Are you looking for a way to improve your outdoor space? One of the easiest ways to improve your landscape is through landscape lighting installation. Installing outdoor lights will not only improve security and safety on your landscape but will also enhance many of its features such as trees, fountains, bushes and walkways. Extend your outdoor enjoyment into the night with outdoor lighting, allowing you to sit and relish the outdoors well into the evening. Below we provide a step by step guide for outdoor lighting installation to help you create a welcoming, secure and functional outdoor space.
Deciding on The Type of Landscape Lighting To Install
Before diving into how to install landscape lighting, it is important to determine what type of lights you want for your space. There are three main types of landscape lighting available. Each type has a different method of installation:
Solar landscape lights – these lights are powered by photovoltaic cells that are charged by the sun. Installing these lights is relatively simple as they do not require wiring.
Line voltage landscape lights – These lights operate at 120 volts. This is the same voltage as your home appliances. Installing these requires a licensed electrician due to the complexity of the system.
Low voltage landscape lights – these operate at 12 volts. A transformer lowers regular voltage to 12 volts. These systems are energy efficient and easier to install than for line voltage landscape lights.
Installing Solar Landscape Lighting
Installing outdoor lighting powered by the sun is easy and convenient. You should however, consult with the manufacturer’s instructions for specific installation instructions. Below is a general guide for the installation of these types of landscape lights.
Determine the Layout
Determine how the lights will be laid out before installation. Use a tape measure to determine spacing. Lights should be spaced at no more than 6 inches from the edge of the path. You can check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific spacing requirements.
Install the lights
Assemble the lights according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If installing in an area without full sun, be sure to expose the lights to full sun for at least 12 hours prior to installing them. Soak the ground with water to soften the soil and drive the stakes into the ground. Ensure they are plumb.
Installing Low Voltage Lighting
Wire the Transformer
These types of lights require a transformer to achieve a lower landscape lighting voltage of about 12 volts. This makes the system relatively safe to work with. Install the transformer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not plug in the transformer before installing the lights.
Install the lights
Assemble the lights according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Decide on the layout of the lights and measure for even spacing. Drive the stakes into the ground and ensure they are plumb. Run the cable from the transformer along the path where you have installed your fixtures.
Connect the Lights
Make the electrical connection between the lights and the cable. Be sure that there is at least 18 inches of slack in the cable at each fixture to allow for moving and adjusting the fixtures later if needed. Once connected, wrap the connector with electrical tape to keep it watertight. Plug the transformer in and turn on the system to see how well it works.
Bury the Cable
Dig a trench along the cable path and bury the cable in it.
Set the Timer
Set the timer to turn the system on and off.
Installing Line Voltage Landscape Lighting
This exterior lighting installation project may require you to obtain an electrical permit from the local building department. You may also have to have it inspected. It is therefore best to have these lights installed by a professional electrician.
Prepare for Installation
Decide where you will locate the lights and the switch.
Install the Electrical Cable and UF Cable
For safety, an underground feeder (UF) cable is recommended for outdoor lights. Dig a trench of not less than 18 inches in depth. Run your cable along the trench to the wall of your home. Drill a hole in the wall and pull the cable through the wall.
Wire the Light Fixture and Switch
Turn off the mains in your home and wire the light fixture as per the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Wire the light switch and connect the cable to the GFCI circuit breaker.
Test Your Light and Have the System Inspected
Turn the power back on and test the light switch. You should have your system inspected by an electrical inspector before burying the cable.
Consultation with a Landscape Designer
Want to transform your outdoor space? Contact GMC Landscapes for professional outdoor lighting installation in Seattle.
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