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How to Install Outdoor Lights
When it comes to installing outdoor lights, you may be wondering how to go about the task. There are various types of outdoor lights available. For example, you can choose Solar-powered lights or Plugged-in lights. There are also Bullet-shaped and Well-shaped lights. Listed below are the steps involved in installing each type.
Solar-powered lights
If you’re planning on installing solar-powered outdoor lights in your yard, there are a few tips to keep in mind. For starters, you’ll need to make sure your solar-powered outdoor lights get enough sunlight to charge properly. It’s also a good idea to place your new lights in a sunny location, so that the light will stay lit throughout the day and night. Also, keep in mind that solar lights need some time in the sun to charge, so it’s a good idea to install them in a flat, smooth area.
Regardless of the type of outdoor lighting system you choose, it’s important to consider the square footage of your space when choosing the right type of lights. You’ll want to choose solar-powered outdoor lights that can reach areas where traditional lights cannot. For example, if you have a swimming pool, you can use solar-powered lights to create a welcoming atmosphere. These lights are usually water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged.
Another benefit of solar-powered outdoor lights is that they don’t need an external power source, which allows you to install them anywhere. They also require no wiring or maintenance and can last for several years before they wear out. Plus, unlike electrical lights, you won’t have to worry about installing them yourself if you don’t have the expertise or experience.
Another advantage of solar-powered outdoor lights is that they’re environmentally friendly. They don’t require wiring, and they don’t produce any CO2 emissions. There’s also no need to replace batteries, and they don’t add to your utility bills. Once installed, your solar-powered lights will work automatically for you.
Plugged-in lights
Outdoor lights need to be connected to a power source for proper function. If you do not have the electrical outlet handy, you can use an extension cord to connect the fixture to a receptacle. First, measure the distance from the male end of the extension cord to the female end and cut it with enough slack to reach the receptacle. After cutting the cord, strip the insulation off the cut end and the inner wires.
Another option is to install outdoor plug-in switches. These are weather-proof and offer convenient on/off control for outdoor lights and other devices. They can also control decorative inflatables and pumps. These devices also come with the Lutron App, which lets you adjust and schedule the lights from a remote location. Pico Wireless Remotes are also an option and allow you to control several devices at the same time.
Bullet-shaped lights
Bullet-shaped outdoor lights are a great way to add accent lighting and directional lighting to your landscape. These small fixtures can be installed on trees, fences, and other structures. They can also be used as spotlights to highlight certain architectural features. There are many types of bullet lights, including LED and traditional bulbs.
Bullet-shaped outdoor lights have adjustable heads that can be aimed upward or downward. They’re also good for highlighting architectural features, like deep eaves and dormers. A single, downward-facing bullet light may be installed at a few feet away, but an upward-facing light can illuminate a full 50-foot tree. You should also consider placing softer wash lights between bullet lights to emphasize the textures of the landscape.
Bullet-shaped accent lights are an effective way to illuminate the front yard, such as a water feature. They also create an inviting ambiance. If you’re unsure of how to install these lights, you can consult a professional for assistance. You can also buy bullet-shaped spotlights in a variety of sizes, including MR11 and MR16.
Well-shaped outdoor lights cast a wider beam than bullet lights and can be partially buried in the ground. They’re a great option for landscape lighting and flood lighting. They cast a wide beam and can highlight the texture of the surrounding landscape. However, if you want to avoid using a flood light, bullet lights are an excellent option.
Well lights
Before installing well lights, make sure that the area is not overly wet. Excessive heat can cause the wiring or bulb to break, drastically reducing the light’s lifespan. If the well is wet or the ground is not dry enough to handle water, you may have to replace the fixture or buy a new one. Fortunately, many well lights are IP68 rated, and can safely be installed in wet locations.
If you want to hide the wiring, consider planting flower pots over the well lights. This way, the wiring won’t be visible and watering the plants won’t damage the bulbs. Hardscaped areas typically feature drainage systems to channel water away from the yard. In addition, wiring can be run within six feet of lighting fixtures.
Before installing well lights, consider which parts of your landscape you want to light and how much light you want to add. Choose a wide beam of light for large details in your yard, while a narrow beam of light is best for smaller details. Also, consider the overall theme of your yard. For example, if you want a magical effect created around a water feature, you may want to install well lights that illuminate the surrounding area.
If you are using a well light, you should consider installing one made of LED. Some LED lights are even designed to be flush with the ground. For example, the Brass Bully Integrated LED Well Light is designed to be installed flush with the ground. The LED bulb in this fixture produces a beam of warm white light with soft edges. This type of light is also compatible with the Brass Bully Well Light.
Underground wiring
Underground wiring for outdoor lights can be done in a number of ways. One way is to use a low voltage cable for garden or pathway lighting. This type of wiring is easy to install and may require basic electrical skills. If you want to install more complicated wiring, you should hire an electrician. These professionals can dig a trench and run a thicker cable. Before installing outdoor lighting underground, make sure you check local code and risk factors.
If underground wiring for outdoor lights is desired, use UL-approved materials. Underground cables must have a grounding conductor. For outdoor fixtures, use conduit or other methods to cover the exposed cable. Make sure to ground the outdoor fixtures properly, as local codes may require that the entire cable be covered.
Underground wiring for outdoor lights can also be used for solar lights. These solar-powered lights charge throughout the day. Whether solar-powered or regular, you’ll need to use the right type of cable for the application. You should also make sure to ground the box where the wiring is running. This way, you can make sure the wiring will not cause a fire. Finally, you must install a weatherproof outlet box, if you wish to install an outdoor lighting fixture in your home.
Underground wiring can be a DIY project if you have some basic electrical skills. Or, you can hire a professional to install the wiring. The Home Depot sells tools for this purpose, or you can also find an electrical wiring installation company.
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