Installing outdoor lights can add beauty, safety and functionality to your home’s exterior. With some planning and basic electrical skills, you can illuminate walkways, accent landscaping and illuminate other exterior areas. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install outdoor lights.
Determine Your Lighting Needs
The first step is deciding what areas you want to light up and what purpose the lighting will serve. Consider the following:
- Accent lighting – To highlight architectural features, trees or shrubs. Path lighting and spotlights work well for this.
- Security lighting – Bright lighting to illuminate entryways and deter intruders. Motion sensor lights are ideal for security.
- Task lighting – Lighting for specific tasks like gardening, grilling or working on projects. Look for floodlights or LED work lights.
- Ambient lighting – General soft lighting to create overall illumination for entertaining or aesthetics. String lights, lanterns and post lights work for ambient lighting.
Take stock of your home’s exterior and determine which areas could benefit from these different types of lighting. This will help guide your lighting selections.
Choose the Right Fixtures
Once you know your lighting needs, it’s time to pick the fixtures. Consider the following:
- Placement – Determine if the light should be mounted on a wall, post, or ceiling. Will it be attached to the house, ground or a tree?
- Position – Assess if the light should point up, down or be general ambient lighting. This determines the angle and directionality of the light.
- Height – For security lights, mount 8-10 feet high. Accent and task lighting can be lower, around 6 feet from the ground.
- Light output – Measure how much light you need for a space. This is indicated by the lumen output.
- Fixture material – Choose metal, plastic, glass or other materials that fit your style and durability needs.
- Style – Select fixture shapes and designs that coordinate with your home’s architecture and landscaping.
Consult with an outdoor lighting store to select the ideal fixtures for your application. They can assess your needs and help pick products within your budget.
Gather Your Supplies
Before starting the installation, make sure you have the necessary supplies:
- Fixtures and bulbs
- Wiring and wire connectors
- Fasteners (screws, nails, brackets)
- Tools (drill, pliers, screwdriver, hammer, ladder)
- Voltage tester
- Weatherproof junction boxes and conduit
Check that all fixtures and electrical components are rated for exterior use. Purchase quality supplies designed to withstand weather and moisture. This will ensure safe operation and longevity.
Install the Fixtures
With your fixtures and supplies ready, you can now install the outdoor lighting:
Mount the Lighting
First, determine the exact mounting location based on your lighting plan. Use a ladder to access high areas. Attach the fixtures securely using the provided hardware. Make sure lights are oriented in the desired direction.
Connect the Wiring
Run exterior-rated wiring from the fixtures to the nearest outdoor receptacle or junction box. Use conduit to protect the wires. Connect the wires securely using wire nuts or connectors. Check connections are tight and insulated.
Install Bulbs
Once wired, install the recommended bulbs for each fixture. Check wattages and lumen output. LED bulbs work well for longevity and energy efficiency. Follow all precautions when handling bulbs.
Waterproof the Fixtures
Seal any connections or openings in the light fixtures with caulk or weather stripping. This prevents moisture damage. Use exterior-grade boxes and conduit to protect wires.
Test the Lights
Finally, turn on the lights to ensure proper operation. Check for any loose connections or wiring issues. Adjust alignments or angles as needed. Bask in your awesome new outdoor lighting!
Safety Tips
When installing exterior lights, keep these safety guidelines in mind:
- Turn off power at the circuit breaker before starting work
- Use a fiberglass ladder when working with electricity
- Connect to GFCI outlets or breakers to prevent shocks
- Keep all light fixture connectors and wires dry and insulated
- Direct lights away from windows to avoid glare
- Mount metal lights at least 18 inches from combustible surfaces
- Avoid overloading circuits with excessive lighting load
Following basic electrical safety and the fixture manufacturer’s instructions will keep you safe. Consult an electrician if you have any concerns working with wiring.
Maintaining Your Outdoor Lights
Once installed, perform occasional maintenance to maximize the longevity of your lighting:
- Clean fixtures with mild soap and water to improve light output
- Check for loose, frayed or cracked wires and connections
- Verify fixtures are securely mounted and aimed properly
- Replace any burnt out bulbs as soon as possible
- Use plastic covers to protect lights during winter weather
- Inspect sealants and exterior connections for any gaps or leaks
With regular care, your lighting can provide many years of bright, accentuated curb appeal and safety for your home’s exterior areas. You’ll be glad you took the time to properly install outdoor lights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much wire should I have for outdoor light installation?
Use a minimum of 15-20 feet of wire between each light fixture. This provides plenty of length to work with during installation and allows flexibility if you need to relocate the lights later.
What gauge wire should I use for outdoor lighting?
12 or 14 gauge exterior-rated wiring is recommended for most low voltage outdoor lighting circuits. Use a heavier 10 gauge wire for higher wattage lights.
Can I install outdoor lights myself?
Yes, with proper precautions and electrical knowledge, exterior lighting can definitely be a DIY project for a homeowner. Make sure to turn off power, use caution on ladders, and read the fixture instructions carefully.
Do outdoor lights need to be on a GFCI circuit?
Yes, installing outdoor lighting on a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) breaker or outlet provides critical protection from shocks. This safety device can prevent electrocution.
How much does it cost to install outdoor lighting?
The cost can range greatly depending on the number of lights, complexity and type of fixtures used. However, a basic installation with 4-6 fixtures typically costs $200-$800 if handling the work yourself.
What are outdoor lights called?
Common names for exterior lights include security lights, spotlights, step lights, post lights, path lights, string lights, flood lights and lanterns. Fixtures contain various bulb types like LED, incandescent, halogen or CFL.
Conclusion
Installing exterior lighting properly requires planning, ample supplies and basic electrical skills. Determine your needs, select durable fixtures, run wiring safely to boxes, mount the lights securely and test for proper operation. With regular maintenance, your new outdoor lighting can beautifully illuminate your home’s landscape and exterior areas for years to come. So switch on those lights and let your home shine brightly!