LED garden lights are low-voltage, and so can be fitted as a DIY project. Theywork off a mains transformer, which reduces the voltage to (usually) 12V. If someone cuts the cable there is no danger of electrocution and no special protection is needed for the cable.
The fittings are light, adaptable and the bulbs use up to 80% less electricity compared to a halogen or incandescent bulbs. They last up to 12 times longer too, with an average life span of 50,000 hours, so there's little waste.
There are so many types available, you can achieve most effects with them, rather than traditional style units. But some yearly maintenance is essential, with 3 straightforward but important tasks.
- Check that cables are still buried about 6″ in the ground. Erosion will start bringing the wire to the surface, exposing the wire to chewing animals or exploring children or lawnmowers.
- During the the year, fittings will work loose and may start leaning over Rebed them securely, and re-adjust their positions to suit any changes you have made since last year.
- You will often site the lights among bushes, and the bushes will grow. Within a year, the light can be prevented from shining through, and the effect is spoilt. Trim the bushes which are blocking the light, or reposition the lights to shine elsewhere.
You can expect your LED outdoor lighting systems are pretty reliable, and the simple jobs above should ensure they last a long time with few problems.
When considering your outdoor lighting needs, remember that you will always need to use a qualified electrician. The only exeptions are low voltage and solar systems. There are many types of low voltage LED lights to choose from, and you can buy DIY kits, specially designed to make fitting them easy and safe. Do check that you understand the instructions before you buy. With these kits you can achieve both interesting effects and usable light. After you have completed the installation, you will be able to eat, read, entertain or just enjoy the lit garden and really get the most out of this valuable personal space.
The garden should offer quality time with friends and family, a safe and exciting place for kids to play and a place where you can relax and enjoy summer life. By installing garden lighting, the garden can be used in the evening, and with protection from showers and some form of heating, you can extend your use of this extra space into spring and autumn. Gazebos, summer houses and pergolas can all provide shelter, and real fires are a greener alternative to bottle-gas patio heaters, although less easy to light. They look better once lit though!
By installing even simple outdoor lighting, you will gain you a place to entertain, and is fantastic for parties outdoors during the summer months. Get organised early and start your planning now. Then you need not miss those precious early good weather days. You may have ambitious ideas, but some are likely to prove unsuitable for your garden. There is a lot to consider. Paths and steps, plants, trees, ponds, decking and barbecue and lighting for relaxing and eating. For most jobs, you will need to get professional estimates for the structural and wiring installation
Outdoor landscape lighting will dramatically increase the use you can make of your garden, and could add to your home's value. The lighting at the front of your property will make a big difference to your home's curb appeal. And of course, the lighting in your beautifully lit sitting area will create unique atmosphere: one that can only be experienced by sitting out under the stars
When it comes to choosing the right type of light fittings to create the desired lighting effect, there are some simple but effective pointers.
Use uplighters to create depth. A light on the ground, pointed up at a subject is perfect for showcasing a tree, a sculpture or an architectural feature like an arch or arbor. The depth will make the space feel bigger, as well as adding light to previously dark, unused areas.
Path lighting is needed for all but the smallest gardens, to help you and your guests walk around safely at night.Plan carefully to avoid dark spot, or spots where other lights could present a blinding glare. Your guests and any visiting children will be safer if the hazards are highlighted, or eliminated completely.
Landscape lighting can deliver powerful and dramatic results when installed by professionals. The right outdoor lighting bathes your home and yard in a warm glow and enhances your home’s charm and adds to the curb appeal all year long
A well light is used to uplight trees and can also flood the front of your property in a similar way. It iis the most commonly used light in professional landscape lighting. They should resist UV light, and most use a Par-36 bulb, and are very easy to change, which is invaluable for outside bulbs.
Path lights do just what they say, while wash lights are commonly used to light up walls, or for low level landscaping and plants, where they are shone horizontally across the subject to be lit. Most can be tilted to get the look you want. But make sure that they are not shining anywhere it could glare or blind neighbours or even road traffic.
A professional designer will meet you at your home to discuss your lighting needs and provide you with both plans and costings. Check whether previous clients have been satisfied, and how established the company is, as any guarantee offered is only as strong as the business providing it.
