How to Install Landscape Flood Lights

Beautiful landscaping can be found in many different neighborhoods. After the sun goes down, however, a few landscapes begin to stand out from all of the rest with pinpoint accent lighting that brings the landscape back to life. With the proper planning and well-positioned flood lights, you can show off the intricacies of your landscape and become the talk of the neighborhood. Besides looking great, you get the benefits of added safety with well-lit walkways and security.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Notepad
• Pencil
• Measuring tape
• Flood lights
• Stakes or other mounting equipment
• Transformer
• Wire

1. Draw a diagram of the landscape area you want to highlight with the flood lights.
2. Decide on the kinds of lighting effects you want to create to help determine the position the lights will need to be in to create these effects. Draw the light positions on the diagram.
3. Add lines to the diagram representing the wiring you will install. The wire will start at an outdoor electrical outlet and may have to work around or under objects on the property.
4. Use measuring tape to measure out how much cable you will need to install. Purchase slightly more cable than the numbers you figure on the diagram.
5. Turn off all electricity to the outlets you work with to avoid potential injuries.
6. Lay out the flood lights according to the diagram.
7. Place the transformer(s) at least 12 inches off the ground on a post or wall and plug them into the electrical outlets.
8. Attach the power cable to the transformer and run the cable to the flood lights.
9. Connect the flood lights to the power supply and mount the flood lights in their proper positions. Leave enough slack in the wire to hide or bury the wire.
10. Turn the power back on and test the flood lights to make sure everything works.
11. Turn the power off and hide or bury the power cable.
12. Adjust the lights in the evening to make sure you have created the desired effects.

Tips & Warnings

• Install motion-sensitive flood lights at outdoor entryways as an added measure of security.
• Wattage determines how bright the flood lights will be and how many lights you can attach to a wire. With a 300-watt transformer and wire, attach approximately 250 watts by adding up the total wattage on the bulbs you will use.
• Don't bury the wire until you have made sure all of the flood lights are working properly.
• You must call 811 to get the underground wiring located and marked around your house by the utility company. Utilities would much rather mark your yard before the project than repair problems caused during the project.

Who Can Help:

• Find Awning Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Deck & Porch Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Contractors Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.