How to Control Outdoor Lighting With a Remote

You can control outdoor lights with a remote control.

A remote is a hand-held electronic gadget that can control affiliated devices. You can control the operation of your outdoor lighting by using a remote that's compatible with a control system. Lights need to be connected to the control system and in accordance with particular electrical specifications. Then, its just a matter of making sure your light bulbs are functional and that your remote is fully charged. Some remotes can even control outdoor lighting from 500 feet away.

Instructions

1. Get an appropriate wireless control system that supports remote control functions for lighting. Look for systems that have the function and capacity you're after. Note that some systems can only handle one light and that adding another system nearby can interfere with the remote's signals.

2. Use measurements to help determine where to place equipment. Measure the distances between where you want to plug in the control system box and where the electrical outlets are for the lights that you want to control. Situate all items within range as per manufacturer's recommendations, to ensure equipment will work as designed.

3. Get suitable outdoor lighting to meet your needs. Place spotlights in garden beds, wind strands of small bulb lights (such as those used on Christmas trees), around tree trunks. Position safety lights above garage doors and at blind spots along the perimeter of your house, yard or fencing. String outdoor lights together so they can all turn on and off simultaneously.

4. Read instructions, user manuals or guides that come with your remote lighting system. Browse through the guides to get an overview and re-read confusing or complicated steps to fully understand how to set up the lights with the remote.

5. Plug the main control box into an outlet and then plug the lights into it. Connect electrical cords for individual or serially strung lights. Stay within the allowable range for amps or wattage as prescribed by manufacturer specs.

6. Point at the lights that you want to manage. Use appropriate buttons on your remote and click to turn lights on and off or to adjust dimmer switches. Depending on how your lights are wired, you may be able to control a row or block of lights with one swift maneuver.

Tips & Warnings

• For future planning, know locations of all electrical outlets at your residence.

• Some control systems require a three-prong grounded outlet.

• Alternatively, use software that can help you to control outdoor lighting from a remote.

References

• Controlight Specialties: Easy Installation Instructions