How to Set Up Outdoor Landscape Lighting
Landscape lighting is a bright idea sure to add a whole new dimension to your property. Versatile and economical, landscape lighting is a safe and easy do-it-yourself project to set up. Lights vary in style and function, including path lights, spotlights, stair lights and deck lights. Choose lights or a combination of lights depending on need, home style and existing landscape features. For accent and decorative effect, choose solar lights that install in a snap and require no wiring. For home safety and brighter lights, use low-voltage, wired lighting that requires a grounded electrical outlet. Many homeowners use a combination of solar and low-voltage lighting. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Flashlight
- Light kit, including light fixtures, power cord and connector caps
- Solar light batteries
- 4- by 4-inch post, 2 feet long
- Shovel
- Transformer (larger than what is needed for expansion, and with built-in photocell and timer)
- Drill and drill bit
- Wood screws
- Screwdriver
- Utility knife
- Spade
- Rake
- Weatherproof cover for electrical outlet (optional)
Instructions
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Construct a site map, recording accurate measurements of the area where the lights will be installed. Mark all underground utilities and existing landscape features. Select landscape elements to highlight, including trees, water features, stairs or walking paths. Keep in mind areas where the lighting cord will not be damaged by weed eaters or mowers. Consider proximity to a grounded electrical outlet. Walk around the yard at night, using a flashlight with spot and floodlight settings to mimic landscape lighting. Ensure that the lighting placement will give the desired effect without over-lighting.
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Unpack the contents of the light kit and arrange the kit pieces by type. Assemble the light fixtures per the manufacturer's instructions.
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Position the fixtures in locations marked on the site map. Stretch the power cord out beside the lights, leaving extra slack in the cord for movement after installation.
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4
Locate the best place for the transformer post, in close proximity the grounded electrical outlet. Dig a hole and install the 4- by 4-inch post into the ground. Mount the transformer using a drill and wood screws, according to manufacturer's instructions. Angle the photocell slightly west so that the lights do not turn on too early.
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Connect the landscape lights to the electrical cable using connector caps that are included in the light kit. Use a screwdriver to open the connector caps. Puncture the cable with the cap so that it makes contact with the wire. Screw the connector cap closed around the wire.
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Use a spade to make a slit in the ground for the lighting cable at least 6 inches deep. Push the cable into the slit.
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Push the light fixtures halfway into the ground to mark installation location.
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Follow the manufacturer's instructions to install the lighting cable to the transformer. Strip the insulation off of the cord with a utility knife, as needed, to expose the wires for contact.
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Plug the transformer into the grounded outlet. Check all lights to see if they are working. If a light is not working, check the light assembly and connection to the power cord. Adjust all lights for desired effect. Push light fixtures down at least 3 inches into the ground for stability. Bury the electrical cord, raking the dirt over, and set the timer on the transformer. Check all lights again when the sun goes down to be sure they are in the proper location.
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Tips & Warnings
Connect additional cable for more lighting projects.
Unplug the electrical cord before opening lighting fixture connections.
Call 811 and have someone come and mark all underground utilities before starting a landscape lighting project.
Replace a regular outlet cover with a weatherproof cover.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
