Installing outdoor lighting can really enhance the look and feel of your home's exterior. However, hiring an electrician to do the work can be very expensive. I have wired several outdoor lighting projects on my own over the years and have learned how to do it safely and effectively while saving a lot of money.
Safety Considerations When Wiring Outdoor Lighting Yourself
When taking on an outdoor lighting wiring project, following proper safety procedures is crucial. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
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Turn off the power - Make sure to turn off the circuit breaker for the outdoor lighting circuit before doing any work. Verify power is off by testing with a non-contact voltage tester.
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Use GFCI protection - Outdoor lighting circuits require GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) protection. Install a GFCI outlet or breaker for the circuit. This will shut off power if a ground fault occurs.
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Waterproof all connections - Since outdoor lights are exposed to the elements, all wire connections must be waterproofed. Enclose splices in waterproof junction boxes and use silicone caulk around openings.
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Bury wiring at proper depth - When burying low-voltage landscape lighting wire, place it at a depth of 6 to 8 inches to avoid damage from digging or aerating.
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Call 811 before digging - Dial 811 a few days before digging trenches to have underground utility lines marked so you avoid severing one.
Following basic electrical safety guidelines is the best way to avoid injuries or damage when taking on an outdoor lighting wiring project.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Lighting Fixtures
When wiring your own outdoor lighting, you first need to decide on the types of fixtures and locations. Here are some popular outdoor lighting options to consider:
Pathway Lights
Pathway lights are small, low-wattage fixtures designed to illuminate walking paths and driveways. Choose LED or solar-powered versions for efficiency. Space them every 5-10 feet along the sides of the path.
Step Lights
Step lights accent steps and pathways. They install flush with the vertical riser on steps. Opt for LED or solar-powered models. Place them about 5-10 inches apart along the steps.
Accent Lights
Accent lights highlight architectural or landscaping features. Use spotlights or floodlights on the home exterior, in trees, or focused on landscape elements.
Post Lights
Post lights mount on top of freestanding light posts along a driveway or walkway. They light a general area. Space posts 10-15 feet apart.
Deck Lights
Deck lights illuminate a deck or patio area. Choose low-voltage fixtures or solar-powered versions. Install them on deck posts or rails.
In-Ground Well Lights
In-ground well lights create dramatic illumination. Recess them in the ground alongside a pathway or around landscaping.
Choosing energy efficient LED or solar powered fixtures can reduce energy costs for outdoor lighting. Place lights strategically to provide both safety and ambiance.
Basic Techniques for Wiring Outdoor Lighting Yourself
When taking on an outdoor lighting wiring project, here are some key installation techniques to follow:
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Run wiring inside conduit - For safety and protection, run wiring inside plastic or metal conduit. Conduit buried underground must be rated for wet locations.
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Make waterproof splices - Any wire connections must be made inside waterproof junction boxes or using sealing splice connectors.
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Install a junction box - Include an outdoor-rated junction box where the low-voltage outdoor lighting wires connect to the 120V power source.
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Use proper wire - Use 12 or 14 gauge exterior lighting wire for connecting lights. Use UF or direct burial wire for underground runs.
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Follow code for depth - Bury conduit and wiring at least 6 inches for straight runs and 12 inches for wires under driveways.
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Secure wires properly - Use wire staples or plastic wire hangers when running wiring along walls and ceilings. Don't pull wires taut.
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Label wire connections - Use colored tape and permanent markers to label wire junctions. This makes troubleshooting easier.
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Test lights - Verify proper operation of all lighting fixtures before finishing all conduit and junction boxes.
Following basic wiring best practices helps ensure that your DIY outdoor lighting project is safe and successful.
Cost Savings from Doing It Yourself
By taking on an outdoor lighting project yourself instead of hiring an electrician, you can realize major cost savings. Here are some examples:
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A typical path lighting installation might cost $1,500 from an electrician, but only $700 DIY.
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Deck lighting for a 15' x 20' deck could be $850 from a pro but under $400 doing it yourself.
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An electrician might charge $2,000 to install accent lighting on your home and landscaping while a DIY budget would be around $800.
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Driveway post light installation from an electrician could be $1,800 but you can do it for $600 or less.
The DIY savings add up quickly. And outdoor lighting increases your home's value, so it's an investment as well. Doing the work yourself allows you to put more money into fixtures and features rather than labor.
Helpful Tips for Your Project
Here are some additional pointers to help your outdoor lighting project go smoothly:
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Shop sales and clearance for deals on fixtures and wiring supplies. Buying in bulk saves money too.
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Rent a trencher to make digging trenches for conduit much easier.
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Start small if it's your first project. Do path lighting or install a post light as a test run.
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Buy a good headlamp for working in dim areas. Outdoor work lights are also helpful.
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Have a helper hold the spool when running wiring lengths over 50 feet.
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Watch online wiring tutorials if you need guidance on proper techniques.
With careful planning, safety awareness, and attention to details, you can successfully wire up beautiful and functional outdoor lighting on your own. The effort is well worth it considering the dramatic upgrades to your home's exterior ambiance and the big cost savings by avoiding hiring an electrician. Your custom lighting design will enhance your property for years to come.