Installing lighting and power in your backyard can take your entertaining space to the next level. However, electrical work can get expensive quickly. It's important to plan ahead and make strategic wiring decisions to avoid going over budget. You also need to be mindful of your neighbors when running wires and installing fixtures. Follow these tips to illuminate your yard tastefully without burning through your savings or sparking feuds with the folks next door.
Research Local Building Codes and Permit Requirements
The first step is understanding the legal requirements for electrical work on your property. Building codes and permit rules vary by jurisdiction, so check with your local permitting office to learn what you'll need to do. Generally, you'll need a permit if you're running new wires or installing additional circuits and boxes. Knowing the rules upfront prevents headaches down the road.
Map Out Your Electrical Plan
Sketch out ideas for where you want lighting, speakers, outlets, and other electrical features. Consider how you'll use the space for entertaining and how wiring can be inconspicuous yet functional. Think about:
- Pathway lighting - Illuminate walking paths and stairs
- Task lighting - Brighten food prep areas and sinks
- Ambient lighting - Set a mood with strings of Edison bulbs
- Accent lighting - Highlight plants, sculptures, or architectural features
- Speaker wiring - Enable music across the yard
- Outlets - Allow use of sound systems, appliances, tools
- Low voltage lighting - Outline surfaces without trenching
Also factor where power sources are located and how wiring can unobtrusively route to your additions.
Choose Low Voltage Lighting Options When Possible
Low voltage lighting runs on 12 or 24 volts, unlike the 120 volts standard in households. These systems use less energy, produce less heat, and minimize the risk of electrocution when installing near water sources. Low voltage lights also don't require junction boxes. LED lighting is an efficient, long-lasting low voltage option. Opt for low voltage fixtures whenever practical.
Install New Wiring Properly
When running new wiring, bury cables at least 18 inches underground and use exterior-rated, jacketed cables. Avoid shallow trenches that could damage wires or pose tripping hazards. If you don't want to dig trenches, look into low voltage landscape lighting you can install at grade. Use weatherproof boxes for any connections, and have GFCI protected outlets near water sources. Follow code for proper wire sizing and connections. Hire an electrician if you're uncomfortable doing the work yourself.
Be Mindful of Existing Electrical Systems
Take inventory of where your main electrical panel, existing lighting circuits, and supply lines route underground. Look for ways to tap into these as power sources instead of a complete overhaul. You can likely add new low voltage wiring and lights without altering primary electrical infrastructure. Strategically using existing circuits minimizes costs and permits needed.
Notify Neighbors Before Major Work
Living near others means being considerate with backyard renovations. Provide advance notice to neighbors if you'll be doing extensive digging or electrical work that could affect them. Be clear on when the work will happen and how long it will take. Offer to answer any questions. Consider asking if they have any lines running on shared property lines to avoid accidental damage. Good communication prevents bad blood down the road.
Let Landscaping Hide Wires
Bury wiring underground whenever possible, and use landscaping to further disguise electrical additions. Shrubs, flower beds, and hardscaping are great for concealing junction boxes and transformers. Also, choose lights with subtle, integrated designs versus obvious fixtures. With thoughtful placement and natural screening, your neighbors won't even notice your new electrical features.
Test Everything Before the Party Starts
After finishing the work, thoroughly test all wiring and lighting to catch any problems. Check that:
- All connections are secure with no exposed conductors
- Lighting fixtures work as intended with no shorts or faults
- GFCI outlets trip properly when tested
- Voltage readings are correct everywhere
- Everything is in compliance with electrical codes
Confirm your additions function properly and safely before the first event. Finding issues once guests arrive can be both dangerous and embarrassing.
Consider Hiring a Professional
Depending on the complexity of the job, hiring an electrician may ultimately save money and give you peace of mind. Professionals ensure proper materials and procedures are used. They can also handle both high and low voltage systems seamlessly. For large backyard wiring projects, electrical contractors are worth the investment.
With strategic planning and care for your neighbors, you can install elegant, functional lighting to take your entertaining space to the next level. Follow safety codes, use unobtrusive low voltage fixtures, communicate with neighbors, and hide wires effectively. By budgeting wisely and avoiding conflicts, you'll have a backyard oasis ready for memorable evenings with family and friends.