How to Select Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lights provide safety and security, highlight your landscaping and allow you to enjoy your patio or deck in the evening. Learn how to select outdoor lighting in this video by The Home Depot:

There are several power options to consider when choosing outdoor light fixtures:

• Solar powered lights are easy to install and good for areas with no access to electrical power. No wiring is required, however, they must receive 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
• The line voltage option operates at 120 volts and requires an electrical junction box and conduit to protect wires.
• The low voltage option also operates at 120 volts but is energy efficient and easy to install and move; it requires a power pack or transformer, low voltage cable and low voltage outdoor lamps.

The type of lighting you choose will depend its intended purpose:

• Safety and security lighting includes motion sensor activated flood lights along paths, lights on timers, and lights that turn on and off based on levels of sunlight.
• Path lights ensure a safe walk for you and your guests and can illuminate paths from back door to yard or from front yard to back patio.
• Flood lights are very bright lights designed to illuminate a stairway, dark garage or entryway and discourage intruders. They should be positioned at least nine feet from the ground to cast a wider beam of light.
• Landscape lighting highlights the beauty of your home and surrounding landscape. These fixtures include post lights, flush-mounted lights installed in decking, lights mounted on an outdoor wall, spotlights, and up-lights around flowers, shrubs and trees.
• Decorative lighting creates the perfect ambience for a party or romantic evening. These lights may be strung with rope or string or may be post lighting around a patio or pool.