Everything You Need to Know About Landscape Lighting

Is there anything more relaxing than sitting in your backyard on a warm summer night? Imagine the stars are out in full view, the crickets buzz in the distance, and the breeze is perfect. But it feels a bit too dark. You've turned off all the outside lights because their glow blocks out the view of the stars, and your garage spotlight kills the ambiance every time your neighbour's cat runs by. You start dreaming of a new lighting system in your backyard that creates enough light to walk around safely without ruining the ideal Alberta summer night atmosphere. If you want more from your landscape lighting, keep reading for the essential information you need to know before installing a new outdoor lighting system. 

Lighting Options

Outdoor lighting choices are more varied and stylish than you might imagine. There are options for every need, from whole yard illuminating floodlights to decorative recessed lighting that brightens your porch on those nights when you're entertaining friends or family.

Many of our clients aren’t aware of just how many options are available outside those found in your local hardware store’s lighting section. When you're ready for an expert opinion on lighting techniques, installation, and cost, our professional electricians at MMi Electrical are ready to help you begin imagining your yard glowing under the stars.  

Lighting Fixtures and Lighting Design

Landscape lighting is available in many attractive styles suitable for various functions, outdoor settings, and aesthetic tastes. 

Low Voltage Lights

Outdoor lighting typically runs on only 12 volts compared to the regular 120 volts of your indoor system. This lower voltage uses less power which leads to savings on your power bill. It also means that a professional electrician is required to install them, but once your lighting system is set up, the ongoing maintenance is low. 

Low voltage lights can provide sufficient lighting to brighten up just a corner of your yard, an entire pathway, or strategically focus on your gardens. Larger yards require more planning due to the amount of wiring needed to connect the lights. One of our Master Electricians can advise you on which focal points will enhance your backyard space. When your lights are installed, you can also choose to put them on a timer, attach light or motion sensors, or flip a switch to turn them on and off as you desire. 

Solar Lights

Areas of your yard that are far to reach (such as the corners of your backyard or the foot of your driveway) might be better suited to a series of solar lights. The only drawback to a solar light is that it may not shine as brightly as a low voltage one. The quality of the light you purchase will determine how often you need to replace the battery, bulb, or entire fixture. 

Security Lighting

Outdoor lighting is about more than just setting the mood. Many people also like to light their yards for safety and visibility. If you have a dark pathway, driveway, or area of your yard that needs more light, there are several outdoor lighting options to solve that issue.

Flood and Spotlights

Classic flood and spotlights are powerful options that will light up a large section of your outdoor space with the flip of a switch, on a set schedule, or with motion sensor detection. These can be placed along walkways, driveways, or the side of your home to provide consistent visibility in the darkness.  

Pathway Lighting

If you're looking for a lighting solution that looks subtle but still provides visibility, pathway lighting works well to illuminate walkways without flooding the entire space with bright lights. Low voltage lighting is best if you want consistent light all night long or on a reliable sensor, no matter what the weather is that day. Meanwhile, solar lighting may work if your primary need is a soft, decorative glow when enjoying your backyard.

Planning Ahead with a Master Electrician

It requires skill, knowledge, and following essential safety protocols to dig and install electrical systems in backyards. The best way to prepare for landscape lighting installation is to work with a Master Electrician. At MMi Electrical, we'll ensure your outdoor lighting is installed safely and cleanly, with all the proper permits, wiring, and fixtures.

Edmonton Electrician for Outdoor Lighting

Light up your outdoor space with custom-installed landscape lighting. Call MMi Electrical for all your electrical needs. We do installations differently; our in-depth knowledge and high safety standards mean your lights are installed for long-term enjoyment, with your peace of mind being our top priority. Call us today and tell us about your landscape lighting project.