Over time, landscape lighting systems can develop problems like loose wiring connections, bulbs that burn out or fixtures that become broken. In some cases, it may be better to invest in a new landscape lighting system rather than trying to fix an older one.
The following are some signs that it’s time to call a landscaping lighting professional for a repair. Contact Elegant Custom Images Inc for professional help.
Landscape lighting is a wonderful way to enhance your outdoor living spaces, but over time fixtures can become damaged. These problems must be addressed as soon as possible to avoid a loss of function and beauty. This is why it’s important to have the right electrician handle any repairs and maintenance.
One of the most common issues is a light bulb that has burned out. Simply replacing the old bulb with a new one will restore the proper brightness and function to the fixture. This can be done by turning off the power and removing the existing bulb, then screwing in a new one. Be sure to use a bulb that is the correct size and wattage for the fixture.
Moisture in the fixtures is another problem that can cause poor performance. High quality, professional grade fixtures that are copper or brass will withstand moisture exposure, but low quality aluminum fixtures can corrode and eventually break down. The problem is usually caused by a broken seal that allows water to get inside the fixture.
The direct burial wire that powers your landscape lighting system can become damaged due to weather, pests, or improper installation. This can lead to a number of problems, including frayed or exposed wires and circuit breaker issues. These problems can be dangerous and should always be repaired by a licensed electrician.
Overgrown plants and bushes can interfere with the proper functioning of your landscape lighting system. Lights that are blocked by bushes or trees can’t shine where they need to, which can lead to dimming and unsightly shadows. This can also cause the lighting design to look inconsistent and unbalanced.
Loose connections are another common issue that can cause problems with your landscape lighting. These are often caused by vibrations or temperature fluctuations, but can be easily fixed by tightening the connection. This should be done by a licensed electrician to prevent damage to the wiring and safety hazards.
Lighting technology has come a long way in recent years, and if your fixture is over 15 years old you may be better off replacing it with a more modern and efficient version. Even if your current lights are working correctly, it’s worth the investment to upgrade your system to improve performance and aesthetics.
Wiring
Many landscape lighting repair jobs involve fixing a faulty socket or a wire connection. If your system is older, it may be best to replace your landscape lights rather than repairing them. Outdoor lighting has come a long way in recent years and your old bulbs or fixtures might just not be up to the task.
If you notice that a single fixture has stopped working, try replacing the light bulb first. If it still doesn’t work, you might have a bad socket or a broken wire connection that isn’t easy to identify without special tools or knowledge of safe electrical repair procedures.
Another common problem is a short in the system that causes the lights to go out. These are typically caused by improper installation, using the wrong outdoor connection system, a cut wire that has been tripped over and over again by irrigation, rain or snow, and places where the wire is stretched across roots and rocks.
If your lights are constantly tripping, this can be a sign of a poor grounding connection to the transformer or the main line coming from your home. In this case, you will need to call in a professional for help.
One of the easiest and cheapest ways to fix a light that keeps going out is by rewiring the socket. You can do this yourself by stripping back the insulation on both conductors in the 10-gauge main wire that runs to your lights (the cable has 2 wires just like a lamp cord, so you will have 4 loose ends when you are done). Then, connect each of those 4 wires to the appropriate terminals in the transformer. You can then test your lights to see if they are functioning properly.
There are a lot of things that can go wrong with landscape lighting, but these problems can be fixed if you know what to look for and when it is time to call in the professionals. Remember that a poorly designed/engineered system will continue to have problems even after you make the repairs that are needed.
Electrical Issues
A landscape lighting system is a complex electrical device. As such, problems with the system often involve multiple components. In many cases, the solution is a targeted one rather than a general fix. This can be due to a wide range of issues, such as bulbs burning out, wiring and transformer malfunctions, or timer and fixture problems. When homeowners master the basics of troubleshooting landscape lighting, they can address these problems effectively and restore the brilliance to their outdoor spaces.
The first step in troubleshooting is to check whether the lights are coming on at all. If the breaker is constantly tripping, it’s likely a sign that there is a problem with the wiring. This can be caused by corrosion, tripping during storms or even by a bad connection between the wire and the fixture.
Corrosion is often the result of a poorly designed/engineered fixture. A faulty design allows water to get inside the fixture and cause a short in the socket. This will not only ruin the light, but it can also damage the wiring in the circuit. It is important to replace these fixtures when they are found to be defective.
In addition, wiring problems are common in landscape lighting systems. The voltage output is a key component in the operation of any lighting fixture. It is therefore critical that the wires in the system are properly installed, with no signs of frayed or exposed wires. This process involves using a multimeter to check the voltage at various points in the system, and meticulous inspection of all wires for any damage or signs of wear.
If the wires are damaged, a professional electrician should be called to replace them. It is also essential that homeowners use quality wire in their lighting systems, which is specifically designed to resist the harsh conditions in outdoor environments. This type of wire is typically tin-coated, making it resistant to corrosion and capable of surviving exposure to moisture.
Flickering or inconsistent lighting is another frequent landscape lighting issue that can be caused by the bulb, transformer, or wiring. These issues can be difficult to identify, but addressing them promptly can allow homeowners to enjoy the brilliance of their outdoor spaces without stress.
Repairs
Imagine hosting an evening garden party when one or more of your landscape lighting fixtures suddenly stop working, leaving your yard in darkness. Fortunately, with proper care and routine inspections, landscape lighting repair is usually minimal and can be done by you or your DIY handyman. But first, it’s important to understand what can go wrong with your landscape lighting system.
Lights That Flicker
A flickering light is often caused by a loose connection or a bad bulb. If you notice your lights are starting to flicker, it’s time to have them replaced with the right bulbs. It’s also a good idea to consult with a lighting professional to ensure your new bulbs are the best match for your current system, considering your fixture type and brightness requirements.
Moisture Issues
If your landscape lights are leaking, this is a sure sign it’s time to replace the fixture. Leaking fixtures can cause moisture to build up inside, which will damage internal components and lead to premature failure. This is particularly common in LED fixtures, where the internal components need to remain dry to function properly.
When installing a new fixture, it’s a good idea to use a waterproof seal on all wiring connections to prevent moisture from entering and damaging the internal components. Using silicone caulk around each wire connection is a simple and effective way to protect these areas.
Wiring Issues
Because landscape lighting systems are outside, they are vulnerable to many different hazards and accidents that can lead to problems, such as children digging in the wrong place cutting a wire, severe storms knocking down fixtures or wiring, or people simply tripping over cords. It’s a great idea to get into the habit of turning off the power to your landscape lighting system before beginning any electrical work, either by unplugging the transformer or flipping the breaker in your fuse box.
Keeping your landscape lighting in working condition will help to enhance the beauty of your home, deter intruders, and increase safety and security. Regular maintenance and the right kind of care will extend your lighting system’s lifespan and help you to enjoy it for years to come.