Landscape lighting
Lighting up the garden around a home not only provides a wonderful atmosphere for summer entertaining, it also serves to provide additional security, reduce the number of accidents in a night garden, and even increase the value of a home.
There are various type of landscaping and garden lighting with varying energy efficiency, but the following are the most commonly used:
Garden illumination
LED Garden Lights are energy efficient. According to www.electroniclights.co.za the lighting efficiency of the new high power led light bulbs is nearly eight times that of incandescent lights, and twice as high as compact fluorescent lights. Led bulbs also emit a much higher percentage of light in the desired direction and all of the light output from led bulbs can be a specific colour.
Decks and Paths
Low-Voltage halogen lights are brighter than LED but use more electricity. They’re best used for accent lighting around the deck area, and they also have transformers to convert power to 12 volts.
Solar powered lighting
Solar lights have rechargeable batteries powered by small built-in solar panels and need to be placed in a spot where they can charge during daytime. They’re inexpensive to run, with the occasional battery replacement needed, but definitely aren’t as bright as other types of garden lighting. This type of light is used mostly for lighting pathways. walkways around the pool and stepped areas.
Halogen lighting
240-Volt Halogen lights are the most powerful lights that you will need for outdoor lighting. Used for tennis courts, courtyards and good for lighting trees, these lights require installation by a qualified electrician and consume the most electricity, so consider using with a timer for energy efficiency. Position halogen lights away for direct line of sight to avoid glare, or diffuse light with foliage.
Dining under the Stars
Extend the outdoor dining and entertainment area with lights for function and ambience. Always check if the lights are suited to outdoor use. Position matching downlights under the eaves for even light distribution onto the deck, and drape LED fairy lights along tree branches for year-round entertaining.
Accent Lighting adds texture and a decorative element. Highlight planters or position lights for dramatic effect with shadows. Connect outdoor lights to automatic sunset timers that sense dusk and dawn to operate more efficiently.
When considering landscape lighting, ensure that you think of safety first. Consider speaking with a professional to help you design what you would like your garden to look like. Consider as well using energy efficient landscape lighting such as solar or low voltage. Landscape lighting can add beauty and charm to a home when it is done properly and safely.
via goss electrical