Introducing smart lighting to your garden is one of those unexpected luxuries that you don't fully appreciate until you've taken the plunge. There's a world of difference between casually stringing a few LED lights around the fence and carefully installing the best outdoor lighting system, but don't worry – I'm here to help.
We've already tackled the 7 mistakes everyone makes with smart lighting, and now it's time to bring the findings out into the open. With expert advice from the pros at Lighting Legends and my own well-earned experience, I've compiled a list of the most common missteps people make when setting up smart garden lighting.
Read on to discover these pitfalls and, more importantly, how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring the waterproof rating
It may seem obvious, but one of the most common mistakes is buying lights that are not fully waterproof. Outdoor lights should have an IP65 rating or higher to ensure they are fully waterproof and can withstand the elements all year round. However, they are not yet designed to be completely submerged. Therefore, do not plan to place them in a pond or fountain.
Lower IP ratings such as IP44 or lower are generally intended for indoor use, particularly in areas with minimal dust or water exposure. Most interior lights have protection class IP20, which is completely sufficient for typical residential environments.
Ensuring your outdoor lighting is properly waterproofed will protect your investment but also ensure reliable performance for years to come. So don't overlook this crucial detail.
2. Using the wrong color temperature
Different color temperatures or colors suit certain areas of the garden, so using them incorrectly can cause conflict and affect the overall ambience of the room.
If you want to highlight your plants, paths and seating areas with lights, opt for warm white or colors. I would recommend sticking with cool white for security lighting or water features, but that depends on individual preference.
(Image credit: Signify)
3. You don't choose solar or LED lighting
From experience, a beautifully lit garden can sometimes come with a much higher energy bill. This is why choosing solar and LED lighting is such a smart decision. Not only are they energy efficient, but they also eliminate the need for unsightly cables or nearby sockets.
While it's true that solar-powered lights may be less reliable at certain times of the day or year, quality options are designed to last and perform well even in limited sunlight. If you choose wisely, you can enjoy a stunningly lit garden without any additional cost or hassle.
4. Purchasing inferior equipment
Another common mistake is choosing low-quality lighting fixtures, especially when installing lights in hard-to-reach places. Cheap faucets are prone to wear and tear, which means you'll have to replace them much more often than you'd like.
Investing in durable materials like stainless steel or brass is a game-changer. These high-quality options are built to withstand the elements and last for years, saving you time, effort and money in the long run.
5. Unbalanced lighting
If one area of your garden is lit and the rest is dark, it can cause it to look uneven and unbalanced. If you are lighting one area, such as a seating area, try to incorporate other lighting elements throughout the rest of the garden. You’ll get lots of compliments – we promise!
(Image credit: WiZ)