When considering outdoor accent lighting, one of the key things to consider is safety. While cost and benefits are being weighed, you might want to look into solar power lighting to reduce installation costs while improving safety.
Low voltage lamps have been a big hit with many homeowners when they install accent lights, the project has often deterred many from using them. A power transformer is typically installed near the lights, with a power cord run to each and every lamp. The cord usually is buried under ground to improve appearance, but if the installation is not done properly, there is a risk of it being damaged by the weather.
Additionally, accent lights installed a distance from the source may cause them to lose intensity the further they are from the house. Add to that the fact that most transformers can only provide power to a limited number of lamps; you are restricted in the number of lights that can be installed.
As far as safety is concerned, children and small pets can be exposed to the wiring and, although most outdoor accent lighting operates on 12-Volt direct current, they can still provide a slight shock if mishandled.
Solar lighting has come a long way in the past few years with many companies supplying outdoor accent lights that can be installed quick and easy, with the only restriction being placed in an area flooded with sunlight throughout the day. Most contain a small battery charged during the day with enough power to keep the lamp illuminated throughout the evening.
There are no wires to run and no transformer to be installed, eliminating the daily cost of operating the lights. They can also be installed at greater distances from the home without the potential for losing power to the individual lights. They will all remain as bright as they are designed; regardless of how many are installed, enabling you to install them at greater lengths than those operated by electricity.
Without wiring, solar lights are considerably safer than electric powered lights as there is nothing for small animals to bite into while playing and children remain safe from any potential shock.
Installation is also quicker and easier as there are no wires to be extended, making them ideal for stairways or in areas prone to exposure to moisture. Steps to decks and swimming pools can be illuminated by solar accent lights without extensive construction changes, making them an ideal solution to outdoor accent lights.
For areas located out of the sun, under bushes or trees for example, the solar cells can be placed in the sun with a small wire extended to the light itself. This allows them to be used in virtually any type of landscape environment.
With the installation of solar power accent lights being much easier and without the cost of electricity, more people are turning to their use for their accent lighting. Typically, they are designed to come on at night and turn off once the sun comes up, making them an ideal addition to the accent of any landscaping project.
