Outdoor Lighting Tips

Australians love their backyards and you can turn yours into a stunning showpiece with the right choice of outdoor lighting. Whether it’s a small courtyard, balcony or rambling expanse of green, you can create an enchanting oasis at home.

Consider using LED lights as they last 30 times longer than a standard globe and are great for areas where lights are left on for long periods of time.

If you live in a coastal location, we recommend you purchase outdoor lighting that is either 316 marine grade stainless steel, aluminium, or polycarbonate, to increase its resistance to the elements and durability. But remember, even if you do buy stainless steel , the fitting will still require maintenance every three months in the form of cleaning and treating with a neutral oil.

Importantly, don’t overdo it. Less is more. Shadows can work really well to define areas and the contrast between light and dark adds a much more dramatic effect than a floodlit area.

Beacon has a new range of Envirolux LED energy saving DIY garden lighting - no electrician required! View video for how to install

Benefits and tips for outdoor lighting

Security: Adequate exterior lighting deters thieves and can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Install flush lighting fixtures on your deck or patio to increase safety and security when walking around after dark. 

Welcoming: Direct and welcome visitors to your hom with path lights along the walkway. Avoid installing path lights on both sides of the path to avoid creating an airplane landing strip effect. Position at the beginning of the walkway and near individual steps or stairs for best visibility. For a feature on the outside of your home, consider traditional coach lights either side of the door to add that homely touch.

Outdoor entertaining: Create a stunning entertaining setting with feature lighting in different areas of your outdoors. Be sure to conceal any light source by tucking the fittings behind a bush, branch or rock. Spotlights highlight garden features such as trees, statues or waterfalls and are especially effective when directed from the ground upwards. Be sure the beam does not create any glare you can see.

Design a feature: Flood lighting is fantastic for highlighting your house or, for a more dramatic look, position on large trees to illuminate the outdoor area.

What is an IP Rating?

IP rating is an international method used to describe the protection of a fitting to stop the penetration of solid objects or water entering the light fitting. IP ratings on exterior lights are represented by a 2 digit number.

The first digit defines the level of protection against penetration of solid objects, like dust.

The second digit defines the level of protection against penetration of water into the housing. The higher the number, the better the protection.

Safety and caring for outdoor lighting

• Never use indoor lights for outdoor applications
• Clean exposed outdoor bulbs every 3 months to remove any dirt and pollen. If bulbs are dirty the light efficiency dramatically decreases
• Check cords and electrical outlets when you clean your bulbs to ensure everything is working efficiently
• If you have children or pets ensure any loose cords are tucked out of sight to avoid tripping hazards and safeguard pets against the temptation to chew electrical cords
• If you have fittings that are 304 or 316 marine grade stainless steel, ensure all fittings are treated before installation with a neutral oil such as WD40. Once your fittings are installed, remove any blotches or stains with a soft cloth soaked in neutral oil. Repeat this process up to 4 times a year to maintain superior quality and finish

Brighter tips for activating your outdoor lights

• Install simple switches in easily accessible locations near door or windows. Mounted indoors, you can easily switch them on and off without stepping outside
• Use motion detectors to automatically turn on when someone approaches your front door or garden path. Most modern sensors have the ability to be adjusted so that they don’t turn on when pets or branches move past the sensor. You can also set the light level so that they only activate after sunset, which saves you money!
• Timers are perfect for automatically turning your lights on at a specified time