|
IP Rating |
First Digit |
Second Digit |
Protection Description |
|
IP00 |
0 |
0 |
No protection against solids or liquids |
|
IP23 |
2 |
3 |
Protection against solid objects > 12.5 mm and vertically falling raindrops at up to a 60° angle |
|
IP44 |
4 |
4 |
Protection against solid objects > 1 mm and splashing water from all directions |
|
IP55 |
5 |
5 |
Dust-protected and protection against water jets from all directions |
|
IP65 |
6 |
5 |
Dust-tight and protection against low-pressure jets of water from all directions |
|
IP66 |
6 |
6 |
Dust-tight and protection against powerful jets of water, making it suitable for ship decks or environments with heavy water exposure |
|
IP68 |
6 |
8 |
Dust-tight and protection against continuous immersion in water under specified conditions |
How to
CHOOSE AN OUTDOOR LIGHT
Your ultimate guide to choosing outdoor lighting to suit your needs.
The right outdoor lighting enhances your home’s exterior, offering ambience, safety, and a chance to showcase your space at night.
Start by thinking about how you use each zone - is it for relaxing, entertaining, or simply moving through? From garden features and alfresco dining through to paths and entryways, the right lighting defines your outdoor lifestyle.
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Material suitability
Your environment matters. In coastal or humid locations, salt and moisture can speed up corrosion. That’s why we recommend coastal-rated fittings for exposed areas - like those in our Made By Mayfair Seaside range - designed to resist wear and stay looking great over time.
All of our coastal-rated lights are backed by a 5 year-warranty.
Types of outdoor lighting
Backyard lighting works best when layered. Rather than relying on one bright fitting, combine different light sources to create atmosphere, improve visibility and extend how the space is used after dark. Here’s how to think about it:
House
Make a strong first impression with lighting that’s both decorative and practical. Wall lights or ceiling lights near the entrance enhance safety and welcome guests, while outdoor pendants add warmth to alfresco spaces.
Garden
Create contrast, texture, and depth using spike spots, bollards, and deck lighting. Highlight trees, paths, or water features and make installation easy with our DIY Quick Connect System. Choose from 12V, 24V or go wireless with solar.
Solar Lighting
Harness daylight to light your space after dark. Solar lights recharge during the day and require no wiring - just place them where you want soft, automatic illumination.
Flood Lights
For larger spaces or architectural details, floodlights provide broad, powerful light. Often used for security, they offer clear visibility and peace of mind.
Smart Lighting
Set colour, dim levels, or schedules with the Lucci Connect range. Control everything via the app - or go hands-free with voice commands via your smart home hub.
Exterior Lighting Voltage Explained: 12V, 24V and 240V
The right voltage for your exterior lighting makes a big difference to performance, safety, and long-term reliability. Outdoor lighting typically runs on one of three voltages - 12V, 24V, or 240V - and each is designed for different applications. Understanding when to use each helps ensure your lights perform as intended, without dimming, flicker, or unnecessary complexity.
12 Volt (12V) Outdoor Lighting
12V lighting is a low-voltage option commonly used for small to medium garden and landscape applications. It operates via a transformer that steps mains power down to 12V, making it safer to handle and easier to install.
This option is best suited to lighting shorter runs such as garden beds, pathways and feature plants close to the power source. Because 12V systems are more prone to voltage drop over longer distances, they work best when cable lengths are kept relatively short or when lighting loads are modest.
Best for:
- Small gardens
- Pathways
- Feature lighting
- DIY-friendly installations
24 Volt (24V) Outdoor Lighting
24V lighting is also low-voltage but offers improved performance over longer cable runs compared to 12V. Like 12V systems, it requires a driver or transformer, but the higher voltage allows power to travel further with less loss.
This makes 24V ideal for larger landscapes, long garden runs and installations where multiple fittings are spread across a wider area. It delivers more consistent brightness and helps reduce dimming at the end of the run.
Best for:
- Large gardens
- Long cable runs
- Landscape designs requiring consistent light output
240 Volt (240V) Outdoor Lighting
240V lighting runs directly off mains power and must be installed by a licensed electrician. It delivers higher output and is commonly used for fixed exterior lighting such as wall lights, security lighting, and architectural features.
Because it does not require a transformer, 240V is suitable for installations where fittings are permanently wired and higher output is needed. Due to safety and compliance requirements, it is not suitable for DIY installation.
Best for:
- Wall lights
- Security lighting
- Fixed exterior fittings
- Permanent installations
How to install garden lighting
Security Lighting
Motion-activated lights deter intruders and provide added security by illuminating entry points and dark areas around your home. They also enhance night-time safety by increasing visibility and reducing the risk of trips or falls.
Sensors
Add sensors to existing fittings for automated security. Install near gates, entrances, or garage doors to react to movement and increase visibility when needed.
Create an outdoor room
Use clever lighting placement to create usable outdoor spaces - day and night.
Your outdoor space can be as functional and stylish as any interior. Layering lighting is key: string lights add mood, deck lights improve safety, and sconces elevate architectural detail. Together, they shape a space that’s usable day and night.
Outdoor Heating
Radiant heaters use infrared waves to deliver targeted warmth where it matters most. They're ideal for patios, pergolas, and alfresco zones where consistent warmth helps you enjoy your space all year round.
Outdoor Fans
Enjoy breezy entertaining. Outdoor fans offer comfort and airflow on warm days and help deter insects. Available in coastal-rated finishes for long-lasting performance.
Festoon Lighting
Perfect for gatherings big or small, festoon lights bring charm and character. Drape them across fences, pergolas, or trees to create a soft glow that makes any evening feel special.
Downlights
Sleek and functional, outdoor-rated downlights are ideal for patios, entrances, and overhangs. They offer strong ambient light while maintaining a minimalist look.
What is an IP Rating?
IP rating, also known as Ingress Protection rating, is a standardised system that indicates the level of protection a fixture offers against solid objects (like dust and debris) and liquids (such as water). The IP rating is usually composed of two numbers. The first number represents the level of protection against solid objects, while the second number indicates the level of protection against liquids. For example, an IP65 rating means the fixture is dust-tight (6) and is protected against water jets (5). The higher the numbers, the greater the protection. In outdoor lighting, a higher IP rating is generally preferred to ensure that the fixture can withstand rain, snow, and other forms of moisture.
Do I need an electrician to install my garden lighting?
The DIY Quick Connect System offers an easy and cost-effective way to set up your garden lighting without an electrician. From the connection of the wiring kit to your power source, you can easily connect your preferred garden light to a huge variety of DIY Quick Connect compatible lights. Learn more.
Let an expert install your outdoor lighting
You can easily create the perfect outdoor space with our extensive range of outdoor lighting. Once you’ve found your preferred lights for your home, we also offer an installation service to ensure your outdoor light is installed safely and securely. To find out more about our fixed-price installation services, click here.
Do I need to clean my outdoor lighting?
Yes, cleaning your outdoor lights is crucial for their performance and longevity. Dust, dirt, and moisture can accumulate over time, affecting both the brightness and functionality of the fixture. Regular cleaning not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space but also ensures safety by maintaining clear and efficient illumination. Additionally, it helps prevent potential damage and corrosion caused by dirt and debris. So, periodic cleaning is a simple yet essential maintenance task that keeps your outdoor lights shining bright.
Explore our range of Haus cleaning products here.
Explore our range of Haus cleaning products here.
Ensure safe movement around the exterior of your home
Adequate illumination is key to ensuring secure movement around your property, particularly near steps and in the garden. Strategically placed path lights and step lights provide clear visibility, preventing accidents and creating a well-lit environment. Consider the positioning of fixtures to cover all pathways and potential hazards, ensuring that the light is directed in a way that avoids glare or blinding. With our extensive range of outdoor lighting you can easily create the perfect outdoor space. Once you’ve found your preferred light for your home, we also offer an installation service to ensure your outdoor light is installed safely and securely. Head into your local Beacon Lighting store to start shopping today, or browse through our range of outdoor lighting online.
FAQs
What types of outdoor lights are best for different areas of my home?
Different zones need different solutions:
- Paths and driveways: directional lighting for safe movement.
- Entrances: welcoming light with good facial visibility.
- Entertaining areas: soft layered lighting for comfort.
- Gardens: accent lighting to create depth and interest.
What IP rating do I need for outdoor lights in exposed areas?
IP ratings indicate how well a fitting is protected from dust and moisture.
- IP44: Suitable for covered outdoor areas.
- IP54–IP65: Ideal for exposed walls and general exterior use.
- IP67+: Required for areas exposed to heavy rain or ground installation.
For Australian conditions, choosing the correct IP rating is essential for longevity.
How far apart should outdoor wall lights be spaced?
As a guide, space wall lights 2.5–3 metres apart for even coverage. Closer spacing may be needed for pathways or areas where stronger visibility is required.
Should outdoor lighting match the style of my home?
It doesn’t need to match exactly, but it should feel consistent with the home’s architecture. Simple forms suit modern homes, while more detailed fittings complement traditional façades.
What colour temperature is best for outdoor lighting?
Warm white (around 3000K) is generally preferred. It feels welcoming, reduces glare and blends more naturally with landscaping and exterior materials.
Are LED outdoor lights better than traditional globes?
Yes. LEDs use significantly less energy, last longer and handle frequent switching far better than older technologies, making them ideal for exterior use.
How can I reduce glare from outdoor lighting?
Choose fittings with diffusers or downward-facing designs and avoid placing lights at eye level where they shine directly into view. Layered lighting also helps reduce the need for overly bright fittings.
How bright should outdoor lights be? How many lumens do I need?
Brightness depends on purpose, not just size.
- Entry lighting: 400–800 lumens per fitting.
- Path lighting: 100–300 lumens (guidance, not floodlighting).
- Entertaining spaces: layered light rather than high output.
- Security lighting: higher lumens with controlled direction.
Well-placed light is more effective than simply adding brightness.
Can outdoor lights be installed DIY, or do I need a licensed electrician?
Hardwired outdoor lighting must be installed by a licensed electrician under Australian regulations. However, we have a great range of plug-in and solar options that you can install yourself. Just remember, permanent exterior lighting should always be professionally connected.
Are solar outdoor lights better than wired or LED outdoor lighting?
Solar lighting is useful for:
- areas without easy cabling access
- accent or supplementary lighting
Wired LED lighting is typically better for:
- consistent brightness
- reliability year-round
- primary illumination zones
Many homes benefit from using both where appropriate.
Disclaimer
*For professional installation advice, please speak to your local licenced electrician.
SECURITY
Enhance your safety and peace of mind with motion-activated security lights that deter intruders and illuminate critical areas like entrances and dark corners. For safe movement around your property at night, pathway lights and step lights guide your way and prevent accidents, all while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Choose security lighting that suits your needs and provides lasting protection throughout the night.
SENSORS
Motion sensor lighting stands out as the most effective home security lighting method, activating automatically upon motion detection to discourage potential intruders and signal the presence of visitors or animals. Strategic placement, such as near gates, garage doors, and both front and back entrances, is crucial for maximising their effectiveness.
NEED HELP CREATING AN OUTDOOR PLAN ?
You’ll be amazed by the difference the right lighting design and placement can make to the look and feel of your home, but achieving the ideal balance between the aesthetic and the functional can be very tricky. So why not call in the professionals?
As lighting specialists, Beacon Lighting gives you the choice of three design services that will transform your home into a designer dream.
Perfect for a home makeover, renovation or new build, check out our inspiring lighting design services.
Your local Beacon store team can also arrange our in-home and in-studio consultations over a Zoom video call for you.
