Factoring in the Cost When Choosing Landscape Lighting Technology Options

By Brad Arnold

© Brad Arnold

The cost of providing landscape lighting should be mitigated by the fact that it is typically a one-time deal. While homeowners might add new outdoor lighting as they make changes in their landscaping design, the initial work is timeless.

When a home is constructed, the outdoor lighting that illuminates the surrounding landscape is often left wanting. After all, it is most likely one of the final aspects of the home construction project to be completed. Therefore, it is often left to the homeowner to come up with a landscaping lighting scenario that both meets the expectations as well as fits within the budget. Perhaps the most important aspect of this type of job is to remember to hire a licensed electrician to complete the work for you in order to ensure that it is done correctly and safely.

The Cost of Outside Lighting

While the expense of incorporating outside lighting to your landscape varies according to the style, size, and number of outdoor light fixtures that you intend to purchase, what you must remember is the fact that this is most likely a once or twice in a lifetime expenditure. Of course, you might incorporate a few additional lighting fixtures over the years to illuminate a new pond or rock garden, but in general your initial electrical work is going to become a permanent aspect around the exterior of your home. With that thought in mind, you’ll realize that the expense is worth it no matter how much you decide to spend in the end.

In addition to the cost for the specific lighting fixtures, wiring, and electrical outlets that you purchase, you need to factor in the cost of paying a licensed electrician. Typically, the fees that you’ll pay to hire an electrician are more than reasonable, especially when taking into consideration how much more expensive not using a certified electrician can be. Most townships and cities have very strict building codes that take into consideration landscape lighting. It is important that you follow the codes or you will receive the notice of a fine in the mail. Additionally, if you don’t hire a certified electrician but use the services of Aunt so-and-so’s nephew, you might get more than you bargained for such as faulty equipment, a short in the wiring, or fires.

Landscape Lighting Technology Options

With all of the many changes over the years, homeowners have more options than ever before when it comes to selecting outdoor lighting fixtures and set ups. Typically, it’s going to be a matter of personal preference and landscaping needs when determining just where you will go with your landscaping lighting scenario. Among your options, you will find the following ideas to consider:

• Remote Controls: One advantage that remote controls offer over the standard flip switch is that you can use it from more than one location. It is easy and simple enough that even a child can do it. Changing your lighting scheme is simplified when you incorporate a remote control into the plan.

• LED Lighting: One of the benefits of using LED lighting is that this type of technology uses less energy than that used by standard incandescent lighting. Plus, it will last for a longer amount of time.

• Fiber Optics: This type of lighting option features both an energy-saving aspect as well as being unique in appearance. Might not be a wise choice for all functions such as safety precautions.

• Sensors: Landscape lighting is available with sensor devices that control the turning on of the lighting. This type of technology is quite popular for outdoor lighting.

These are just a few tips to help you start planning your next outdoor lighting or landscape lighting project. If you have any questions regarding outdoor lighting or any form of electrical work in Turlock, the Modesto area, or Stanislaus and Merced counties, give Automated Equipment a call today.