If you have a beautiful pool, your neighbors will surely envy you. Adding pool light on it can make it even more attractive.
With the flick of the switch, the pool light will transform your pool into a breathtaking view. Not only that.
It can also make the pool safer during night swimming. Having the installed lights, swim time is not only limited to daylight. You can use the water anytime you want.
Installing pool lights is not as hard as you think it is. You need to know where to place the lights. This how-to-install pool light guide provides all the help you need in installing. You don’t need to call the experts to install the lights.
The Steps on Installing the Pool Light
Even though you need to consult the instructions manual provided by the manufacturer, the steps to install the pool light below can also help a lot.
Pick the Right Pool Light
You may need to spend some time deciding which light is ideal for your needs, taste, and budget. Among the options are halogen, LED, and fiber optic – and each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Assemble the Lights
To install your light, follow the manufacturer’s instructions after deciding on the best option for you. Test the water-tightness of all the seals by immersing them in shallow water and looking for bubbles.
Choose Between Battery or Electrical Lights
If you use a battery-powered light pool, you can add the battery and proceed with the next step. This is the popular choice of swimming pool owners who want a stimulating effect or feature lighting on their pool.
But for those who want to light up the pool to the fullest, you need to set up a power source. It is best to use a GFCI outlet. Mount the light transformer near the outlet and plug it in.
If it is impossible to do this, you can mount a waterproof junction box on your current power line. Since you will be dealing with electricity, it is best to let the experts do this part.
Install the Pool Light
Test the pool light first before installing. Make sure it is working. Then start installing the light on the pool following the manufacturer’s manual’s instructions.
For corded light with a rigid wall, you have to remove the edging in the area. Position the cording, and place a new frame. It will help anchor the cord to the pool railing based on the manufacturer’s specifications for soft walls.
If you are adding a new light to an existing pool, the steps are more complicated and may require the help of a professional.
It would help if you emptied the pool first when adding new light. After removing the water from a pool, installing the new lighting source requires some work.
Run a wire back to where you want to turn it on or off from the pool wall. Consider all your alternatives (especially if you intend to add lights in the future) before starting the project. This will save you a lot of time, effort, and money in the long run.
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Helpful Tips and Tricks When Installing the Pool Light
The following are some maintenance tips to ensure that your lights continue to perform at their peak for many years to come.
Install your inground pool lights in an easily accessible location with enough cable behind them to allow for simple maintenance.
If possible, have them installed approximately 300-400mm from the top of the coping deeper than that, it would be not easy to maintain.
Take at least 15 minutes every week even in the winter to turn on your pool light, as this will aid in the elimination of any trapped moisture that has built up inside the cavity and help extend the life of your pool light globe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some questions and answers you might be asking:
Is it Possible to Add More than One Pool Light?
Yes, it’s possible, but it depends on the size of your pool and the position of your pool light. Install the lights strategically to prevent dark spots. A 15 x 30 pool can use one light only.
If you are only utilizing one light for the entire pool, position it near its deep end with a narrow beam of light. For bigger pools, you can add 2 to 3 lights.
What is GFCI Protection?
Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices must be used to protect the majority of the devices and equipment that serve pools and spas, as well as the surrounding areas. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Fixtures less than 10 feet from the edge of a swimming pool or spa, unless the fixture is more than 5 feet above the water’s surface.
- More than 15 volts for underwater pool lighting
- Outlets within 20 feet of a swimming pool or hot tub
- Pool cover motors and controllers
- Receptacles for pool pump motors of all distances from the pool are available
Are there any government regulations I need to follow when installing a pool light?
Just like in fencing, there are regulations that you need to remember when installing your pool light. This is usually applied if you install the lights under the water level.
Lights underwater should have an IPX8 waterproof rating, and newly installed lights should not exceed 12V A/C or 30V D/C. The lights should be water-cooled all the time and should remain turned on unless submerged in the water.
Final Thoughts
With the above guide and by following the manufacturer’s manual on how to install pool lights, you can install your pool lighting system easily. Just make sure you choose the proper lighting and follow the government regulations.
It will keep your pool attractive and safe to use day and night. For the complex installation of lights, you can look for professionals to install them for you.