A Brighter Outlook: Tips on Safe and Effective Garden Lighting

I get asked a lot of questions this time of year regarding garden lighting.   Garden lighting takes two general forms.  The first is a functional light like a security light.  The second is predominantly decorative, highlighting features, trees, shrubs, water features and so on.  A well thought out garden lighting plan can increase security/safety for users and make the garden look more attractive.

Due to the very nature of an installation like this it can be hazardous, as you know electricity and water don’t mix, so keeping you and your family safe is paramount.  Your local registered electrician can give you advice on the correct type of light fitting and ensure cables are installed in line with guidelines.

If things go wrong….

One of the most common call outs we get in the Coulsdon and Chipstead area is the RCD tripping on the garden circuit.  The reasons for this are varied: Poor DIY installations leading to ingress of water, foxes/squirrels chewing cables, slugs in junction boxes to name a few.  Your local registered Electrician will have the equipment to find the faults and repair them.

Below are some hints and tips:

• Make sure all outdoor power circuits are RCD protected.
• Buy good quality electrical outdoor lighting equipment from a reputable stockist.
• Make sure any cables run outside are weatherproof and if buried they are steel armoured.
• Ensure light fittings used in water features are waterproof.
• Check regularly for damaged lighting fittings, cables and connections.
• Before changing any lamps, make sure you switch off the power supply.

If you have any questions on garden lighting contact your local electrician, Anthony Jones 0n 020 8914 8297 or anthony@wandle-elec.co.uk