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You decide to finally invest in some outdoor lighting, flip on the switch, and are filled with instant regret.
The path lights are blinding, the path feels like a scary walk to a dark cave, and half the fixtures are way too dim.
Installing landscape lighting might look simple, but it is one of those projects that even the smallest mistakes can lead to big disappointments. From poor placement to wiring issues and low-quality fixtures, it is easy to miss the mark without a solid plan.
Let’s walk through some of the most common landscape lighting mistakes and how to avoid them so you can create an outdoor space that is safe, functional, and beautiful.
Common Landscape Lighting Mistakes
Installing your own landscape lighting might seem like a fun weekend project, that is, until you are knee-deep in tangled wires, mismatched fixtures, and lights that just won’t turn on.
While DIY kits promise easy install, the truth is, getting landscape lighting just right takes a solid understanding of electrical load, fixture placement, and how light interacts with your space. Let’s explore a few of the most common mistakes to avoid with outdoor lighting.
Poor Fixture Placement
One of the most common and easy-to-make mistakes in landscape lighting is putting fixtures in the wrong place. A light pointed the wrong way can end up shining directly in your eyes instead of gently illuminating the path. Miss the right angle, and you might end up with overly-bright spots in some areas, while other areas like steps, flower bed edges, or patio transitions, are left in the dark. Not only is this a safety concern, but it also disrupts the overall flow of your outdoor space.
It’s easy to go overboard and pack your yard with too many lights, which can make the space feel harsh and washed out instead of inviting. However, too few fixtures can leave your landscape looking patchy and unfinished. Proper outdoor lighting installation highlights what you love without overwhelming the space.
Problems with Wiring or Voltage
The most important mistakes to avoid with outdoor lighting involve mistakes with wiring and voltage. It is easy to accidentally overload a transformer or connect too many fixtures to a single line. Each light pulls power from a main line, and if the balance is not right, you can end up with flickering bulbs, lights that don’t turn on, or a system that ends up burning out way too soon.
There are different outdoor lighting setups, ranging from solar lights, bistro lights, and more complex low-voltage systems. Low-voltage lighting is popular because it is energy-efficient and safer than high-voltage systems. However, this type of lighting still requires proper panning and sometimes even the help of an electrician.
For example, if your yard doesn’t already have exterior outlets in the right places, you might need a pro to install them. Without the right power and wiring setup, even the best quality lights won’t perform the way you want them to, and they certainly won’t last.
Wiring can also lead to several landscape lighting mistakes. It is key to use proper, weatherproof connectors. At Green Ackors, we use wire nuts filled with silicone that seal out moisture and protect your connections long-term. If you skip that step, or try to just twist wires together, you will likely end up with corrosion, shorts, or lights that mysteriously stop working.
Poor Quality Lights
Not all landscape lighting fixtures are created equal. It is tempting to grab a cheap box of solar lights from the nearby big-box store and call it a day, but more often than not, those budget-friendly options will not hold up.
Many of them are not truly weatherproof, which means they will start to crack, fade, or completely fail after just one season. They also tend to put off very little light and often don’t last through the night, leaving your yard dimly lit and uneven. If you are lighting spaces for safety reasons, you need lights that you can count on.
An important landscape lighting installation tip we can offer is to invest in quality fixtures from the start. Professional-grade lights are designed to handle the elements, provide consistent illumination, and give you a better return overall on your investment.
Forgetting About Maintenance and Accessibility
If you plan to try to install lighting yourself, avoid placing lights in spots that look great now but are nearly impossible to access later. Fixtures mounted too high or buried in tight corners can turn a simple bulb change into a major hassle. And when maintenance becomes a huge headache, it is easy to let the whole system fall into disrepair.
How to Install Landscape Lighting: Start with Proper Planning
Truly looking to avoid landscape lighting mistakes? Great landscape lighting starts with a thoughtful plan. Professionals don’t just show up and start sticking lights in the ground. They walk your property, talk with you about the features you want to highlight, and identify areas that need extra lighting for safety. They also check out practical things like whether there are enough outdoor outlets and whether your current electrical setup can support the lighting design you want.
Skipping the planning phase is the easiest way to end up with a system that is more frustrating than functional. Taking the time to map out where fixtures will go, how wiring will run, and how everything will be powered ensures your lighting works beautifully.
Partnering with a Professional for Proper Outdoor Lighting Installation
Avoiding these common landscaping mistakes really comes down to thoughtful planning and professional installation.
At Green Ackors, we have helped countless homeowners in the Waco area create outdoor spaces that are beautiful and built to last. With years of experience, high-quality fixtures, and a deep understanding of what works and what doesn't, our team can bring out the best in your landscape without all the stress and headaches of DIY.
Ready for a backyard that feels inviting after the sun sets? Get started by filling out our contact form for landscape lighting services in Waco, TX.
