Common Landscape Lighting Terms
Landscape lighting is used to illuminate gardens, yards, and walkways at night for aesthetic and practical purposes. Lighting is a popular landscape design feature, and there are many lighting choices available for outdoor areas. Below are six terms to be familiar with that describe different types of landscape lighting features used to accent homes and gardens.
Solar Powered Lighting – Outdoor lights with small solar panels that collect power from the sun during the day and illuminate gardens or walkways at night. Solar powered exterior lights minimize energy costs and are environmentally friendly.
Security Lighting – Outdoor lighting that illuminates a yard to discourage trespassers and allow for the detection of intruders. Security lighting is often activated by a motion detector and makes use of spotlight bulbs. People often place security lighting above doors or outside of garages.
LED Lights – Bright, energy-efficient lights that are sometimes used in landscape lighting. LED lights can emit brightly colored light and may be solar powered because of their low energy requirements. LED stands for light-emitting diodes.
Low Voltage Lighting – Light fixtures that rely on electricity to operate. Low voltage landscape lighting needs to be plugged in to an electrical outlet. They can be set on an automatic timer to conserve energy usage.
Underwater Lighting – Waterproof light fixtures that are used in pools, hot tubs, and backyard ponds. Underwater lighting allows people to enjoy recreational activities after dark.
Tiki Torches – A bamboo torch used for lighting that often burns citronella oil to repel insects from porches, decks, and patios.