“Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.” Victor Hugo
How much does a landscape lighting system cost?
There are many variables that can affect the total cost such as the size of the property and the terrain type (dirt, clay, sand, rock). Another variable is the customer’s choice of fixture. The quantity and quality of the fixtures selected can cause the total price to fluctuate (typically good, better, best scenario). The last major factor is fixture placement. Fixtures installed high in trees or underwater in fountains tend to cost more than ground mount fixtures. Overall, a system can cost as low as $1,200 and as high as $75,000, but the average project (design, materials, and installation) will typically cost somewhere in the $3,000 to $6,000 range.
Is L.E.D. a better option than halogen?
Not necessarily. While L.E.D is more energy efficient, it doesn’t handle heat well. We do not recommend it in outdoor applications, especially here in South Texas. Temperatures in excess of 72 degrees over an extended period of time cause the L.E.D. to diminish lumen output over time, as well as a shift in light color.
How much does it cost to operate a landscape lighting system?
It’s nowhere near as expensive as you might think. In the Greater San Antonio area, electricity is 10 cents per kilowatt on average. That translates to 10 cents per 1000 watts per hour. The average low voltage system uses a 600 watt transformer. Your cost would be determined by the number of hours you leave your lights on. Basically, if you leave your landscape lighting system on throughout the night for 10 hours, it would only cost you 60 cents per night using this formula.
Does the landscape lighting system come with any warranties?
The manufacturers warranty is very important to a consumer. The majority of lighting manufacturers offer a 1 year warranty on all light fixtures. The better manufacturers will typically offer a 3 year warranty, and the best manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty. Make sure you understand the warranties for the products you are purchasing for your outdoors.
How long will the landscape lighting system last?
Lighting systems can typically be rated on a good, better, best scale. A good system can last anywhere from 7 to 10 years. Better lighting systems can last from 10-15 years, but the best systems can and will last a lifetime. Of course this all depends on the fixture quality, the quality of the initial installation, and the regular maintenance of the lighting system.
Can my electrician, irrigation expert, or landscape guy design and install my landscape lighting?
That is a loaded question. Are they capable of coming up with a rough design and installing it? Yes, many are capable. However, because it is not their area of expertise and often becomes a side project/addition to the original contract, mistakes can often be made with installations. Small details tend to be passed or overlooked, resulting in a poor installation that doesn’t last and leaves a lot to be desired. Landscape lighting design is a difficult art that should only be trusted to a lighting specialist.
How long does the landscape lighting installation take?
The average job is completed within one work week. Larger and more complex lighting systems can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple months.
Can I upgrade my landscape lighting system after it’s been installed?
If you already have an existing system in place, a lighting specialist would need to see your system to properly answer that question. If you are installing a system and are considering making additions to the property in the future, it is up to you to inform your lighting specialist. Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance! Your lighting designer can run wire in preparation for the future changes. It’s much cheaper for the customer to have the wires run in the beginning while the lighting specialists are already digging in the ground. When the lighting specialist knows about the potential add on in advance, they can also make sure you have a transformer that can handle the total load. Having to buy a new transformer alone can cost around $500!
What are some common problems with landscape lighting?
The biggest issues associated with owning and operating a landscape lighting system typically have nothing to do with the installation itself. Your landscape is constantly growing and changing. Wires are stretched and snapped by growing trees and tree roots. Kids can accidentally break fixtures and dogs can dig up and chew wires. Fresh fertilizer has acidic properties that can destroy fixtures and connections. Even sprinklers can damage the lights by leaving hard water stains on the fixture and lens.
How often should I service my landscape lighting system?
As often as necessary. The maximum amount of time that should elapse between regular servicing is 1 year, however, it is recommended that you service your lighting system at least 2 times per year. Always keep in mind that your landscape lighting is outdoors 24/7. It’s subjected to the elements and gets just as dirty as your car can. Proper maintenance can keep your system running for years!