Now that you understand the advantages and types of LED pool lights, how do you choose the right ones for your pool? To help you make an informed decision, we’ve highlighted the most critical factors to consider when selecting LED swimming pool lights.
Types of LED Pool Light
When selecting LED pool lights, deciding which type of fixture best suits your needs is essential. The most common options are fixed lights, typically recessed or surface-mounted, or spotlights, which are mounted on a swivel base and offer directional lighting. After knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each type, you can choose the LED pool lights that best meet your lighting preferences and pool design.
Ultimately, choosing between installed and spotlighting LED pool lights comes down to personal preference. Spotlights may be better if you prefer greater versatility and more concentrated lighting. However, recessed lights may be the better choice if you prioritize safety and want to avoid obstacles or potential injuries in the pool. For example, consider your lighting needs and design preferences to determine which type of LED pool lights will best enhance your pool experience.
Replacement or New Install
You’ll have more options when installing LED pool lights in a new pool than with an existing pool. For example, many people prefer to install only recessed pool lights in new collections to avoid the need to carve out areas for new lights and wiring, which can make the installation process more complicated. Considering your lighting needs and planning during the pool design phase, you can ensure that your LED pool lights are seamlessly integrated into your new pool and provide the desired illumination.
If you’re installing LED pool lights in an existing pool, expect the installation process to be more complex than a new collection. Nevertheless, installing LED pool lights in an existing pool is still possible. However, it’s crucial to budget more for installation and consult an experienced electrician or lighting designer to ensure your vision is feasible before purchasing. With proper planning and execution, you can successfully add LED pool lights to your existing pool and create the desired lighting effect.
Calculate How Many Pool Lights Need
Once you’ve determined which type of LED pool lights you want, the next step is to determine how many lights you’ll need. The number of lights required will depend on the size of your pool and how well-lit you want it to be. It will also depend on the amount of surrounding lighting.
For instance, if you have floodlights nearby that illuminate your landscape, one or two LED pool lights may be sufficient. However, if you only have some wall washers several meters away, you may need to install more lights in your pool to achieve the desired lighting effect. By considering these factors, you can determine the appropriate number of LED pool lights to install for optimal illumination.
There are other options if you have limited surrounding lighting in your pool area and want to install only a few LED pool lights. For example, you can install more outdoor lighting around your landscape or opt for inground or garden lights to provide additional illumination. These alternatives can help enhance the pool experience while reducing the required LED pool lights and balancing functionality and aesthetics.
When determining the number of LED pool lights required, it’s essential to consider the shape of your pool. For instance, a circular pool may only need a single light at the center, while an L-shaped pool may require one light in each branch of the “L” to ensure adequate illumination. As you plan the installation, ensure that every corner of the pool is well-lit to optimize safety and enhance the overall pool experience.
When installing LED pool lights, it’s generally better to install fewer lights than too many. Installing too many lights can be complicated and expensive regarding upfront costs and ongoing expenses such as the electric bill. Additionally, an overabundance of lighting can make the pool area appear too bright and detract from the overall ambiance. As a result, it’s essential to carefully consider your lighting needs and budget when determining the appropriate number of LED pool lights to install.
IP Waterproof Rating for Pool Lights
While most underwater lights may perform well in a pool, it’s essential not to assume that a pond or fountain light will work in a pool. Several critical differences, such as the pool’s chemicals and depth, come into play. For example, pool lights are typically placed further underwater than those in fountains, making them more susceptible to additional water pressure.
Moreover, pools contain chemicals like chlorine that can damage certain types of lights. As a result, it’s crucial to choose LED pool lights specifically designed for use in pools and capable of withstanding the unique conditions and chemicals found in pool environments.
Fortunately, it’s easy to avoid potential issues when selecting LED pool lights. Instead, confirm with the seller that your chosen lights suit pool lighting. Additionally, look for a waterproof rating of at least IP68. Ideally, verifying the light’s compatibility with pool use through reviews or tests would be best to avoid falling victim to misleading claims by less reputable retailers seeking to make a sale. Taking these precautions ensures that the LED pool lights you choose are safe, effective, and compatible with your pool’s unique conditions.
Selecting the Appropriate Brightness
When choosing LED pool lights, it’s important to consider the appropriate brightness. One way to measure brightness is by lumens, which measure the amount of visible light emitted by the light source. Another way to measure brightness is by watts, which count the energy the light source uses.
It’s important to note that more watts don’t necessarily mean more brightness. LED lights use less energy (watts) than traditional pool lights while emitting the same or more significant amount of light (lumens). So when selecting a LED pool light, it’s better to focus on the lumens rather than the watts.
Brightness is also important for pool safety. Adequate lighting ensures swimmers can see the pool’s edges, steps, and obstacles, which helps prevent accidents and injuries. Proper lighting around the pool area can also help deter unauthorized access and improve overall security.
Picking the Right Color and Design
Choosing between single and multi-color lights would be best when selecting LED pool lights. Single-color lights are available in various shades of white, ranging from warm to cool white. On the other hand, multi-color lights can produce an array of colors, which can be programmed and changed using a remote or a smartphone app.
While single-color lights are more straightforward and may suit those who prefer a more classic look, multi-color lights offer versatility and a fun ambiance for pool parties or special occasions.
Another option to consider is synchronized lighting systems, which allow you to synchronize your pool lights with other outdoor lighting systems, such as landscape lights, for a more cohesive look. This can create a stunning visual effect, especially at night, and enhance the overall aesthetic of your pool area.
Watts of Pool Lights
Fortunately, it’s easy to avoid potential issues when selecting LED pool lights. Instead, confirm with the seller that your chosen lights suit pool lighting. Additionally, look for a waterproof rating of at least IP68. Ideally, verifying the light’s compatibility with pool use through reviews or tests would be best to avoid falling victim to misleading claims by less reputable retailers seeking to make a sale. Taking these precautions ensures that the LED pool lights you choose are safe, effective, and compatible with your pool’s unique conditions.
Color Temperature Options
If you are unfamiliar with shopping for outdoor lights, you may not know the range of color temperatures available for landscape lighting. Similarly, you will have numerous options when selecting LED pool lights. For example, the color temperature, measured in Kelvin, plays an essential role in determining the overall color of the light, whether it be a bright white, a warm white, or another hue. Therefore, it’s essential to consider your preferences and the desired ambiance when selecting a color temperature for your LED pool lights.
Regarding color temperature, many pool experts recommend avoiding excessively bright and white lights. Instead, it’s typically best to opt for a warmer or more neutral shade that creates a welcoming and less glaring atmosphere for swimmers and those in the pool area. This can help you select LED pool lights that provide the desired illumination and ambiance without being overly bright or distracting.
Controls and Programming
As mentioned, LED swimming pool lights offer various control and programming options. The most suitable choice for you will depend on your personal preferences. For example, some individuals prefer the convenience of manually turning the lights on and off with a switch. In contrast, others may prefer the automation of having the lights turn on and off automatically via a timer. Ultimately, there is no definitive “better” option, as it comes down to individual needs and preferences.
Lighting Fixture Quality
When selecting LED pool lights, it’s essential to consider the overall quality of the fixture. LED lights in a pool will be submerged in water, making repairing or replacing them challenging. Therefore, choosing a higher-quality LED pool light that can withstand regular use and minimize the need for repairs, maintenance, or replacement is essential.
Choosing a high-quality LED pool light is crucial to avoid the severe risk of electrocution. Low-quality lights may have a casing that could break, exposing the wiring to the water in the pool and creating a dangerous electrocution risk. It’s not worth risking your safety, so always opt for a higher-quality fixture to ensure your pool is adequately lit and safe to use.
How to Confirm Lighting Fixture Quality?
Pay attention to the manufacturer and reviews to ensure that you select a high-quality LED pool light. Only choose lights from a manufacturer with certifications and a robust testing process. For instance, Upward Lighting sets an industry standard by subjecting every light to 15 rigorous tests. This approach assures you that the product you choose is of high quality and can withstand the conditions of underwater usage.
A warranty is another important indicator of quality for LED pool lights. For example, a product with a warranty shows that the manufacturer is confident in their product and is willing to back it up in case of any defects or issues.
