Your beautiful backyard pool offers a respite from the heat of the summer sun. It’s also a great hangout spot for you and your loved ones on a sunny day. As the sun sets, your pool becomes a dark expanse. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to extend your pool enjoyment into the night? That’s where pool lights come in. Pool lights not only enhance your swimming area’s aesthetics but also make your pool safer and more secure after dark.
If you’re thinking about adding or replacing pool illumination, you’re probably wondering whether you should tackle it yourself or hire a professional. Both options come with advantages and disadvantages you should seriously consider. This blog post will walk you through the ins and outs of DIY pool lights and professional installation, helping you to make an informed decision.
A Quick Guide to DIY Pool Light Installation
Before diving into your project, you should know the basic steps of how to install a pool light:
Preparation
- Turn off the power to your pool’s electrical system before beginning.
- Drain the pool enough so that the pool light access points or installation locations aren’t underwater.
- Gather the tools needed, such as a screwdriver, wire cutters, electrical tape, and silicone caulk.
Removal of Old Lights (As Applicable)
- Locate the niche for the pool light and remove any tiles or coping stones.
- Carefully disconnect the wires from the old light fixture.
- Unscrew or unmount the old light fixture and remove it from the niche.
- Clean the niche of any debris or old sealant.
Installation
- Attach the new light fixture to the existing wires.
- Use a waterproof sealant to prevent leakage into the new fixture.
- Turn on the power to the pool and make sure the new light is working as it should.
Once you’ve verified that the pool lights are working, refill the pool (if necessary) and enjoy the new illumination. Bask in the satisfaction of a successful DIY pool light installation.
The Perks of Doing It Yourself
- Cost-Effectiveness: You save money with a DIY pool light installation by not having to pay a professional.
- Convenience: When someone else does the job, you operate on their schedule, not yours.
- Flexibility and Personalization: You have the freedom to choose lights with the features that you want for a personalized approach.
- Feeling of Accomplishment: Few things are as satisfying as knowing you successfully completed a DIY project.
Because you installed the lights yourself, you’re likely to gain a deeper understanding of how pool illumination works. You’ll be much more confident knowing how to install pool lights in the future.
Potential Pitfalls of DIY
Before committing to DIY pool light installation, consider these potential drawbacks:
- Electrical Hazard: Working with electricity is dangerous enough on its own, but even more so near water. Because water conducts electricity, the risk of shock is high when installing pool lights.
- Technical Knowledge: Installing electrical fixtures in a pool requires knowledge of your electrical system and how the various components work.
- Potential for Damage: Improper installation can damage not only your light fixtures but your pool as well. You may spend more money correcting any errors, eliminating potential savings from doing the work yourself.
- Time-Consuming: It will likely take longer for you to complete a DIY pool light installation than a knowledgeable pro.
There’s also the possibility that DIY installation of your pool lights voids their warranty. It’s critical that you count all the costs before undertaking this project, including an honest assessment of your skills and comfort in working with electrical wires. If you have any doubts or concerns, you should consult with a qualified professional.
Peace of Mind with the Pros
While a successful DIY pool light installation can be rewarding, it’s important to carefully consider the risks. Professional pool light installers have the expertise, tools, and experience to ensure a safe and efficient project. They have knowledge of any local regulations related to electrical work and can handle any complications or unforeseen issues, such as damaged wiring or difficult access. The pros know how to install pool lights, guaranteeing a high-quality result.
Are you ready to turn your swimming pool area into a safe and beautiful nighttime haunt? Get a free assessment today, and let us handle your pool light project. We offer several high-performance LED pool lights and installation services in one convenient package.