Outdoor Lighting & Power: What to Consider Before You Install

Start with a Plan: Purpose, Zones, and Mood

Before you buy a single LED floodlight or pathway light, identify the purpose of each area. A simple site plan, even sketched on paper, helps you and your electrician design a cohesive landscape lighting scheme and locate weatherproof GPOs (general power outlets).

• Entry & front path: Prioritise pathway lighting and motion sensor lights for safety and convenience.
• Driveway & side access: Consider security lighting with passive infrared (PIR) sensors and wide-beam LED floodlights.
• Alfresco & patio lighting: Use warm, glare-controlled fixtures (downlights, wall lights, or pendants) to create an entertaining mood. Add outdoor power for heaters, portable fridges, or BBQs.
• Deck lighting & steps: Low-glare recessed deck lights or step lights improve safety and ambience.
• Garden beds & trees: Use low-voltage garden lighting (uplights, spike lights) for drama and depth.
• Pool & spa zones: Strict safety rules apply. Coordinate pool area lighting with a licensed electrician and comply with clearances and equipotential bonding.

Pro tip: Think in layers—ambient lighting for general glow, task lighting for functional areas (cooking, steps), and accent lighting to highlight architectural features or trees.

Safety & Compliance First (Australia-Specific)

Outdoor electrical work must comply with Australian regulations (e.g., AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules) and is not a DIY job. Always engage a licensed electrician to install outdoor power points, run cabling, and connect circuits.

Key safety considerations:

• RCD safety switches (residual current devices) are essential. Outdoor circuits should be RCD-protected to reduce shock risk.
• IP ratings matter. Choose fittings with appropriate Ingress Protection for water and dust (e.g., IP44 for covered patios, IP65 or IP66 for exposed locations, and higher near coastal spray).
• UV-stable cabling & conduits. Sunlight degrades plastics; specify UV-resistant materials outdoors.
• Earthing & bonding must be correct, especially near pools, spas, and metallic structures.
• Cable protection & depth. Underground runs should be in conduit at compliant depths, with warning tape where required.

Search-friendly reminder: “Hire a licensed electrician for outdoor lighting installation and weatherproof outdoor power points” is more than good advice—it’s a legal and safety requirement.

Choosing the Right Fixtures (Form + Function)

Selecting fixtures is about more than looks.

For reliable exterior lighting, evaluate:

• Material & finish: Marine-grade stainless steel (316), powder-coated aluminium, or solid brass/bronze resist corrosion—critical for coastal homes.
• Lens & optics: Quality optics reduce glare and direct light exactly where needed. Frosted diffusers soften light on patios.
• Replaceable vs integrated LED: Integrated energy-efficient LED fixtures offer sleek design and excellent efficiency; ensure reputable drivers and long warranties. Replaceable LED lamps (GU10/MR16) offer flexibility but require compatible housings.
• Beam angles: Narrow beams (10–25°) for feature uplighting; wider (40–60°+) for general wash.
• Colour temperature: 2700K–3000K warm white for entertaining areas; 4000K neutral white for task/security zones. Keep a consistent tone across the property.

Popular fixture types:



• Wall lights (up/down lights) for façades and pillars
• Bollard lights for paths and driveway edges
• Spike lights for gardens—easy to reposition with plant growth
• Recessed step/deck lights for safety
• Under-eave downlights for general wash and neat lines
• LED strip lights (IP-rated) for alfresco benchtops, stair treads, and feature niches
• Floodlights with motion sensors for security

IP Ratings & Weatherproofing: What Those Numbers Mean

IP ratings indicate protection against dust and water.

For exterior lighting and weatherproof outdoor power, know the basics:

• IP44: Splash-proof—okay under cover (eaves, patios).
• IP54/IP55: Better dust & water jets protection—good for semi-exposed sites.
• IP65/IP66: High protection against heavy rain and jets—ideal for fully exposed walls, pergolas, and gardens.
• IP67/IP68: Submersible—used for water features; consult a specialist.

For outdoor power points (GPOs), look for IP-rated enclosures with robust covers that seal when the plug is inserted. In coastal or harsh environments, select corrosion-resistant hardware and check gaskets regularly.

Power Capacity, Circuit Design & Future-Proofing

Discuss load calculations with your electrician. It’s common to separate:

• Lighting circuits (LED loads are small but numerous) from
• Power circuits (heaters, pool pumps, BBQs, outdoor fridges), and
• Special circuits for EV chargers, spa pumps, or garden pumps.

Future-proofing tips:

• Lay spare conduits to garden beds or future pergolas.
• Add a couple of extra weatherproof GPOs in strategic spots (festoon lights, Christmas displays, pressure washer).
• Consider a dedicated smart lighting controller enclosure with space for expansions.

Controls & Smart Outdoor Lighting

Intelligent controls improve convenience, energy efficiency, and security:

• Motion sensor lights (PIR) at entries and side paths.
• Dusk-to-dawn sensors (photoelectric) so lights auto-adjust with seasons.
• Timer switches to manage feature lighting and holiday routines.
• Smart outdoor lighting systems (Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or Matter-compatible) let you:
• Create scenes (e.g., “Entertaining,” “Security patrol”).
• Schedule garden lights at sunset.
• Dim/colour-tune compatible LED strips.
• Control from your phone or smart speaker.
• Two-way/three-way switching for long pathways and garages.

Energy Efficiency & Sustainability

Modern energy-efficient LED technology drastically lowers running costs.

To maximise efficiency:

• Choose high-efficacy LEDs (lumens per watt) from reputable brands.
• Use warm dimming or dimming with compatible drivers to right-size the brightness.
• Employ sensors and timers to eliminate wasted hours.
• Consider solar garden lights for remote plant beds or where cabling is impractical (quality varies—choose models with replaceable batteries and quality panels).
• Aim for dark-sky friendly designs that reduce light spill and protect nocturnal wildlife.

Avoiding Glare, Spill & Light Pollution

A beautiful landscape lighting design is subtle.

Minimise glare to keep areas inviting and neighbour-friendly:

• Shield the light source (louvers, hoods, eyelids).
• Use narrow beams to highlight features without washing the whole yard.
• Mount fittings at appropriate heights and angles—don’t point spotlights directly into sightlines or windows.
• Dim accent lights. Less is more outdoors.

Special Locations: Pools, Spas, BBQs & Coastal Homes

• Pool and spa zones: Strict clearance distances apply for lights, switches, and outdoor power installation. Use extra-low voltage where appropriate and ensure all equipment is correctly earthed and RCD-protected.
• BBQ/outdoor kitchen: Provide dedicated weatherproof GPOs for BBQ ignition, rangehoods, fridges, and benchtop appliances. Add task patio lighting with good colour rendering for cooking.
• Coastal properties: Salt air is harsh—specify marine-grade materials, sealed fixings, and schedule regular cleaning.

Cabling, Mounting & Installation Details (What Your Electrician Handles)

A quality installation hides the hard work:

• Conduits & junctions: Correctly rated and sealed. Underground runs at compliant depths with warning tape. Above-ground runs concealed where possible.
• Fixings & penetrations: Corrosion-resistant screws, sealed wall/soffit penetrations to prevent water ingress.
• Mounting surfaces: Solid backing for heavy lights and IP66 floodlights; avoid flimsy cladding without reinforcement.
• Isolation: External isolation switches for pumps, heaters, and large loads for safety and servicing.
• Labelling: Clearly labelled circuits in the switchboard, including RCD safety switches.

Costs & Budgeting (Guide Only)

Actual pricing varies by site and specification, but planning ranges help:

• Basic pathway/entry package (a few bollards, wall lights, sensor, timer): $800–$2,000 (fixtures + install).
• Entertaining area (patio/downlights, dimmer, GPOs, feature strip): $1,500–$4,000.
• Full garden lighting with multiple zones, quality spike lights, and smart control: $3,000–$10,000+.
• Additional outdoor power points (IP-rated): typically $200–$500 each installed, depending on cable run and switchboard access.

Remember to budget for:



• Quality fixtures (long warranties save money long-term).
• Smart controls (optional, but add convenience).
• Trenching & landscaping reinstatement.

These are broad guides to help planning; request a detailed quote from your licensed electrician.)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Under-specifying IP ratings for exposed areas, leading to premature failure.
• Glare-bombing with bright floodlights in social zones—kills ambience (and annoys neighbours).
• Too few power points—result: messy extension leads. Add more weatherproof outdoor power points than you think you’ll need.
• No RCD protection or mixed circuits without proper design—serious safety risk.
• Ignoring maintenance—dirty lenses and loose seals reduce performance and lifespan.
• Random fixture placement instead of a planned landscape lighting layout.

Maintenance: Keep It Safe & Looking Great

Create a simple maintenance routine:

• Quarterly: Wipe lenses, check seals, tighten fixings, trim plants around lights.
• Biannually: Test RCD safety switches, inspect conduits, check for corrosion or UV cracking.
• Annually: Review timer schedules (daylight changes), update smart scenes, replace worn gaskets, and re-aim garden spotlights as plants grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the best lights for garden paths?

A: Bollards or low-glare pathway lights spaced evenly (usually 3–5 metres apart depending on beam spread). Choose IP65 or higher for exposed paths and warm white (2700–3000K) for a welcoming glow.

Q: Are solar garden lights worth it?

A: They’re great for quick installs and remote spots, but check panel size, battery quality, and replaceability. For consistent performance and dimming control, low-voltage garden lighting on a transformer is more reliable.

Q: How many outdoor power points do I need?

A: More than you think. Plan weatherproof GPOs near BBQs, fridges, heaters, garden equipment, and festive lighting. Avoid daisy-chaining extensions.

Q: Can I DIY outdoor lighting?

A: You can plan the design and even position low-voltage spike lights, but any 240V wiring, outdoor power installation, and switchboard work must be done by a licensed electrician.

Q: Warm or cool lighting outside?

A: Warm white (2700–3000K) suits entertaining and gardens; neutral white (4000K) is useful for task and security lighting. Keep colour temperature consistent within each zone.



Bringing It All Together

A great outdoor lighting installation blends safety, function, and style.

Start with a clear plan, choose robust IP-rated fixtures, and layer light for comfort and impact. Ensure your outdoor power points are weatherproof, circuits are RCD-protected, and controls are simple—ideally smart outdoor lighting that works with your routine. Most importantly, partner with a licensed electrician who understands local regulations and can future-proof your system with spare conduits, ample GPOs, and reliable, energy-efficient LED products.



When you design thoughtfully, your garden, deck, and pathways transform after dusk—safer underfoot, more secure around the perimeter, and beautifully illuminated for relaxed outdoor living.