If you’ve done some research into adding landscape lighting to your home, you’ve probably noticed that there are a variety of choices available. Two of the most popular choices on the market are solar landscape lighting fixtures and wired, low voltage lighting systems. Below, you’ll find a comparison of solar lighting vs low voltage lighting across several important categories to help you make your decision.
Safety
Both solar lights and low voltage lighting are safe options for your home. When it comes to solar lights, you never have to worry about electrical accidents, and you may appreciate the added bonus that there are no wires that might become tripping hazards.
Because a low voltage system uses a low electrical current and only 12 volts, it is significantly safer than a traditional halogen system. Although any electrical system carries some risk of electrical problems if not properly installed, an easy way to ensure safety is to have a professional install your landscape lighting system. Lighting professionals have the appropriate tools and knowledge to bury wires, secure them properly, and waterproof your system to safeguard against electrical accidents or storm damage.
Energy Efficiency
Many homeowners are initially drawn to the energy efficiency of solar lighting. Since they gather energy from the sun and store it in a rechargeable battery, they will not add to your energy costs, which not only reduces your carbon footprint but also promotes environmental sustainability.
When it comes to low voltage landscape lighting systems, the most energy-efficient choice is light emitting diode (LED) lights, which are up 90 percent more efficient than traditional, incandescent lights. Although a low voltage landscape lighting system will add to your electrical bill, choosing LED lights will minimize the impact.
Ease of Installation
Since solar lights do not require burying wires or installing and connecting a transformer, they are a popular choice for homeowners who want to tackle installation themselves. You will need to ensure the light fixtures are placed where they will have adequate sun exposure, and you may have to prepare the ground by adding water or digging small holes for the fixtures.
A low voltage lighting system, on the other hand, requires wiring and a transformer. The National Electrical Code provides guidelines for the installation of outdoor lighting systems, including burying wiring about 6 inches deep to protect them from animal activity and lawn work. The easiest way to make sure your low voltage lighting is up to code is to trust lighting professionals with your installation.
Durability and Maintenance
Maintenance issues with solar lights usually revolve around replacing rechargeable batteries and broken fixtures periodically. You might also need to clean lenses and solar panels to keep them at peak efficiency. Because solar light fixtures are generally cheaper and lower quality than wired lighting fixtures, they are less durable and more susceptible to weather damage.
A wired, low-voltage system will be significantly more durable than solar lighting. LED lights are long-lasting, and a properly maintained system will last for years. Many professional landscape lighting companies, including Dayloom, provide affordable maintenance programs.
Performance and Versatility
Since solar lights depend on sun exposure, you might be more limited in where you can place them, and their performance can be affected by the weather (e.g., cloudy days and shorter daylight hours during winter). Typically, solar lights are not as bright as LED lights and their performance can fluctuate, leaving potential dark spots on your property that don’t provide the same level of safety and security as a wired lighting system.
One of the appeals of low voltage LED lighting systems is the consistent brightness and versatility they offer. Whether you want to use lighting to highlight architectural or landscape features, increase security and safety, and add value to your property, you can add lights wherever you need them (pathways, water features, pool, patio, outdoor dining areas, doors, windows, etc.) without having to worry about sun exposure.
Let Dayloom Help With Your Landscape Lighting Needs
At Dayloom, we have over 25 years of experience designing and installing beautiful landscape lighting. We believe that lighting should bring people together and create a space worth celebrating. If you’re considering adding low voltage lighting to your property, call us to set up a free consultation to find out how we can help unlock your home’s potential with a stunning, one-of-a-kind lighting installation. We help with maintenance too, so you’ll be able to enjoy your lights for years to come.