Installing a light into your pool can be a great way to extend the time you spend in your pool. Just like other electrical issues with your pool pump and pool cleaner system, if there is anything you are not 100% sure of, consulting an electrician is highly recommended.
- Types of Pool Lights. Just like any other category of lights, there are many to choose from. There are colored light systems, where you can change the light color by turning one set off and another on. There are light-sensitive lights that will turn on automatically as the ambient light fades at the end of the day. There are even solar powered lights, although these do not have the strength of normally powered lights. There is such a range to choose from it gets down to personal preference. Many lighting systems can even be flush-mounted and retro-fitted into concrete, fiberglass and even vinyl above and in-ground pools. Don’t think because they were not installed when your pool was put in, you are limited to the cheaper versions that just hang in the water attached to the wall.
- Cost. Pool lighting, like all lighting has become very inexpensive in the last 10 years. When we were children, the cost of anything to do with lighting was astronomical. With the boom in production in China, where all goods on the planet are made, even underwater and waterproofed lighting is very inexpensive. You will find these items in hardware stores, pool supply stores, and of course you can always get a great deal by buying online.
- Installation. Anything to do with electricity and water is very dangerous. You must always cut any power to your pool lighting system while making any changes. Make sure others in your property are aware. If someone does not know and switches the circuit breaker on you could be in serious trouble. The cost of an electrician might just well be worth it, despite this being a relatively simple job. They do know what they are doing and their work will be guaranteed. The last thing you want is someone getting in your swimming pool and getting shocked to death. Many underwater lights will have special circuit breaking abilities, and also your home should have these functions built into the electricity system. If you have an older home, this might not be the case. Some lighting systems also come with low voltage transformers that allow quieter and cooler operating temperatures. Again, this might be a little tricky for the home-handyman, and consulting your local electrical services supplier is highly recommended.
- Maintenance. There will be a limited amount of maintenance. You will need to keep the glass clean and change the bulbs every so often. Again, this is something you should talk with your electrician about when first installing. The higher quality lights will have very long-lasting globes, and this might not be necessary for a few years.
For anyone who has a home swimming pool, this small investment is worth thinking about. The luxurious ambience created is definitely worth the minimal cost.