Outdoor lighting systems generally require little maintenance (once or twice a year), but issues do occur. So how do I check for landscape lighting system problems? So if you’re thinking, “My landscape lighting system isn’t working properly,” here are some tips to help you check for landscape lighting problems. As always, if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, please call a professional. We are always happy to help.
Lights not coming on?
If you’ve noticed the lights do not seem to come on at all, check to make sure the timer is working and set properly. If the timer is okay, check to see if the transformer’s breaker(s) aren’t tripped. If they are, reset. If they trip again, call a professional. If the breaker(s) are not tripped, but the lights are not coming on, check the GFCI outlet that your transformer is plugged into. The moisture from a hard rain can trip the GFCI outlet. If so, reset it. Again, if it re-trips, call a professional.
Are lights not as bright as they used to be?
Check the lenses for dirt and debris. Remove any debris, and clean the lenses and fixtures. Cleaning the fixtures may also result in them being knocked out of alignment. (However, not cleaning them can potentially result in corrosion and the fixture needing to be replaced. An ounce of prevention is definitely worth a pound of cure—easier and cheaper!) You might need to adjust the fixtures so they are aimed where they are supposed to be. This might also be something better left to a professional. If there is an excessive amount of debris, the lenses may need professional level cleaning, or even replacement. Additionally, landscaping may grow in such a way as to block the path of the light. You’ll need to trim back the overgrowth, or consider moving the fixture. However, this will alter the design. Again, call a professional.
Individual Lights Out?
If an individual light is out, it may very likely be the bulb. Please do not run out to the big orange store or click on everyone’s prime internet source for replacement bulbs, without making sure of their quality and that they are rated for outdoor use. Cheap bulbs are generally poor quality and will end up costing more in the long run because you will need to replace them frequently.
If it is not the bulb, it may very well be the connection. Has the wire been accidentally cut? Could the underground connections have come loose? Here’s where it pays to call a professional as well.
Taking some time to check your system will help stop some problems from ever developing, and will prevent some minor issues from developing into major ones. If you don’t have the comfort level, the time, or the confidence to do it yourself, give us a call. We can come out and get your system back on track in no time! And we offer maintenance agreements to spare you downtime and save you money.
Are you looking for Landscape Lighting in Greensboro? Located in Summerfield, NC Southern Lights- Architectural and Landscape Lighting serves properties and property management companies throughout the state of NC including Greensboro, High Point, Jamestown, Burlington, Reidsville, Oak Ridge, Brown Summit, Winston-Salem, Clemmons, Raleigh, Charlotte, Kannapolis, Salisbury, Gastonia, Matthews, etc.
Southern Lights has installed hundreds of outdoor landscape lighting systems and carries more certifications than anyone in the state. We specialize in lighting designs and service everything we install as well as lighting systems installed by others. With attention to detail and a solid knowledge of design, Southern Lights is the leading outdoor landscape lighting firm in the state of NC and beyond. See why our clients choose us. Contact us today by web (online form) or phone 336-451-4969.
