Garden lighting transforms outdoor spaces, extending their use into the evening and creating atmosphere and security at the same time. From subtle path lights and uplighters to feature tree lighting and functional security floodlights, the range of options available for UK gardens has never been greater. Planning a garden lighting scheme before installation ensures a coherent result and avoids the need to dig up the garden multiple times.
The starting point for any garden lighting scheme is the power supply. A dedicated outdoor circuit, run in armoured SWA cable from the consumer unit to a weatherproof external distribution board, provides the most flexible and safe foundation for a garden lighting installation. From the distribution board, individual circuits can be run to different zones — patio, lawn, path, and feature areas — each controlled independently. RCD protection is mandatory on all outdoor circuits.
LED technology has transformed garden lighting efficiency. Modern LED garden fittings consume a fraction of the power of their halogen equivalents, reducing running costs to pennies per evening. Warm white (2700–3000K) is flattering for seating areas and architectural features; cooler white (4000K+) works well for security and task lighting. Smart garden lighting systems — such as those by Philips Hue Outdoor — allow colour and intensity to be adjusted via smartphone app.
Safety in outdoor lighting installation is paramount. All outdoor fittings must be rated for outdoor use — a minimum of IP44, with IP65 or higher recommended for fittings directly exposed to rain. Buried cables must be at the correct depth (500mm in lawn areas, 600mm under driveways) and marked with cable covers and route markers. DP Power Solutions designs and installs garden lighting schemes of all scales, from a single security light to a full landscape installation.
About DP Power Solutions: We are qualified domestic electricians based in Staffordshire, providing EICRs, consumer unit upgrades, rewires, EV charger installation, and more across Cannock, Rugeley, Lichfield, Stafford, and the surrounding area.