How much wattage do outdoor lights need?

Before calculating wattage requirements, you’ll need to identify exactly why you’re installing outdoor lights. Security lighting typically requires higher wattage (50-100 watts for traditional bulbs or 10-20 watts for LEDs) to illuminate larger areas and deter intruders.

What wattage should I use for patio lighting?

What’s the recommended wattage for patio and deck lighting? For deck and patio lighting, use varied wattage based on function: 10-15 watts LED per 100 square feet for general illumination, 5-7 watts LED for step lights, and 8-12 watts for task lighting areas (grilling or dining spaces).

How many Watts should a landscape lighting system use?

Architectural features require 15 to 30 watts to draw attention without overpowering. Security lighting should range from 50 to 100 watts for enhanced safety and visibility. When you're planning your landscape lighting, it's essential to grasp the basics to create an inviting outdoor space.

How does wattage affect outdoor lights?

Wattage directly determines how bright your outdoor lights will shine and how much electricity they’ll consume. A higher wattage bulb produces more lumens (the actual measure of brightness) but draws more power from your electrical system.

How many Watts should a light fixture use?

For pathways, aim for 5 to 10 watts per fixture to ensure safety without overwhelming brightness. When lighting trees or larger features, you might want to use 20 to 50 watts to highlight their beauty effectively. For patios or seating areas, 10 to 20 watts will create a warm, inviting ambiance.

How many Watts Does a deck & patio light need?

Effective deck and patio lighting balances functionality with ambiance, requiring varied wattage levels for different purposes. For general overhead illumination, calculate 20-30 lumens per square foot, translating to approximately 10-15 watts LED per 100 square feet.