After the party, which went pretty well, we talked about it and we both noticed that some areas of the yard were not as well lit as we would’ve liked. After some more discussion, we said to look into landscape lighting.

We soon learned that lighting up our entire backyard the way we wanted to would probably cost a small fortune in electricity. However, before we gave up on the whole idea, we found out about low-voltage landscape lighting.

Since we wanted to minimize our cost, we decided that although the initial cost would be a little higher we wanted low-voltage LED landscape lighting. After that, we found out we would have to decide between low voltage landscape lighting kits which use landscape lighting transformers to step down the house current, or would have to choose a solar kit.

The reason we chose to install LED low-voltage landscape lighting instead of another type of low-voltage landscape lighting, was because of the incredibly long operational life of LED bulbs. Unlike incandescent bulbs or even fluorescent bulbs, LEDs are capable of and operational life of up to 30 to 40,000 hours for a use such as the one we planned to use them for.

Another reason this is such an easy choice for us, is that LED lighting saves 80% more energy than traditional lighting, which can have a huge impact on your electric bill.

After we found out about the possibility of using solar powered lighting, it was obvious to us that we could have landscape lighting which would have no impact on our electric bill at all. Plus, we wouldn’t have to be concerned with running wires. Although the low-voltage LED landscape lighting kits which do use wires don’t require an electrician to install, we like the idea that by using solar all we have to do is pick a spot in which to plant late and push it into the ground.

Now that our backyard has solar powered LED landscape lighting in it, it’s a magical place to be at night. And the best part of all, as it is we observe our low-voltage landscape lighting, we see no dollar signs.

One thing to keep in mind when planning an outdoors low voltage landscape lights is the intensity and style of lighting you are after. Because you are looking at a low voltage system, the intensity and style of light is determined by the physical placement of your lights rather than the amount of power supplied to the lights. The size of the transformer you buy for your lighting system should conform to the style of lighting you are after. A smaller transformer will limit the amount of lights that you can use, but also cut down on your energy costs.

Here are some landscape lighting ideas for low voltage landscaping lightx that you may not have thought of:

A subtle, understated lighting system is amazing for illuminating your flower or rock garden at night. If you have not tried a lower-voltage lighting system for your yard or outdoor space, then you may want to try one right away. Low voltage post lights can usually be the difference between a million-dollar garden and one that goes unnoticed.

Low voltage step lights can be both practical – lighting a potentially dangerous change in level and attractive in the way they can make steps a feature at night.

Low voltage lighting is far superior to standard lighting for highlighting architecture and the grain of the surfaces in your outdoor space. A strong light will simply wash most of the detail in your yard out, whereas a lower voltage system will serve to bring out the nuance in all of your surfaces. A low voltage system can make for a dramatic overall look.

Low voltage lighting is an amazing way to illuminate your custom landscaping. Many manufacturers produce lights specially made to illuminate shrubs, bushes, and trees. Look for a tall fixture that disperses light over a wide area to accent your landscaping.

A lighting system is a great way to improve the security of your home. Most would-be burglars search for homes that are surrounded by darkness so that they can operate without being seen. A low voltage system may not be as effective for security as floodlights, but you want to preserve the beauty of your outdoor space as well!

Hopefully, you will consider a low voltage lighting system. You will save money on energy costs and significantly bolster the aesthetic value of your outdoors space.

Landscape Lighting
Candles may be romantic -but they are certainly not pracitcal or safe for lighting your outdoor patio! Instead you need to consider an outdoor landscape lighting scheme which will will be both practical and enhance the area. A popular option is low voltage landscape lighting becasue this type of lighting can be installed easily by an amateur and does not require a sophisticated outdoor power setup. Even easier, and a green alternative, is solar powered landscape lighting – this is particularly useful for lights that are only required for a few hours after sun-down – which is often most of your external lights. Although not that bright, solar-powered lights can be adequate for paths and border illuminations.

Outdoor Furniture
When it comes to outdoor furniture there is a bewildering range of choices – but its probably best to start with the larger pieces and decide an overall look for yoru outdoor space – just like you would a room inside your home. Modern outdoor furniture comes in every style from resin wicker furntiure, to solid teak furniture to cheap and cheerful plastic outdoor sets. Outdoor dining furniture are often the center piece of a patio area and you probably want to spend most of your budget on a good quality dining set. An outdoor bar and BBQ are also popular additions to your outdoor room.

Outdoor Furnishings

Just like rooms within your house you can soften the look and make the outdoor space more inviting by using outdoor furntiure cushions and indoor outdoor rugs.  Choosing the right fabric is critical particularly if you keep these items outdoors all the time. Another option is to have a storage unit or trunk for cushions where they can be stored when not in use and protected from the elements- particularly the sun which will fade bright colours quickly in many parts of the country.  If you are going to leave outdoor seat cushions in place all the time you should ensure that they are wind-proof and tie them firmly to the chairs so the wind doesnt’ rearange them for you!