Low Voltage Landscape Lighting Vs. Solar Lighting

It really can be a difficult decision. Low voltage landscape lighting and solar lighting both have advantages and disadvantages. But if you look at it carefully your decision on how to show off your beautiful yard will become a lot easier.

The biggest advantage of solar lights is that there are no cables and no outdoor electricity to worry about. They are very easy to install. Yes they are a little more expensive, but when you want to make your yard look beautiful, many people don't consider price to be the biggest factor. Especially since they may pay for themselves over time because they don't use electricity. These people will also look at how easy they are to set up, and if that's a big factor for you, then low voltage landscape lighting will likely not be your choice.

But before you jump in and buy, consider some other factors as well. First and foremost should be the location of your home. And consider your landscape. If you live in a wooded area where extra lighting is a must, then low voltage outdoor lighting simply makes more sense. And what if you have beautiful large trees in the yard. Those trees probably give you a lot of shade. If you want your solar lights to work well, they'll likely need about 8 hours of direct sunlight. Will they get that with your trees?

And if you live on a street that doesn't have street lights, will those solar units provide enough light. Most of them can be rather dim, and good lighting in a secluded area is a must.

So don't just consider cost, or ease of installation. Consider where you live. If your house is in a tree covered or wooded area, solar lights may not do the trick. And they may not be bright enough in dark or secluded neighborhoods. Low voltage landscape lighting would probably be a better choice.

If however you live in a more open sunny area, solar lights may be all you need.