TIPS FOR POND LIGHTING


When planning and selecting your pond lighting remember to take things slowly and one step at a time.  You can begin with just one or two lights and as time goes on you can refine your lighting scheme.  To start keep it simple and subtle.  Remember, the focus should be on your koi pond,.  You don't want to drown your entire yard in light.  If you want to add texture and interest to your pond and yard, keep certain areas unlit.  By using darkness and shadows you can add interest to your yard and pond.

Spotlights will bring to your koi pond the sparkling and shining quality of all your water features.  They are the best choice for highlighting fountain, waterfalls and other pond features.

iconicon Solar lights can be used to light areas of your pond that are in difficult or remote areas.  They do not need electricity, thereby offering cordless freedom.  Not only can solar lights offer you more creative options, they also save on your utility bill.  While most solar lights are meant only to accent, the spotlights shown at left are true work lights.  These brilliant solar spotlights are eight times brighter and will possibly be the only illumination you need to light up a dark area.

Moonlight effects can easily be created.  If, for example, you have an arbor or even a trellis you are using for daytime shade, this can also be used at night for that beautiful moonlight effect.  Low wattage lights added to your foliage can create a soft light, spread over iconicon your pond.  This beautiful victoria arch can create a handsome entrance to your water garden or pond.

Controls for your system are important.  When using pond electrical equipment always practice safety first!  A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) should be installed on the electrical line or lines that are used for your pond equipment, lights, pumps, filters, aerators, etc.  The circuit breaker GFCI not only shuts off the electrical supply in the event of a ground fault, it will also shut off when an overload or short circuit is present. 

When designing your lighting system include a timer.  Not only will a timer add security to your home, it conserves power as well.  You can also install a motion sensor to activate your lighting system.  Pond predators and intruders alike will find this a powerful deterrent.  Adding  iconicon motion sensors so that the lights activate as you approach adds fun and drama to your pond, but more importantly, lights can help prevent a person from accidentally falling into your pond in the dark.  This beautiful solar fountain sparkles after dark and is the perfect enhancement for any pond.

Another tip I can add from experience is to place your timers, transformers, GFCI as well as other controls in an easily accessible area.  When an adjustment needs to be made, it is much easier if you are in a warm and dry location.  I have placed my controls in the garage, but your basement will work just as well if that is your preference.  Make sure that you can see your lights from wherever you place the controls as you don't want to run back and forth.  

Adding lighting to a backyard pond will not only make the area more user friendly and comfortable, but will add grace and beauty to your pond.  You will find that the return on your investment in pond lighting to be very advantageous.