Are you looking to create an attractive space next to your pool? Pool lighting not only adds beauty to the environment, but also increases safety. Pool lights are installed in various places, including walls, floors, and even around the pool. Some pool lights can change color and can be controlled in RGB. In this article from ADC, we will fully discuss how to install pool lights, how to install pool light transformers. We will also discuss important points in this process and calculate the required light.
Types of Pool Lights
Pool lights are divided into different types:
In-ground Pool Lights: These types of lights are installed inside the wall or floor of the pool and fit completely into the pool structure. Recessed lights are usually suitable for newly built pools and create a neat and unobtrusive appearance due to internal installation.
Above-ground Pool Lights: Above-ground pool lights are installed on the wall or around the pool and are more suitable for pools that have already been built or need to change the lighting. These types of lights are easy to install and are also easier to access for maintenance and repair.
RGB lights: These lights are color-changing and can create different colored lights. RGB lights are often installed in recessed or surface-mounted.
LED lights: These lights use LED technology, which uses less energy and has a longer lifespan than traditional lights. LED lights can be supplied as fixed or color-changing (RGB).
Flat pool lights: These types of lights are designed to be flat and thin and are suitable for installation in shallow pools or pool walls. The slim design of these lights makes them almost invisible and helps maintain the beautiful appearance of the pool.
Tools needed to install pool lights
Below is a list of these tools and equipment needed to install pool lights:
Transformer: To provide the appropriate voltage for pool lights, a transformer is needed to convert the city voltage to the appropriate voltage for the lights.
Waterproof power cable: To connect the lights to the power source, a water-resistant power cable and the pool’s environmental conditions are required. These cables must have proper insulation.
Junction Box: Waterproof junction boxes are used to connect electrical wires and cables to each other and protect them from moisture.
Stainless screws and dowels: Rust-resistant and moisture-resistant screws and dowels are used to install surface-mounted lights and fix the equipment to the pool wall.
Electrical insulation tape: To insulate and protect electrical connections.
Suitable drill and bit: Drill to drill holes in the pool wall to install recessed or surface lights and create a path for cables.
Silicone glue: To seal and seal the lights and cables against water penetration.
Remote control: If you are using RGB lights or lights with remote control capabilities, the remote control should also be ready.
Voltage tester: It is necessary to use a voltage tester to check and ensure that there is no electricity in the cables before installation.
Water pump: If the lights are installed in the underwater parts of the pool, it may be necessary to drain the pool water.
General tools: General tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, knives, and wire cutters will also be needed to complete the installation process.
How to install a pool light step by step
To install a pool light, follow the following steps:
1. Preparing the installation site
Before starting the installation, you must first determine the exact location of the lights. This includes determining the exact location of the lights on the pool wall or floor and checking environmental conditions, such as humidity and access to a power source. You should make sure that the power is off and that it is completely safe. At this stage, it is also essential to check the dimensions and type of light in relation to the installation location.
2. Making holes for recessed lights
If you are using recessed lights, use a drill and a suitable bit to make holes in the pool wall or floor. These holes should be exactly the size of the lights so that the lights are firmly in place and without any looseness. Make sure that the holes are clean and free of debris so that the light installation is done properly.
3. Installing the junction box
The junction box should be located near the installation location of the lights. This box should be completely waterproof and all electrical connections should be placed inside it. Pass the wiring of the lights through the junction box and make sure that there is no water leakage into the box. The junction box should be securely mounted in a location that is easily accessible for future maintenance.
4. Installing the Transformer
Install the transformer in a dry location away from the pool. This device is responsible for converting the utility voltage to the voltage appropriate for the pool lights. The electrical wiring from the transformer to the junction box and then to the lights must be done correctly. Make sure that the transformer’s output voltage matches the specifications of the pool lights.
5. Connecting and Wiring the Lights
Wire the lights accurately and in accordance with the wiring diagram provided by the manufacturer. The connections must be tight and insulated to prevent water leakage and short circuits. The use of waterproof cables and electrical insulation tape is essential to ensure the safety of the wiring. Route all wires from the junction box to the lights and connect them properly.
6. Install the lights in place
Place the lights in the holes or on the pool wall and secure them using screws and bolts.
Secure them with the appropriate screws. For recessed lights, use silicone sealant to prevent water from entering the lights. For surface mounted lights, make sure the lights are installed correctly and at the correct angle.
7. Test and verify operation
After installation is complete, turn on the pool lighting system and check the operation of the lights. Make sure all lights are working properly and there are no short circuits or defects. Check that the transformer is working properly and the output voltage is appropriate. If using RGB lights, test the color changes and the operation of the remote control.
8. Final sealing and safety
At this point, recheck all connections and lights and make sure there are no water leaks or safety issues. Use silicone sealant for the final seal and make sure that all electrical connections are well insulated. Also, make sure that the junction box and transformer are installed properly and securely.
Post-installation maintenance and care
After installing your pool lights, it is recommended that you regularly check the operation of the lighting system and perform the necessary maintenance. This includes cleaning the lights, checking the connections, and ensuring that the transformer and power cables are working properly.
How to install a pool light transformer
To install your pool light transformer, you must first choose a suitable location near the pool and away from moisture.
Mount the transformer firmly and securely, and then connect the power input wires to the input terminals and the output wires to the junction box near the lights.
Make sure that all connections are well insulated and that water is prevented from entering the transformer.
After installation, test the system to ensure that it is operating properly and that the output voltage matches the needs of the lights.
Regular care and maintenance of the transformer is essential to extend its useful life and optimal performance.
Pool Light Installation Height
Pool lights are usually installed on the walls of the pool at a height of between 30 and 50 centimeters from the pool floor. This height is chosen so that the light from the lights can properly illuminate the water surface and lower parts of the pool while preventing glare for swimmers. Installing the lights at this height helps distribute the light evenly and prevents the creation of annoying shadows.
In larger pools or with special designs, the lights may need to be installed at different heights to properly illuminate all areas of the pool. In any case, it is important that the height of the lights is selected in accordance with the depth of the pool and the overall lighting design.
How to calculate the amount of pool light
Factors that affect the calculation of the required light for the pool are:
Pool size: The larger the pool, the more lights you will need.
Water depth: The depth of the water affects the intensity of the light that reaches the bottom of the pool. The deeper the water, the more powerful the lights will be.
Wall material: Dark walls reflect less light, so more lights will be needed.
Lighting type: Do you want to create ambient lighting or display special lighting effects? Each requires a different number and type of lights.
Light type: LED, halogen and SMD lights each have different light efficiency.
Light color: The color of the light also affects the intensity of the light. Warmer lights (yellow, orange) are usually less intense than cooler lights (blue, white).
Approximate calculation methods
Rule of thumb
Small pools: One 50-watt light is enough for every 10 square meters of water surface.
Medium pools: Two 30-watt lights are suitable for every 10 square meters of water surface.
Large pools: Three 20-watt lights are recommended for every 10 square meters of water surface.
Using lighting design software
Specialized lighting software allows you to calculate the amount of light needed and create a plan for your pool lighting by entering the dimensions of the pool, the type of lights and other
parameters.
Consulting with an expert
The best way to accurately calculate the light needed is to consult a lighting expert. Experts will provide the best lighting plan according to the specific conditions of your pool. In this regard, you can use the guidance of EDC experts.
Tips for installing pool lights
Make sure that the appropriate electrical system and transformer are selected for the electrical load of the lights. The electrical load of the total lights must be in accordance with the capacity of the transformer and the pool electrical system.
Lights and electrical connections must have a protection rating of IP68 or higher to be sufficiently resistant to water and moisture. Use corrosion-resistant connections.
The pool light wiring diagram must be carefully designed and include all details of the connections, the location of the lights and the route of the cables. Use cables specifically designed for wet environments with proper insulation to avoid electrical problems.
The installation angle and light distribution settings should be such that the light is evenly distributed throughout the pool.
Choose pool lights based on the type of pool (swimming, recreational, decorative) and environmental conditions. LED lights with the ability to change color and light intensity are suitable for recreational pools, while waterproof and rustproof lights are a better choice for use in outdoor pools.
Buy all kinds of pool lights EDC + Free lighting consultation
To buy all kinds of quality pool lights and benefit from free consultation on choosing the right lighting products, EDC is the ideal choice. At EDC, we have a wide range of pool lights with diverse designs and
We offer a variety of products that can fully meet your pool lighting needs.
In addition, our expert team is ready to help you choose the best options based on your specific needs with free consultation. By purchasing from EDC, you can benefit from high quality, 30+30 months warranty and excellent support services.
