Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy backyard patio, a well-lit walkway, or dramatic landscape lighting that shows off your home’s architecture, outdoor lighting can instantly elevate your yard. But the big question for many homeowners in Denver and Centennial is: How hard is it to actually install outdoor lighting?
The short answer? It depends on what you want—and how comfortable you are working with electricity. In this guide, we’ll break down different types of outdoor lighting, what goes into installing them, and how to decide whether it’s a DIY job or a project better left to the licensed electricians in Denver or the licensed electricians in Centennial at Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical.
Types of Outdoor Lighting
First, let’s look at what kind of lighting you might be adding to your yard:
- Pathway Lighting: Low-voltage lights that line your sidewalk or garden path
- Floodlights/Security Lights: Motion-activated or manually controlled lights for safety and visibility
- Deck and Step Lights: Small fixtures built into stairs or under railings
- Landscape Accent Lighting: Spotlights for trees, shrubs, or water features
- Overhead Fixtures: Lights for patios, pergolas, or gazebos
Each type has its own installation process and level of complexity.
What Makes Outdoor Lighting Difficult to Install?
Here’s where the challenge level really starts to vary:
1. Power Source and Wiring
If you’re using plug-in or solar lights, installation is straightforward. But if you want hardwired fixtures connected to your home’s electrical system, things get more complex.
Running underground wires, connecting to an existing circuit, and ensuring everything is up to code takes more than a YouTube tutorial. You’ll also need to plan for weatherproof connections and possibly install a GFCI outlet if one isn’t already present. Learn more about wiring and rewiring services offered by Bell.
2. Permits and Electrical Code
In places like Denver and Centennial, electrical work must meet local code requirements—and may require a permit. That includes making sure buried wires are a safe depth and using outdoor-rated fixtures and wiring.
3. Fixture Placement and Design
Designing a layout that’s functional and beautiful isn’t always intuitive. Too many lights can feel harsh or distracting. Not enough, and you’ll miss the effect entirely. The pros at Bell can help you design a lighting plan that’s both safe and stunning.
4. Digging and Installation Work
Some outdoor lighting requires trenching, mounting fixtures on masonry or siding, or running conduit through challenging terrain. Even solar lights may require staking into hard, rocky Colorado soil.
DIY vs. Professional Lighting Installation
So, should you tackle outdoor lighting on your own? Here’s a quick breakdown:
DIY may work if:
- You’re installing solar or battery-powered lights
- Your setup is temporary or decorative, not functional
- You have an existing outdoor outlet to plug into
Call a pro if:
- You need to run new wiring or circuits
- You want permanent, code-compliant lighting
- You’re unsure how to safely work with electricity
- You want the job done quickly and beautifully
At Bell, our licensed electricians handle everything from simple light installations to full outdoor lighting systems. We’ve helped homeowners in Centennial and Denver create spaces that are as safe as they are beautiful.
Check out our full range of electrical services or dive into our lighting installation options.
Why Outdoor Lighting Is Worth the Investment
Yes, it can be a bit of work—but outdoor lighting pays off. It offers:
- Improved safety by lighting up steps, paths, and dark corners
- Increased security with motion-activated floodlights
- Enhanced curb appeal (a big bonus if you plan to sell)
- Extended living space with illuminated patios and decks
- Energy efficiency with LED or solar-powered options
If done right, outdoor lighting can turn your yard into your favorite “room” of the house.
Ready to Light Up Your Yard?
Whether you want to brighten a garden path, highlight your home’s architecture, or increase safety around your property, outdoor lighting can transform your space.
The electricians at Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical are here to help homeowners in Denver, Centennial, and beyond bring their vision to life. We’ll handle the technical stuff—so all you have to do is flip the switch.
Contact us today to schedule your outdoor lighting consultation!