How much wattage do outdoor lights need?

Before calculating wattage requirements, you’ll need to identify exactly why you’re installing outdoor lights. Security lighting typically requires higher wattage (50-100 watts for traditional bulbs or 10-20 watts for LEDs) to illuminate larger areas and deter intruders.

What is the National Electrical Code (NEC) for outdoor wiring?

The National Electrical Code (NEC) includes many specific requirements for installation of outdoor circuits and equipment. With outdoor wiring, the primary safety concerns involve shielding against moisture and corrosion, preventing physical damage, and managing issues related to underground burial.

What wattage should I use for patio lighting?

What’s the recommended wattage for patio and deck lighting? For deck and patio lighting, use varied wattage based on function: 10-15 watts LED per 100 square feet for general illumination, 5-7 watts LED for step lights, and 8-12 watts for task lighting areas (grilling or dining spaces).

What wattage is best for landscape lighting?

A 60-watt incandescent bulb (800 lumens) can be replaced with an 8-10 watt LED. Similarly, a 100-watt incandescent (1600 lumens) equals a 16-20 watt LED. This efficiency difference makes LEDs much more cost-effective for outdoor lighting, despite their higher initial purchase price. What wattage is appropriate for landscape feature lighting?

How many Watts Does a deck & patio light need?

Effective deck and patio lighting balances functionality with ambiance, requiring varied wattage levels for different purposes. For general overhead illumination, calculate 20-30 lumens per square foot, translating to approximately 10-15 watts LED per 100 square feet.

What are the rules for outdoor receptacle outlets?

Many of the rules applying to outdoor receptacle outlets are aimed at reducing the likelihood of shock, which is a notable risk anytime a user is in direct contact with the earth. 1 The principal rules for outdoor receptacles include: GFCI (ground-fault circuit-interrupter) protection is required for all outdoor receptacles.