Have you ever spent money and time on your landscape lighting to repair damaged wires or connections? Landscape lighting carries many benefits. It can beautify the look of your home, allow you to see your surroundings better, and add some value to your property. But, as with most things, there are downsides, especially when it comes to wiring. Let’s take a closer look at four of the most common threats to landscape lighting and explore ways to avoid this damage in the future.
Physical Damage
First and foremost, having your landscape lighting wiring damaged or destroyed by physical force is something you should try to avoid. Most damage is accidental and includes destruction via lawnmower, weed trimmers, running feet, digging near wires and more. Even a light nick by a shovel could result in the loosening of a wire or damaging of a small electrical component, so know where your connections are and make be careful of your activities in that area.
Weather Phenomena
Yes, your landscape lighting is outdoors, and yes, that is also where the weather usually resides. Of course, any weather-related damage is usually out of your control. Everything from heat to tropical storms can work to ruin your lighting. Even lightning is a threat. Lightning strikes are more common in Florida than almost anywhere else in the U.S. – in fact, five of the top 10 counties in the country are here in Florida, reports Weather.com. These powerful bolts of lightning can lead to power surges which can cause even more damage. All you can do is be cautious and secure your landscape lighting as best as you can.
Culprits Under the Ground
When your wiring is placed underground, there is no telling what can get to it and no way for you to know which components may be damaged until it is too late. The main culprits of underground wiring are mice and squirrels who make these wires their playthings. Another common pest is ants, particularly fire ants which are drawn to electrical equipment. Regardless of the animal or insect that cause the issue, the bigger concern with this type of damage is trying to pinpoint where the actual damage occurred. Since this damage is done underground and out of sight, it can often be difficult to identify without tearing up all your connections. Our landscape lighting professionals can help you diagnose and repair your problem, so give us a call to help!
Birds
Birds are majestic and beautiful creatures, but they can also be your landscape lighting’s greatest enemy. Not only can some birds swoop down and rip components apart, but they can also damage your lighting on accident. There have been many reports over the years of bird droppings corroding electrical features or parts of their nests falling into unsecured fixtures and causing shorts and even fires. These issues can often worsen when winter comes around as the birds flock to southern locations from all around the country in search of warm weather.
Put Your Mind at Ease With Illuminations USA
When installed and maintained properly, landscape lighting can beautify your home beyond your wildest dreams. At Illuminations USA, we have been in the outdoor lighting business for years, so we know how to brighten any type of home or dwelling. We can also do a consultation with you to help identify the approach that may work best for your property, allowing you to focus on the most important part of effective lighting – enjoying it!
To learn more, call us today at 407-880-0700 and schedule your initial consultation.