Installing an Outdoor Pole Light

Installing an outdoor pole light can be a fantastic way to add functional lighting and atmosphere to your outdoor space. Whether you want to illuminate a dark pathway or create a well-lit patio area, installing a pole light is a relatively simple DIY project that requires some design savvy and a little elbow grease. If you're not afraid to get your hands dirty and want a permanent outdoor lighting fixture, installing a pole light is the way to go.

Step 1 - Decide What You Want

Outdoor pole lights come with a few different features that will affect the installation process, so it's important to do your research before getting started. For example, if you choose a solar-powered light instead of a standard electrical fixture, you won't have to do any electrical work. However, if the light needs to be switched on and off and connected to the house's electrical panel, you'll need to call a qualified electrician to do the job. With solar-powered or battery-powered lights, you won't have to worry about your level of electrical expertise.

Step 2 - Prepare the Ground

Determining the location is an important aspect to consider before starting any digging or wire laying. The closer the light is to the house, the easier it will be to connect it to the house's electrical system, but don't sacrifice performance for convenience. Determine where you want the light and then figure out how to lay your wires or dig your pole. The wire should pass through a properly arranged PVC conduit all the way from the house to the light and then through a concrete pole on which the light sits. DIY enthusiasts can do this task themselves, but it is essential that the conduit be done safely and according to professional standards.

Step 3 - Call the Electrician (or Not)

Electrical wires will need to be laid in an underground trench about 18 inches deep through a properly arranged conduit. Excess wire should be left to enter the house, and at least 6 inches of the conduit should protrude from the pole hole with enough wire to connect to your pole light. You can save money by doing the digging and conduit work according to the electrician's recommendations before they do any electrical work. Skip this step altogether if you're going for a solar-powered pole light (just make sure the location receives enough sunlight).

Step 4 - Prepare the Ground and Concrete

Always read the manufacturer's instructions, but typically 1-2 feet of the pole should be enclosed in concrete. Use a shovel to dig a hole about 12-16 inches in diameter and a pole digger to go about 18-24 inches deep. For anything heavier or longer than a standard 8-foot pole, you may want to dig below the frost line for extra strength. Add a layer of gravel at the bottom for drainage and a level spot for the base of the pole. Have an assistant hold the pole while you check that it's straight. Once you have a good base, mix the concrete or use quick-setting concrete, being careful not to get any on the wire. Double-check that the pole is straight and in position before it sets.

Step 5 - Attach the Light Fixture

After the concrete has cured, cover the top portion with soil, gravel, or grass. Use a ladder to attach the light fixture to the pole. If wires have been run through conduit, pull them up to meet the electrical housing of the light and connect it just as you would with a standard light fixture. Follow the same safety precautions, such as turning off the main power and reading the instructions. Clean any dust and dirt, turn on the switch, and voila, let there be light.

FAQs

1. Can I install an outdoor pole light myself?

Yes, installing an outdoor pole light can be done as a DIY project, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully and consider the necessary electrical safety measures. If in doubt, it is always best to hire a qualified professional.

2. What's the difference between a solar-powered pole light and a wired pole light?

A solar-powered pole light is powered by the sun's energy and does not require any electrical wiring. A wired pole light, however, needs to be connected to the house's electrical system and requires a qualified electrician to do the installation.

3. Can I install a pole light at an angle?

Yes, you can install a pole light at an angle if you prefer. It can add a decorative element and create an interesting visual effect. Just make sure the pole is securely anchored in the ground.

4. Can I move the pole to a different location once it's installed?

It may be possible to move the pole to a different location, but it will likely require a reinstalling process. You will need to dig out the pole and reinstall it in a new hole. This may require the services of a professional to do it properly.

5. What should I do if my pole light isn't working?

If your pole light isn't working, it's possible that there is a problem with the wiring or the light fixture itself. Check to ensure that the wires are correctly connected and that there are no loose or frayed wires. If you can't identify a problem, it's advisable to call a professional electrician to inspect and repair the issue.