Having a pool is a relaxing experience. However, if a busy schedule allows you to relax in your pool only at night, it is important to install inground pool lights that illuminate the area. You can choose multicolor ambient lights that change color by flipping a switch. Ideally, you should install pool lights at the time of construction to avoid any complications. But, if you decide to add LED lighting to an existing pool, hire the professionals and select the best lighting options available.
Know about the Types of Pool Lights
LED is the predominant type of pool light available in the markets. But, fiber optic lighting and incandescent bulbs are also much in demand for pools.
LED or light-emitting diodes illuminated when electrons move in a semiconductor material. It has no filament and lights can change colors with several show settings. The lifespan of LED bulbs is also quite long when compared to fiber optic and incandescent lighting.
Halogen bulbs work on an electric circuit using a tungsten filament with a small amount of halogen gas to give brighter lights. Fiber optic lights, on the other hand, have a unique design where light travels through fiber optic cables running through the pool wall using a special fitting. You should assess each type of lighting option to choose the right one.
Assess the Pool Usage
The selection of inground pool lights depends on the end-use of the pool. If the pool is located in a commercial facility, it needs to follow several standards for installation of the right type of lighting system. However, for residential pools, there are many options out there. It is better to hire the experts having in-depth knowledge of every lighting option available for your private pool.
Analyze the Cost of Lighting
When it comes to select the best type of lights for your pool, you need to determine the cost that you are ready to pay for the same. The cost of full-size LED pool lights for a concrete or vinyl liner pool can range between $1000 and $1500. While smaller LED lights can cost up to $700-$900, fiber optic pool lights can cost around $1300-$1700.
If you want incandescent lights, they are a cheaper option costing in the range of $450-$650. LED lights may be more expensive up front but they have lesser operational expenses and a longer lifespan to compensate these prices.
Consider the Maintenance Requirements
Typically, replacement of a bulb is the main maintenance requirement of pool lights. However, some lights require replacement of the entire housing which may be a longer job. You can do it yourself or hire professionals to take care of pool light replacements as and when needed.
If you have large LED lights in your pool, you may have to loosen some screws or elevate the bulb housing above the water level for replacement. It is always better to follow proper safety measures for this process to avoid any mishap.
When inground pool lights are installed and maintained as per manufacturer’s specifications, they are safe to use. Yet, it makes more sense to choose the right type of light and take help from pool light expert for proper installation.
