Grilling season has finally arrived! You can step outside and smell the barbecues being fired up all across Kansas City. This means that you will likely be spending more time outdoors, as well, especially during the evening when it is cooler outside. If you have a landscape lighting system installed, it is the ideal time to have it serviced. With regular outdoor lighting maintenance, your lights will work without issue year after year. However, if you aren’t sure whether or not this is something you need to invest in, learn about some of the signs of a problem with your landscape lighting here.
Fixtures Out of Place of Misaligned
As time passes, your fixtures can get knocked over by pets and kids, displaced by snow and rain and uprooted by trees and other plants. Fixtures that are misaligned can ruin the intended effect and impact of the lights, which is why it is a good idea to have them adjusted back to proper alignment before the summer months hit.
Lights that are Out or Dimmer than Usual
If the lights are just dim, it may simply mean that the lenses are dirty. Mineral deposits from snow and rain, debris and dirt can cause a light to appear dimmer. This is especially true for fixtures near or on the ground. You can easily clean these lenses with a non-abrasive cloth and mild cleaner. You may have to put in a bit of elbow grease to get them crystal clear, but it’s worth it.
If some of your landscape lights are out, the bulbs will likely have to be replaced. Be sure to purchase the right size and type of replacement. It is also important to change the bulb as soon as you know it is out since one “out” bulb can cause others nearby to have a shorter lifespan. This is because each bulb draws a small amount of voltage when working properly; if they burn out, the working bulbs nearby will receive more voltage which can cause damage.
Cut or Exposed Wires
During plant removal projects, new landscape design ideas and other tasks, the landscape lighting wires may get damaged or cut. Also, the thaw and freeze cycle during the winter can cause a wire to move to the surface. If this occurs, the wires should be reburied. Prior to reburying the wire, be sure to inspect it closely. If you see any copper wire, then it will have to be replaced first. In most cases, calling the service technicians at the IDL Company will be a good idea in these situations.
Even if you don’t notice any issues with your existing landscape lighting, but it has been a while since you have had it serviced, you should call the professionals. They will be able to inspect the system to ensure everything is still working properly. This will help to extend the life of the lights and even save you money down the road.
