I guess I should introduce myself. I’m Nate, plant enthusiast and proud owner of LEDGrowLightsReview.org. Chloe (who runs this site) was gracious enough to let me share some of my expertise here on her site. By the end of this guide I hope you can understand why more and more indoor plant growers are starting to make the switch from high-intensity discharge (HID) lights to light-emitting diode (LED) grow lights.

Let’s take a look at what’s on the agenda today.

Table of Contents

• How LED Grow Lights Work as a Substitute for the Sun
• Six Criteria for a Good LED Growing Light
• Heated Debate: LED vs HID

LED Grow Lights Work as a Substitute for the Sun

Plants really don’t need much to grow; they simply need carbon dioxide, water, and light. One interesting fact is that plants don’t actually need dirt or soil to grow. There is a whole field of growing called hydroponics that is based around the idea of growing plants without soil.

Anyways, in a semi-miraculous process called photosynthesis plants take water and carbon dioxide and turn them into food (sugars). This food helps the plant grow strong and tall; unfortunately it helps us grow in a different direction (the whole process is summarized in the graphic below).

Lighting

In today’s guide, we aren’t really going to worry as much about carbon dioxide and water. We’re going to be talking about lighting. As mentioned above plants absorb light and they use the energy from the light to turn water and carbon dioxide into sugar (food).

For the most part people use the sun to grow any plants they might have. Unfortunately, the sun isn’t always available. In some parts of the world (depending on the time of year) the sun is only available for a few hours each day. In addition, some people like growing plants indoors where the sun’s rays don’t penetrate. Not having sunlight makes it difficult to grow. Fortunately, scientists have developed growing lights that plants can use for photosynthesis without ever needing a single ray from the sun.

Quick History of Growing Lights

Not too long ago growing experts found that metallic-halide lights and high-pressure sodium lights worked extremely well for growing plants. These lights are collectively called high-intensity discharge lights. Even more recently, NASA scientists discovered that LED lights could be used to grow plants. LED grow lights are quickly gaining popularity because they are much more energy efficient than HID lights.

What do LED Grow Lights Look Like?

Above is the picture of one of the more popular LED growing lights out there. Each grow light is made up of tens or hundreds of individual LED bulbs (depending on the size of the grow light). For example, a 90 watt grow light might be made up of 90 different one watt bulbs. Below is a picture from Encyclopedia Britannica of what these individual LEDs look like.

We won’t go into all the details here about the science behind how these lights work (frankly, it gets pretty complex and would probably bore you to tears). This picture is worth taking a look at though so you can see what these individual LED “bulbs” look like.

Six Criteria for Purchasing a Quality LED Grow Light

Not all LED grow lights are built equally. There are six characteristics that I recommend you look at before purchasing one of these grow lights.

1. Warranty – Most of the quality LED lights come with at least a one year warranty. Some of the most expensive lights come with a five year warranty. Look for a light that at least has a one year warranty (if at all possible find one with a three year warranty).

2. Trial Period – Since this is a semi-new technology there are a few people out there trying to take advantage of first-time buyers. Make sure you buy a light that has at least a thirty day trial period. This way, if you notice that the light is having no effect on your plant, you can send it back.

3. Actual Watts Drawn – The nature of light emitting diodes is such that a 1 watt diode doesn’t actually draw 1 watt. There is some complex science behind it, but the truth of the matter is that a 1 watt diode might only draw .7 watts. What this means is that a company will list their light at 100 watts when it really only draws 70 watts. The actual watts drawn are what you want to pay attention to. Most companies will list this if you look at the fine print; however, there might be some cases when you need to ask. Don’t be fooled into purchasing a 500 watt light that actually only draws 40 watts.

4. Heat Sink – When someone complains to me that their LED grow light didn’t last very long, the first thing I want to see on the light is the heat sink. Overheating of the LED chips will often cause them to break. This means that a good heat sink needs to be put in place. First of all make sure that the light you are thinking about purchasing has a heat sink. Second make sure that the heat sink is made of copper or aluminum. Third, make sure the heat sink has quite a few fins on it. Heat sinks are confusing so I’ve included an illustration of one below.

As you can see in the picture above, the heat sink absorbs the heat from the LED chip. If the heat sink weren’t in place, then the light wouldn’t last very long. Note that there is usually a fan built within the light that blows air at the heat sink. The fins are important because they catch the wind from the fan and dissipate the heat quickly.

5. Spectral Wave Length – Spectral wave length is a big deal with LED lights. Remember from your high-school science classes that wave-lengths are classified by color. Red wave lengths are long and blue wave lengths are short.

One of the most exciting features about LED grow lights is that scientists can control the exact spectrum or colors of light emitted from them (the sun and HID lights emit all of the colors, humans can’t control them). This is a big deal because scientists have found that plants don’t use all the different colors of light when they are growing. This is readily apparent in the fact that plants are green (they are reflecting green light).

So why is spectral wave length a big deal when purchasing an LED grow light? Well, growing experts have found that red light induces flowering on a plant and blue light induces vegetation or growth. If you want one of these lights to help your plants flower, then make sure you buy one that emits light in the red wave-length spectrum. If you want a light that will help during the early stages of plant development (germination and vegetation) then make sure you get a light with a lot of the blue wave-length in it. If you want a light that will do it all, make sure you find one that has both red and blue light. This information should be readily available from any company you purchase these lights from.

6 – Beam Angle -The last important thing you’ll want to look at when buying one of these lights is the beam angle. There are three standard beam angles out there: 60 degree, 90 degree, and 120 degree angles. The 60 degree angle is much better when you are dealing with a taller plant. The light beam is more focused and intense meaning that it can get down to the lower levels of your plant. The 120 degree angle is better for covering a wider area. For instance you may want a light with a 120 degree light when you have several short plants that you want to grow under one light.

LED VS HID: The Great Debate

Many people want to know whether they should buy an LED grow light or an HID grow light. Well, I can’t answer that for you but I can give you some of the pros and cons of each light.

LED Advantages

• Efficiency – LED lights are much more efficient than HIDs. In other words they use a lot less energy.
• Heating – LEDs don’t put out near as much heat as HIDs. This means that you don’t have to spend as much money on cooling.
• Lifetime – Most LED grow lights last around 50,000 hours. HIDs last around 10,000 hours.

HID Advantages

• HIDs cost less initially. LED grow lights are expensive up front. It’s worth noting that many people think that LED lights save money in the long run due to electricity and heating savings.
• HIDs have a proven track record. They’ve been around a lot longer and more people know how to use them.

Conclusion
Well that wraps up our tour of LED grow lights. I hope you’ve learned more about these lights and why so many people are starting to use them. A special thanks to Chloe for letting me get the word out on her site. If you have time, stop on by my site to read my LED grow light reviews.

Having a patio that you can use at night time expands your living space when the weather permits. Patio lighting will make this area safer to use at night as well as transforming it into a beautiful, functional and inviting space. Just think by spending a small amount on a few patio lanterns, you effectively add another large living space to your home. This is way cheaper than building an extension or even a conservatory and will increase the value of your house should you ever choose to sell it.

Decorative outdoor patio lighting can transform your property at night time and there are many different shapes and sizes of lights that can help you light your property to its best advantage. You can find lanterns and lamps, tiki torches, patio string lights, or deck, security and solar lighting to put to good use in your garden or patio. If you choose eye catching lights you can accent your patio for maximum appeal.

Each type of patio light will have a different use – perhaps you want paper lanterns, patio string lights or garden torches for an evening party, perhaps you want to create an ambience with patio lamps or lanterns for relaxing meals or drinks outdoors in the evening or perhaps you want security lighting to discourage unwanted visitors. Whatever your purpose when choosing your patio lights you want to ensure they generate a warm glow that neither overpowers nor disappoints.

Points to consider when choosing patio lights

To create a great atmosphere on your patio with the use of lights is not just as simple as choosing a lantern design that you like. You need to plan out where you need lighting and what sort of light would be most appropriate for each place. This will give you some idea of the quantity of patio lights you require but you also need to consider your favourite lanterns for how strong the light is that they give out as well as the color. Too weak a light and you won’t be able to see what you are doing. Too strong a light and the ambience you were trying to create will be ruined. Also make sure that your patio and surrounding areas are safe. Stairs, paths and dark corners should be well illuminated.

To guide you through the wide variety of patio lighting available here are some of the main options available.

Lanterns and lamps

Lanterns are a popular choice of outdoor lighting for patios and decks. They differ in terms of how they are mounted, what they are powered by, what they are made of as well as how they look. Designs include historical looking lamps, modern sleek styles and everything in between. Some can be hung from walls or overhead, some are placed on tables, some are stand alone floor lamps, whilst others are combined as planter lamps. They can be powered by oil, kerosene, electric, rechargeable batteries or candles. Electric versions are reliable and cheap to run, but the light source itself is not as attractive as a natural flame. Oil and kerosene are easy to get hold of but you have to remember to stock up before you plan to use it. Candles are a very cheap option and give out warmth in addition to light. They can be used to highlight water features such as bird baths or ponds by floating them if there is no wind or they can be placed in mason jars with a sand base for more windy conditions. Lanterns can be made from painted steel, chrome plated steel, aluminium and brass – the latter being the best for staying rust free. Make sure you choose lanterns that are designed for the outdoors, being made of high quality weather resistant and waterproof materials. Floor lamps should have a heavy weighted base for stability and electric lanterns should come with a grounded cord and plug long enough for your needs. Those that provide for two levels of light are the best options so you can change the lighting from being functional to ambient and back again.

Tiki Torches

There is something that much more tropical about a tiki torch when compared to other patio lights. They help to create a more relaxed atmosphere for you to while away an evening on your patio. They are simple to install around a deck or patio by just driving the stake into the ground. If the ground is not easily accessible, they can also be held in a bucket of sand or cement or attached to a railing. They are easy to fill with oil – you just unscrew the lid where the wick is held, pour in your oil and re-fix the lid. They have a long burn time of 6-16 hours depending on size and if you burn oils such as citronella you will have the added bonus of keeping away those pesky bugs from your patio.  Paraffin oil is normally used if bugs are not your main concern and this burns smoke and odour free. The cheapest tiki torches are the bamboo styles that you can find everywhere from about $6 each but if you want to invest in a more stylish set, you can find those made from copper, stainless steel, aluminium or brass. They can be quite plain or very decorative complete with snuffer cap. You can find tabletop versions if you prefer and they even come as patio umbrella lights these days. Quality tiki torches can withstand light wind and rain, typically cost under $50 and are ideal for subtle lighting when entertaining.

Patio String Lights

Patio string lights are a series of decorative bulbs or LED lights spaced evenly on a string like cord. They give an attractive and clean, consistent look and can be linked to other strings to fit any size of patio. If you need to dress up your patio temporarily for a party or evening of entertainment, patio string lights are a must have. They can come with brightly colored bulbs or if you are less adventurous, different shaped but bright white bulbs.  You can add height to your lighting efforts by using them to highlight garden structures such as trees or trellises. If you do not have an electrical supply to your patio, you can find battery operated LED string lights, which have long lasting bulbs that do not attract insects. Inexpensive and easy to find patio string lights will help make your patio look elegant and inviting or you can buy a more fun set to take away with you when camping.

Deck Lighting

If you have a wooden deck rather than a stone patio, you can install deck lights into the deck itself. These are normally used to illuminate the edge of the deck for safety reasons and can be walked on without damaging them.

Solar Patio Lights

Solar lights are very easy to install as they do not need an electric power source and all of the wiring that this entails. The older style of solar lights that were a bit dim, have now been replaced with bright LED bulbs. These are more efficient and can provide many hours of light. The light is not sufficient to read by, but provides ambient light or illumination ideal to highlight any steps or paths you may have on or around your patio. They come in many new shapes and colors so you are not stuck with the lollipop style – you can branch out with square lamps to fit atop fence posts, different colored lights in the shape of tulips or even red ladybug design lights.

With so many lights, lamps and torches on offer, you will have no trouble finding the right kind of lighting for your patio needs at the right price. You can then move onto smartening up this extra useable space you have created with garden clocks, outdoor rugs, furniture and other exciting things!

Choosing garden decking lights is not just about finding patio lights that appeal to you from the wide range available, you must find purpose made lights that will finish off your deck to make it look as if they have been part of the design from the start.

Deck lighting should be functional and attractive. To use your deck after dark, some form of lighting is essential for your safety but it also enhances the look of your backyard whether or not it is being used.

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There are two power supplies for deck lights – solar power and low voltage systems. Solar power will provide accent lighting whereas low voltage systems due to their wiring into an electrical supply will provide stronger light that is guaranteed to be functioning whenever you turn it on.

Low voltage deck lighting systems are ideal for do-it-yourselfers as a transformer is used to reduce the electrical current, although you should always check any local code requirements. The transformer is plugged into a grounded outdoor power supply and converts the standard current into a safe 12 volts supply. Low voltage cable is then run between the transformer and the low voltage lights. These types of lights are energy efficient and more economical to run.

As well as differing power supplies, there are also two main styles to choose between – deck post lights, which can be mounted on the side or top of the posts, and recessed lights, which are sunk into the deck itself.

Take a look at our top picks for decking lighting and then please read on for a mini buying guide to help ensure you buy the right lights for your deck and some brief thoughts on installation.

Top Picks

Post Top Deck Lights – Set Of 6 Solar Powered ** Functional lighting

For a complete deck lighting set, these 6 super bright solar powered lights are easy to install on any surface and offer you up to 8 hours of spot lighting. They are of course weather resistant and have a photo sensor that automatically turns them on and off at dusk and dawn. Each light has 3 white LED bulbs so they are bright enough to light up your deck and railings but do not attract annoying bugs.

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Post Cap Lamps – Moonrays Solar Powered Black ** Accent lighting

These classy looking post cap deck lights add the perfect finishing touch to your decking. They are easy to install – just place them on the top of your post and fix with two screws – and being black will blend in with most other backyard furnishings. The casing and lens are plastic and the bulbs are white LED. They offer more accent lighting than functional lighting but look very attractive at night. As with all solar powered lights, they need to be placed in a sunny location during the day to ensure they charge sufficiently for night time illumination. These are very affordable post cap lights.

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Post Side Lamp – Moonrays Solar Powered Bronze ** Accent lighting

These Moonrays post side lamps are an attractive bronze color with a raised decorative leaf motif. For ease of installation, these solar deck lights are hard to beat. You don’t need low voltage wires, just a screw installed in your deck post and then you just slide the light into place. These lights can be mounted in minutes. The down light effect is provided by two white LED bulbs. They are made of a durable plastic and the accent leaf is metal. For a decorative light that provides just the right amount of light to the surface of your deck, these are a great and affordable option. You will probably need 6-8 units to gain the desired effect though and do not mount them more than 2-3 feet from the ground if they are to be used for functional rather than accent lighting.

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Recessed Deck Light – Low Voltage 6 Pack

This pack of 6 brushed stainless steel deck lights from Paradise are weatherproof, waterproof and rustproof. They are safe to use on your deck as they use a 12-volt lighting system. They are truly stunning and made to the highest standards. You could recess them into your deck or any stairs you have running around your deck or even in your garden. They come with everything you need for installation and are really affordable. Being wired, the installation is not as easy as with solar powered options, but the light output is brighter and guaranteed.

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Recessed Deck Lighting – Solar Powered

Recessed lighting is classy and elegant and although it can be a pain to have to cut holes in your deck to install it, the results are worth it. The beauty of these stainless steel and glass lights, in addition to their classy look, is that they are solar decking lights, so you have no need for low voltage wiring. The LED bulbs in these lights are blue giving a cool and different look to your deck at night-time. The beam of light is also strong and central, making them a little bit more unusual and interesting.

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Deck Lighting Buying Guide

Here are a few things to consider before purchasing your new deck lights:

Post lights – these are typically bigger so are more likely to give out more light, unless you use solar power. Post lights are easier to access and therefore easier to wire if you go with the low voltage systems.

Recessed lights – these are attractive as they are unobtrusive; you cannot trip over them. They are more complicated to install however and have tricky wiring to contend with unless you use solar powered versions. Being recessed you must cut out holes in your deck to locate them. This can be a time consuming job and you will need some level of competence in DIY tasks to do this neatly. You can also come across problems with the size of the holes you have created when you come to upgrade your system. On the positive side they are robust so they can be walked over and they often come in kits with detailed installation instructions.

Solar power – solar deck lighting is the easiest to install as there are no wires. They are also eco friendly and free to run, although they are more expensive in initial purchase costs. You need to ensure that where you plan on locating them gets adequate sunlight on a daily basis or they will not charge sufficiently to be of any use.

Bulb type – LED deck lights are best as they give out less heat so are safer. They also use less power so there are cost savings to be made. The bulbs last much longer but they do have higher upfront costs. They have a superior light quality but can also be too bright.

Weatherproof – make sure any deck lights that you buy are weatherproof.

Thoughts on DIY Installation

• Do you have the expertise to take on installation yourself? Screwing in a couple of screws for solar deck cap lights is a far cry from cutting holes in your decking and installation of a wired low voltage system.
• Check the weather before you start. For a complicated system you will need 2-3 hours per light to sort all of the cutting, drilling and wiring necessary.
• Think about how you are going to hide the wires on any non-recessed lights.

Get Your Deck Lighting Now …

Outdoor deck lighting can really finish off a beautiful deck. Make sure you plan the style and number of lights that you will need and think carefully about whether or not you are up to installing the system yourself if it is anything other than solar powered. Deck lights will help you mark out important features, such as steps, will illuminate your backyard area even if it is not warm enough to enjoy it and will generally extend your living space to the great oudoors.

Their soft, ambient lighting provides the perfect amount of illumination for decorating patios and backyards as it isn’t harsh or intrusive. Reminiscent of the stars at night, string lights bring a sense of romance and fun wherever they’re placed.

With a wide variety of styles and types to choose from, buyers are no longer limited to plain Christmas lights, although these are still very popular. Strings usually range from 10’-25,’ can be operated by battery, electricity or solar power, and have bulbs of varying sizes from tiny to rather large.

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Take a look at our top picks for outdoor string lighting in the areas of deluxe, fairy lights, solar powered, globe, novelty and paper lanterns.

Please then read on for a mini buying guide to help ensure you buy the right lights for your garden as well as do’s and don’ts for setting them up and a few pointers for caring for your new lights to make your investment last longer.

Top Picks

Deluxe – European Cafe Style

These upscale outdoor light strings offer a 35’ length of cord with 7 weatherproof sockets covered by 7″ galvanized shades. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, these heavy duty string lights are well made to last a long time. They take large or small watt bulbs to achieve the look you desire and can be spray painted if required to match any existing color schemes. The elegant look of this set of string lighting makes them the perfect addition to any outdoor area, including decks, overhangs and gazebos. They are well worth the investment.

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100 LED Fairy Lights

Priced more economically these cool white fairy lights bring to mind a garden party. Their long-lasting LED bulbs eliminate short circuits and the hassle of having to change burned out bulbs too often. These environmentally friendly, reusable lights actually save money, thanks to their reliability and minimal power consumption. Each 30’ 100 light strand has its own digital controller that allows you to choose from eight distinct lighting patterns. Their only downside is that you cannot chain them to other sets. No longer just for Christmas, these lights brighten up any gathering or even any wedding, camping trip, kitchen, attic … and the list goes on.

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100 LED Solar String Lights

Ideal for decorating bushes, umbrellas and doorways, this 35′ length of 100 solar powered outdoor string lights require no power outlet and hence no dangerous extension cords and cost nothing in energy bills. They are powered by solar panels that allow the lights to be placed in shady areas. In fact they can be placed anywhere, you are no longer limited to only lighting areas close to a power source. They automatically turn on and illuminate the night for up to eight hours when fully charged. These outdoor string party lights are a great addition to any backyard.

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Globe String Lights

The Aurora Glow Glass Solar String Lights are six handcrafted, hand blown glass globes equipped with LED lights on a 25’ string. These exceptionally beautiful outdoor globe string lights are easy to install around a tree or deck railing, or as an accent woven underneath an umbrella. Solar powered and equipped with a photo light sensor, the lights turn themselves on at twilight and go off at dawn. These enchanting lights are available in purple, clear, sea glass or amber and come with copper hanging hooks. Each globe is just under 3″ wide and should be spaced 22″ apart on the string. The solar panel can be staked into the ground or attached to a fence post up to 15′ away.

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Novelty – Butterfly String Lights

If you’re looking for something a bit more unusual, this 10′ string of fiber optic butterflies may be just the ticket. There are 10 colorfully glowing butterflies in shades of yellow, peach, pink and lavender. They light up your garden, a room or a window with unusual fiber optics and are reminiscent of a fairy garden. The light they give out is not huge, but they are perfect for soft or mood lighting. You will need an extension cord to get them from a power outlet to where you want them but their one-of-a-kind look makes it all worth it.

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Paper Lantern String Lights

Lastly, to set a true party tone, these multicolor outdoor lantern string lights are a very inexpensive way to decorate. They are traditional Japanese Shoji hanging lanterns crafted from rice paper and steel wire in beautiful shades of pink, yellow, orange, purple, green and blue. The perfect way to add a festive glow to any celebration, this 10’ strand set includes 10 paper lanterns which are 3.5″ in diameter. These are not really suitable for the outdoors so make sure you pack them up and take them in when you call it a night.

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Outdoor Lighting String Lights Buying Guide

Here are a few things to consider before purchasing your new outdoor string of lights:

Bulb size – this covers the physical size of the bulb as well as the wattage. If the bulb size is too small it will get lost in the look of your backyard and the opposite could be true of large lantern style lights. You also need to think about how bright you want each light on the string to be and buy lights and bulbs accordingly.

Length of string – how far from a power source do you want your lights to be? Obviously this is not an issue if you are using solar lights. You also need to think about how long a stretch you want the lights to cover. Some strings can be joined end to end to extend the area that can be covered so look out for this if this would be useful to you.

Power source – battery or solar powered strings are ideal as you do not need to have access to a power socket in this case.

Type of bulb – LED bulbs are better than incandescent as they are more efficient and safer.

Weatherproof – make sure any string lights that you plan to leave outside for periods of time are weatherproof.

Color of bulb – white is the most common but it may be worth mixing white lights with some colored ones for a more fun effect.

Do’s and Don’ts When Setting Up Your Lights

• Do hang them appropriately and safely. Tie them with twine and avoid sharp nails or staples.
• Do keep them out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do not place them in locations where they will blind guests when they are sitting down.
• Do not place them where they will shine into neighbors backyards.

Caring For Your Lights

Outdoor decorative string lights will last longer if you take proper care of them. Here are a few tips:

• Clean them regularly.
• Bring them inside during the winter months or rainy season.
• Keep them in a sunny place so they will dry out from any rain.
• Make sure they are fastened down in a non-windy place.

Get Your Outdoor String Light Now …

Generally, outdoor lighting options are created to make your patio or garden standout even when night falls. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, parties or simple get-togethers, string lights can make any event more memorable. When used well, outdoor string bulb lights can transform your patio, garden or any other place in your house from nice to fantastic. A few strategically placed lights in the right places works more wonders than you can imagine.

A bit of patio lighting can make your space viable for any time of day.

With many different options available for lighting, ranging from deck lighting, step lighting, fountain lighting, moon lighting, silhouette, and shadow lighting, you can transform your living space from an ordinary patio into something with ambiance and atmosphere.

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Planning your patio lighting is key to the success of the overall look and functionality as well as to you keeping to a budget. If you buy a set of patio string lights one week, a few tiki torches the next and then decide a month later that you want some deck lighting, the chances are that you will spend more than you need and end up with a disjointed look. So grab a pen and paper and let’s come up with some realistic patio lighting ideas. Start by sketching your patio and surrounding garden and use the following information to jot down the exact lighting that you need to buy.

Number of lights

The number of lights you need will depend on a number of criteria.

First you need to decide what outdoor events your patio will play host to. Do you have large outdoor parties, barbecues with neighbors, or just romantic meals with your other half? Each event will require different lighting, so note them all down to ensure they are covered in your overall plan.

The size of your patio will play an important part in the number of lights that you need. Get out your tape measure and take down the length and width. This will ensure your string lights are going to reach from end to end for example.

Finally you need to ensure that you adequately light any potential hazards. Where would lights help to make your patio and garden safer and more secure?

Brightness

Patio lights don’t need to be very bright. The key to patio lighting is to provide just enough light to move around outside without spoiling the experience of being outside. Most low energy patio lights provide just the right amount of low illumination. While brighter lights exist, they’re only necessary in certain situations.

Function

Outdoor patio lights can be separated into three groups.

General Lighting

The first and least relevant for patio lights is general lighting, which provides broad spectrum cover over the entire area. Lighting of this type is neither atmospheric nor pleasant to spend time in and is not recommended for your patio.

Task Lighting

When considering your patio light needs, identify the areas of the patio that require localized or task lighting first. These may include a barbecue area, or any locale where cooking or food preparation occurs.

This kind of lighting must be bright enough to see by but not so bright that it illuminates the entire patio, spoiling the ambiance and limiting your enjoyment of the space.

The type of lights used for patio task lighting are generally of the downlighter variety, or patio umbrella lights, which keep light in a narrow path. They also include small lights, such as exterior candles.

Task lighting also includes lighting paths, walkways, or other areas that may present a tripping hazard. Deck lighting can be a great tool for highlighting or spotlighting changes in height, drop-offs, or deck-edges. By doing this, you create a dramatic effect as well as a safer deck. Step lighting allows you and your guests to find your way up the steps and through the yard in safety. Step lighting can be placed beneath railings, on vertical posts, or recessed into the steps.

In general, patio lighting should be sparingly utilized in functional areas because it’s likely that the patio is being used to sit and appreciate the evening rather than squint in the glare of light. Patio string lights are a good way to illuminate a large area and they provide just the right amount of ambient light.

Accent Lighting

Once the task lighting needs have been ascertained, areas that require particular display should be established and illuminated with accent lighting. Creating accent lighting gives you the opportunity to express yourself. With a large variety of lights from which to choose, accent lights typically highlight a particular feature.

Subjects of accent lighting could be a statue or sculpture, a planting bed with topiary trees, or a fountain that causes the light to contrast with the moving water. Accent lighting, unlike task lighting, tends to throw light upwards at the subject matter, thereby creating shadows that highlight the look of the object.

Various forms of accent lighting include moonlighting, shadowing and silhouetting. To create moonlighting, place light fixtures up a tree and shine them downward. The light will filter through the tree branches, causing an effect like the moon shining down.

Another technique designed to highlight interesting shapes is shadowing. By placing a light fixture in front of the item that you want to shadow and aiming it so that the item will cast its shadow, you can showcase items that you may have in your garden, including branches or sculptures.

Silhouetting is another form of patio lighting that underscores an object’s shape. To create a silhouette effect, place a light behind the subject and shine it upward against a vertical surface, such as a wall.

Style

The style or look of patio lighting that you choose is generally going to come down to personal preference. Just make sure you try and tie the various different lights together in some way, whether that is by having them all the same color, or all made from the same material.

If you fancy some of the more interesting styles of specialty lighting, such as fairy lights, Japanese lanterns or Tiki torches, use them sparingly so as not to overwhelm the atmosphere and mood of the patio.

Power source

The final consideration you have to deal with is the how your lights are going to be powered. Your basic choices are solar, battery and electrical options. Each has its own pros and cons in terms of initial cost, ongoing costs and ease of installation so bear this in mind before you buy.

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Patio lighting can create wonderful effects and make your nighttime patio experience more enjoyable. Lighting is useful for accentuating the best parts of your garden and patio. And, just as importantly, patio lighting makes your patio and yard a safer place at night. When deciding which type of lighting to use in your home, determine which particular elements you want to spotlight and think about what looks best as a silhouette or shadow. Finally, consider which areas of your patio could become a hazard if a person cannot see them. With a detailed plan in hand, before you start shopping, you cannot go wrong!

Traditionally made from bamboo, tiki torches originated in the Polynesian culture and have since become popular in contemporary society.

Often used at island-themed parties to enhance the ambiance and create a tropical atmosphere, tiki torches are also utilized as decoration on a patio or around a pool. They can transform a simple patio into an island paradise.

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If you are new to the use of tiki torches, read on to find out exactly what they are, why you should choose them over other forms of patio lighting, their disadvantages, how to ensure they are used safely, which fuel to choose and a mini buying guide.

But first take a look at our top picks for tiki torches in the areas of cheap, bronze, stainless steel, elegant, solar powered and make your own.

Top Picks

Cheap – Classic Bamboo Tiki Torches

Inexpensively priced at around $6 you can buy this traditional bamboo tiki torch with a refillable fuel canister, fiberglass wick and a fire retardant finish. These would be the perfect patio lights addition to a luau.

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Bronze – Set Of Two 36″ Deck Torches

These affordable and attractive dark bronze tiki torches can burn for between 6 and 8 hours with their 12 oz oil canister. And they really are dark bronze, not the light color they appear in the picture. They are sturdily designed and rust resistant to a degree although you should probably put them indoors over the winter. They come with c-clamps to allow for easy fitting deck lighting. Buy a few pairs to deck out your deck!

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Stainless Steel – Pack Of Two 65″ Cylinder Shaped Tiki Torches

For a more contemporary style stainless steel tiki, this pack of two tall torches will add sophistication to your outdoor space. The fiberglass wick lasts forever and the snuffer cap is attractive. Just wipe off any oil drips from the stainless steel before lighting.

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Elegant – Set Of 2 Strathwood Pewter Finish Torchieres

For the ultimate in elegance, these two 72″ rust-resistant, funnel shaped lamps add stylish functionality to your patio or deck. The lamps sit in black iron curved brackets which sit atop black iron stands.

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Solar Tiki Torch – Paradise Lighting

These solar patio lights combine the native tiki look with modern lighting. They offer you the tropical island feel without having to use open flames or burning oil. The solar batteries charge during the day and give out between 6-8 hours of realistic, flickering amber LED light at night. The frosted enclosure makes it look as though a candle is held within. Just make sure they are placed somewhere that gets full sunshine during the day.

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Make Your Own – Copper Wine Bottle Torch Kit

If you’re interested in making your own tiki torch, this kit takes any empty wine bottle and turns it into one. It comes complete with a five foot copper coated stake that can be height adjusted, a dual prong base for extra stability, a long lasting reusable wick and copper bottle plug. The only problem is you’ll have to drink some wine, to get an empty bottle!

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What Are Tiki Torches?

Measuring about five feet in height, outdoor tiki torches are decorative poles topped with a fuel reservoir and wick. The stem of a tiki torch is hollow and can be sunk into the earth or put in a pot for more temporary use. The fuel reservoir itself is typically either a metal or plastic container that holds lamp oil, paraffin oil or citronella oil, housed in a woven holder. The bottle’s lid, which is equipped with a metal top and an attached cap, holds a bound cord wick which hangs down into the tiki fuel. To extinguish the torch, the metal cap is placed over the burning wick. Usually, the cap stays closed over the wick when the torch is not being used in order to protect it from dampness.

Why Choose Tiki Torches

Tiki torches should feature somewhere in your patio lighting plans. They can be placed anywhere as they do not need any electric power source, they can be moved around easily, they produce natural rather than artificial light and give that tropical island or party feel to your outdoors. You don’t even need a garden to use them as you can just anchor them in deep plant pots and place them around your patio or deck.

Disadvantages Of Tiki Torches

The main disadvantages of tiki torches arise from them using real flames. Obviously this can be dangerous if safety precautions are not followed.

Tiki Torch Safety

• Ensure your tiki torches are fixed well into the ground so that they cannot topple over. Push them firmly into soft earth and use large rocks to keep them secure.
• Keep the wick trimmed so that there is less opportunity for any spilled fuel to catch fire.
• Only fill the fuel container to about two thirds of its capacity, again to reduce the potential problem of spilled fuel.
• Do not place tiki torches near to anything flammable, including trees with overhanging branches, bushes, people, kids or pets. Keep them a safe distance from the area you plan to be using.
• Ensure you have a working fire extinguisher to hand. Accidents do happen so it never hurts to be prepared.

Which Tiki Torch Fuel To Choose

Your choice of fuel will to some extent be determined either by where your tiki torch will be situated, the type of torch, what is available to you and what your intended use for the torch is.

Paraffin oil/kerosene – is an odorless, smokeless oil so will allow your tiki torches to provide light without interfering with yours or your guests enjoyment.

Citronella – is used when you want to repel any unwanted bugs which is quite often, making it the most popular fuel. Even if not used for lighting, tiki torches with Citronella are often found being utilized just for this purpose. It does have a mild lemony smell though.

Gas – gas powered tiki torches can be found but the fact that they need to be connected to a tank makes them less than ideal. They do have the advantage of being able to burn more or less continuously, but do require more maintenance to keep clean.

Solar power – in recent years, modern tiki torches have evolved, using solar energy rather than an open flame. These more eco-friendly, convenient torches use a solar panel that converts sunlight into energy, thereby charging the batteries and producing light. Because there is no fire, solar tiki torches can be placed anywhere in the yard and withstand a windy evening. However, solar-powered tiki lights tend to emit a dimmer light than that of their traditional counterparts.

Tiki Torches Buying Guide

There a plusses and minuses associated with each of the different types of tiki torch but here are a few things to consider before purchase:

Material – Bamboo and cane, while inexpensive, tend not to last as long as their sturdier metal counterparts. Aluminum, on the other hand, is prone to rusting over time. Copper weathers well, changing its patina over the years, and becoming uniquely antique in appearance.

Price – Tiki torches vary in price depending upon the style and material used in their construction. Bamboo models are typically inexpensive, starting at under $5 while more expensive models, like aluminum or copper, can cost up to $40.

Design – This will generally be dependent upon your personal taste and what other lighting or furniture you already have on your patio. Don’t forget to consider table top versions as well as the tall stake variety.

Features – Most tiki torches come with snuffer caps, but consider other features that may be on offer such as adjustable heights, extra anchoring prongs for stability etc.

Fuel – Ensure you can use your preferred fuel in the torch that you choose.

Number – How many do you need? Make sure you know where you are going to place them before you buy them and then buy them all in one go as you may not be able to get matching ones later on.

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Tiki torches add a warm weather atmosphere to the outdoors. You can consider them for an early evening beach wedding, to illuminate your garden’s entry ways or pathways or as party props for a jungle theme or oceanside luau. They are the perfect way to set the mood and tone, while providing ambient lighting at the same time. As the tiki torch flames dance and flicker in the warm, evening breeze, you can almost hear the gentle sounds of waves lapping the beach. If you’re one of the fortunate few that live in the tropics, then this scenario is probably second nature to you. For the rest of us, however, we have to live through our imaginations, with our backyard tiki torches.

Outdoor patio umbrella lights come in three different types, according to their position relative to the umbrella.

Umbrella Chandeliers

Umbrella chandeliers are affixed to the pole, and spread an array of lights or candles along the inside-top of the umbrella. These can be surprisingly inexpensive for the degree of elegance they impose. If you want to impress your guests, this is the option to choose. Umbrella chandeliers can turn a patio festivity into an exquisite dinner party.

The most significant distinguishing factor between umbrella chandeliers is their power source. While battery-operated chandeliers are wireless, they may become a pain if frequently used. Some models prefer to use candles rather than artificial light, as they do not require as much maintenance, while providing a natural, romantic ambiance. $30 is not too much to spend.

Patio Umbrella String Lights

This category of patio umbrella lighting refers to the strings of lights that are affixed to either the ribs of the umbrella or hang from the tips. They are festive (more so for the hanging bulbs), classy (more so for the rib-attachments), and involve very little hassle. The preferred models use LED lights, which do not attract insects, and the bulbs do not need to be replaced very often. The downside is that most models require an outlet to plug into. Some models of patio umbrella light, however, use solar power to recharge battery power during the day, then a light detector turns them on as the sun sets. These are more expensive and typically require a small device to be attached to the top of the umbrella. Some patio umbrellas come with the light and solar panel already installed. (Prices range from $15 and up.)

Table Lights

If all of the above seems like a bit too much hassle without the payoff, then a mere, tried-and-true table light could be the right answer. Outdoor candles are a possibility, and there have been a number of breakthroughs, including the development of candles with chemicals that deter insects and pests from approaching the table. Alternately, there are LED candles, which are battery-powered, completely harmless, and which do not attract insects to begin with. These start at a lower price than the previous categories ($3).

An interesting alternative to the entire idea of umbrella patio lights is to use string lights, hung strategically around the back yard to provide enough ambient light to eat by. While it requires more planning and a bit of flair, these displays can be extremely impressive, and cheaper than one would initially think. Globe Party lights, called G40s and G50s, run for around $1 per bulb, and may be affixed in any number of ways to trees, pedestals, tables, and umbrellas. The great part about using globe lights is that they can branch out from the table/s approaching the power source overhead rather than underfoot.

Miniature Light Strings: Christmas, Icicle, and Net

Miniature lights are typically the size and shape of a candle flame and can be found on Christmas displays everywhere. Coming in multiple colors or plain white typically, these patio string lighting displays are historically the ‘bread and butter’ of Holiday decorations ($1 for 10 lights). The icicle and net varieties may be found, as well, though are not as common. Icicle lights, as the name implies, resemble icicles (a number of small strands are connected to the main line, hanging down under an awning or wainscot, like icicles; ($1 for 2-3). Net lights similarly are what they sound like – a number of lights splayed out in a net ($1 for 10).

Stock Holiday Lights: C7 and C9 LED Lights

These are the acorn-sized patio light strings that are most often seen around the holiday season. People drag spools from their closets and go about the task of testing each strand to see which bulbs need to be replaced. The bulbs retail for around $1 each, more for C9 bulbs, and the spools are sold for about $1 for each 3 sockets. The frequency of sockets is variable as are the coloration of the bulbs.

Globe Party Lights: G40 and G50 Lights

This category of patio string light is the next step up in size, with bulbs a little larger than walnuts. Clear bulbs or those of any color are available on a variety of differently colored cords. Sets retail for approximately $1 for each light and typically come in strings of 15 or 25. As shapes vary considerably, they may be used for various occasions, including weddings, parties, halloween, and so on.

Rope Lights

Also found quite often around the holiday season, rope lights are used to wrap around trees or to form outlines of figures, such as Santa’s sleigh and reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, etc. Most come with removable sections and will list the length of each of these sections – i.e. “Cuttable every 5 ft.” Prices vary, depending on voltage, dependability, cuttability (<$1 per foot), and whether it is chasing or not. Chasing rope lights are much more expensive ($2-$5, depending on programmability), and are designed to give the impression of movement along the rope.

Floralytes

The odd-light-out in this collection of string lights are floralytes – they are not strung, but rather involve independently battery-run lights which may are used most often for weddings in floral arrangements (as the name suggests). They are fairly expensive ($3 per light) and are often disposable, which is why they are most often used for once-in-a-lifetime events. Some of the higher-end models are even submersible, for use in pools, ponds or vases.

Refer to this resource whenever brainstorming for any patio string lights display, be it for personal use or a party/event.

There are some indisputable advantages to using solar patio lighting. Changing to the new technology with a solar patio light means: no more wires running across the deck, and no more batteries. Solar powered devices recharge their own batteries, which only need changing every 2 years or so, entailing a significant reduction in hassle/danger.

Solar power is more environmentally friendly for the same reason that it is more economically friendly to you. Because these devices use their own, natural power source, they do not require ‘feeding.’ The amount of money required to power a 100 watt light bulb for 10 hours is anywhere between 5 and 10 cents, so a solar outdoor lighting system can save you a number of dollars per month.

Solar powered patio lights are also high-tech and trendy. While this may actually be a disadvantage for some consumers, depending on the style of the backyard, it is an important asset among younger crowds who value environmentally-friendly thinking and initiatives. Solar-powered appliances tend to imbue their owner with a progressive, distinguished, sharp air, the use of which should not be underestimated at social functions.

Most models use photo sensors to turn on automatically when the sun has set. This feature makes them extremely easy to use, as well as a deterrent to crime. Battery charge typically lasts between 8 and 10 hours after nightfall, which continues the luminescent display until sunrise, or close enough to it to ensure that all unsavory activity has ceased. There are solar spot lights that are particularly geared for these purposes.

But there are some disadvantages associated with solar power, though the market is in the process of adapting to them, lessening their impact, etc. For example, previously, solar power patio lights employed the use of bulbs that broke frequently. Now, however, almost all models use LED lights, which conserve power and have extended life-spans. Another perk of using LED lights is not attracting insects to the sources of light.

Another historical problem has been the fragility of solar panels, which were not designed to withstand the elements. Now, however, most outdoor solar patio lights incorporate the solar panel into the light itself, rather than having an attachment that sticks out at an odd, unwieldy angle. These innovations have made solar power as durable as the alternatives.

The market has, at this point, expanded to such an array of devices that each has a unique purpose, whether it be for the patio, tableset, pool, yard, path, or flower patch. Many of these more specific models cost quite a bit more than their counterparts, but there are basic models available at cheap prices that will cover all of a consumer’s basic needs.

When parked at night, the awning still provides a useful service. RVs tend to look the same, and specialized RV lights, which are easily attached to the awning, can make the trailer stand out from the crowd, helping to serve as a beacon for any passengers who wander out into the park, as well as attracting interested visitors to see the camper.

That is not mentioning the advantages of having a light to read by, or to see other campers by. There are some alternatives to the type that affix to the awning, however, and these range from kerosene powered lamps ($10) to any number of similarly priced lanterns.

All of these appliances are relatively easy to store. Kerosene lamps, while not as safe as electric lanterns, still pack away for travel easily with a spare case of kerosene. Battery operated lanterns will last long enough to be almost as convenient as the awning bulbs.

Still, there are some better alternatives. Garden lights, which stick into the ground, may be found fairly easily, and these may be used around the perimeter of the RV. These can provide just as impressive a display as the RV patio lights, and it is more unique to choose this option. The downside is cost, as the number of devices required by this sort of display would add up to a fairly significant figure. Sets of lamps may be purchased for $40 and up.

But neither of these options are as impressive as the RV awning lights which hang from the awning, nor is there the variety. Awning lights are popular, which results in increased innovation and unique design. An added advantage to the awning lights is that they can use the canvas ceiling as a reflector, casting ambient light on the area rather than shining directly into everyone’s faces. For instance, one can opt for a minimal ambient light that attaches to the middle of the awning and emits two bars of yellow light across the bottom of the canvas, reflecting onto campers with a soft comforting glow.

If the RV does have an awning, then there are a whole lot of options to choose from, ranging in price from globes that hang ($10) to more fine-tuned displays. Making one’s own RV patio light is always an option, for which one only needs a set of awning hooks and any patio string lights one would choose.