How to Light Up Your Water Feature

Lighting really brings out the magic of your water feature after dark, whether it's a rambling stream, a peaceful pond or a spectacular fountain. For the lighting-effect to give the most impact, it all comes down to technique. It's been said that lighting water features can be complicated, but here are some tips to keep in mind when creating beautiful effects with low-voltage lighting over your water feature.

Set the mood

Effective lighting transforms a water feature, enhancing the feeling of tranquillity. They aren't just for enjoying during the day but can also play a big part in your garden's attraction at night too. You could position the lighting so that it skims the surface of the water to create a calm, mirrored surface. If the feature includes a waterfall, when the water moves, a glimmering effect will be created. To emphasise the calming mood you wish to create, make sure that it's the lighting that people see, and not the wiring. During the construction phase of your water feature, keep in mind wires that need to be hidden. Otherwise, if it's after the fact, then it's just a case of disassembling then reassembling parts of your water feature to hide wires and other parts.

Use sufficient light

Because water dispels light, not using enough light won't give as big an impact. When submersing lighting, you need to add additional lights for added effect. This depends on the clearness of the water, how deep it is and what you are trying to illuminate. Dark stones will absorb light, whereas light coloured ones will reflect it.

Get creative with the layout

Play around with the fixtures to get the desired effect you want. You can test the effects of the light fixtures in your bath, with a hose and see what happens when you let the water fall or trickle. Experimenting will allow you to discover what works the best. If you submerse lights, you could find that you don't get the light to show where you hoped it would. Remember that even if you aimed the light at a statue, water bends light. Adjust placement until you get it right.

Consider your pond life

If you have fish in your pond, keep their environment pleasant for them by providing an area for them that will remain dark. Create a cave or just a corner where they can hide if they want to. Also keep in mind, in smaller ponds your lighting can actually have an effect on the water temperature, causing variations that the fish might not be able to handle. You should always only use fixtures made of safe materials such as stainless steel or polycarbonate, never use toxic copper or zinc.

Maintenance of your set up

A lighting system requires ongoing care and maintenance. Often plants can grow over, covering lights. You can get mulch piling up in front of your fixtures. Also keep a check on the wiring, in case of any damage to it. It's recommended to do a clean and reposition of your light fixtures at least every three to six months, depending on the amount of plants you have surrounding the area.

Use good quality lights

Many people today are going with LED lights. Although, they may cost more to purchase than traditional lighting, they will cost you less in the long run. They use less energy and they are longer lasting. LEDs are also designed these days with better colour temperatures, being warmer than the harsh, blue tint that they shone when they first came out. Stick to using good brands and manufacturers that offer warranties. Check out our lighting range here.