5 Common Mistakes People Make When Installing Landscape Lighting Themselves
Should You Install Landscape Lighting Yourself?
Outdoor lighting seems simple at first glance: buy a kit, plug it in, bury some wire, and done. But creating a system that’s safe, long-lasting, and visually impactful takes more planning and technical skill than most homeowners realize.
At Ecotek Outdoor Lighting, we’ve seen hundreds of DIY jobs — and many of them end up costing more to fix than to do right the first time. Here are the five most common mistakes we see with DIY landscape lighting installations.
Mistake #1 – Poor Fixture Placement
Most DIY installs rely on symmetry instead of strategy. Path lights are lined up like runway lights. Uplights are aimed too high or too wide. The result? Harsh shadows, glare, and hot spots.
What to Do Instead:
Use multiple fixture types and vary spacing. A well-designed layout uses contrast and layering to create a natural, inviting feel.
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Mistake #2 – Underestimating Voltage Drop
Low-voltage systems lose power over distance — and if you don’t account for that, the far end of your lighting run will flicker or appear dim.
What to Do Instead:
Use thicker gauge wire, proper voltage taps, and balanced loads. We calculate voltage drop on every run to ensure your entire system stays consistent and bright.
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Mistake #3 – Using Cheap Fixtures and Lamps
Big box store kits might look affordable, but most are made with aluminum or plastic housings and generic LED lamps that won’t last more than a year or two — especially in Florida’s heat and humidity.
What to Do Instead:
We use brass or composite fixtures and commercial-grade LEDs that maintain color temperature, beam spread, and brightness over time.
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Mistake #4 – No Plan for Expansion or Maintenance
DIY systems are usually built without a plan for future growth. That means running out of transformer capacity, overloading wires, or having to rip up your yard later.
What to Do Instead:
Professional systems are designed with room to grow — and easy access for servicing. We also offer Maintenance Plans to keep your system running flawlessly year-round.
Mistake #5 – Ignoring Safety and Code Compliance
Improper wiring, bad splices, and exposed connections are not only unreliable — they’re dangerous. DIY installs can short out, overheat, or even damage surrounding plants and structures.
What to Do Instead:
We use watertight gel-filled connectors, solid burial-rated wire, and clean conduit runs where needed — all to code, and all built to last.
The Smart Move? Start With a Pro
DIY lighting often leads to frustration and costly do-overs. At Ecotek, we make it simple — we handle the design, installation, and long-term maintenance with zero guesswork and full customization.
We serve homeowners, HOAs, and businesses across Central Florida — and we’ll show you real product demos during your consultation so you can see the difference.
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Want It Done Right the First Time?
Let’s design a custom lighting system that fits your home, your goals, and your budget — with no mistakes. Fill out the form below and we will reach out with the next steps.