Trystan Casey
Installing electric sidewalk lights is a great way to improve the safety and security of your home. It can also enhance the appearance of your yard, walkways, and gardens. While it may seem like a daunting task, it is possible to do it yourself with the right tools and knowledge. The first step is to obtain the necessary electrical permits and ensure that your installation follows the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local codes. You will also need to decide on the location of your light fixtures and plan the trench and conduit accordingly. This may involve digging a trench, running electrical wire, and connecting the wiring to a power source. Finally, you will need to install the light fixtures and set up a timer or photo sensor to control the lighting.
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What You'll Learn
Planning and preparation
Firstly, decide on the location of your light fixtures and the light switch that will operate them. Measure the distance from the fixture location to the point on your house where you will install the light switch, and then from the switch location to the circuit breaker panel. This will help you determine the length of cable you need and the path you will need to create for the wiring.
Next, you need to obtain the necessary permits and inspections. Contact your local building department or a state office to acquire an electrical permit. Additionally, before you begin any digging or burying of cables, schedule a wiring inspection with an electrical inspector. This step is crucial to ensure your project complies with safety regulations and local codes.
Now, it's time to plan the path for your wiring. If you need to run wiring under a sidewalk, look for a large gap in a control joint, as this can be an ideal place to cross. If there isn't a suitable gap, you'll need to excavate a small opening on one side of the sidewalk and cut out a strip on the other side. If you need multiple cables to cross, use a piece of EMT conduit (a rigid metal conduit) to protect the wires and make it easier to drive them under the sidewalk.
Before you start digging trenches and holes, be mindful of any obstacles, such as trees, and plan your path accordingly. Dig a trench that is at least 12 inches deep, connecting the power source point to the fixture location. If you encounter any fire blocks, be prepared to drill holes to accommodate the cable. Remember to pile the excavated dirt on a strip of plastic next to the trench to keep it out of the way.
Finally, with your plan in place, you can begin the installation process. Turn off the main circuit breaker in your home's electrical panel before starting any work involving electrical wiring. Now you're ready to wire the light fixture and switch, following the manufacturer's instructions, and then connect the cable to the GFCI circuit breaker.
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Digging trenches and holes
First, determine the location of your light fixture and the light switch that will operate it. Measure the distance between the fixture location and the point on your house where the power cable will exit. This will guide the placement and length of your trench.
Next, start digging the trench. The recommended depth varies, with some sources suggesting 12 inches, while others suggest 18 inches or more. It's important to check with your local regulations and the National Electrical Code (NEC) to ensure compliance and safety. Remember to call your electrical inspector to schedule a wiring inspection before you bury the cable.
When digging the trench, use a spade to remove the grass and soil. Be careful when approaching sidewalks or paths; it's recommended to do so at right angles for easier tunneling. If you encounter a fire block, you'll need to drill a hole or create a notch to accommodate the cable.
Additionally, if you need to run multiple cables under the sidewalk, consider using EMT conduit (rigid metal conduit). Measure and cut the pipe to fit, then pound down the ends to pinch them together, preventing dirt from getting inside. Drive the pipe under the sidewalk with a sledgehammer, ensuring it remains level.
For single wires, a long flexible drill bit can be used. Excavate a small opening on one side of the sidewalk and cut out a strip on the other side, about 1 foot long and 4 to 5 inches wide.
Remember to plan a straight section of trench beside the walkway to provide room for driving the conduit underneath. Once your trench is complete, dig a posthole at the end, about 2 feet deeper than the trench, to receive the light pole post.
Finally, ensure you follow safety precautions. Turn off the main circuit breaker before any electrical work, and never work in a panel box unless you are knowledgeable and comfortable doing so.
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Running electrical cables
Planning and Preparation:
Before beginning any installation work, it is important to check with your local building department or a state office to obtain the necessary electrical permits and ensure compliance with relevant codes. Additionally, consult a professional electrician if you are uncomfortable working with electrical systems.
Running the Cable:
- Identify the Location: Determine where you want your electric sidewalk lights to be positioned. This will help you plan the route of your electrical cable.
- Dig a Trench: Dig a trench that is at least 12 inches deep (some sources recommend 18 inches) connecting the power source to the fixture location. Approach sidewalks or paths at right angles for easier tunneling, and plan a straight section of the trench alongside the walkway to provide room for driving the conduit.
- Install Conduit: Use a rigid metal conduit (EMT conduit) to protect the electrical cable as it runs underground. Measure and cut the conduit to size, ensuring a 6-inch overhang on each side of the sidewalk. Pound down the ends to pinch them together, preventing dirt from entering the pipe.
- Drive the Conduit: Use a sledgehammer to drive the conduit under the walkway, keeping it level and straight. Remove any grass or obstacles that may interfere with the conduit.
- Pull the Cable: Feed the electrical cable through the conduit, ensuring it is securely attached. Pull the cable through the trench and up to the fixture location.
- Install Junction Boxes: At both ends of the conduit, install junction boxes that are designed to sit flush with the ground and withstand being run over by mowers or other equipment.
- Connect the Cable: Push or pull the coloured wires (typically white, black, and green) through the junction boxes. In the box nearer the house, fit an inlet or reverse socket for an extension cord. In the other box, fit a normal outlet.
Final Connections:
- Wire the Light Fixture: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to wire the light fixture correctly. Ensure that the light fixtures are rated for "wet locations" if they are exposed to the elements.
- Wire the Light Switch: Install the light switch box in the wall, typically about 60 inches up from the floor. Wire the light switch according to the manufacturer's instructions and connect it to the GFCI circuit breaker.
- Final Testing: Before turning the power back on at the main circuit breaker, ensure that all connections are secure and properly insulated. Once the power is restored, test the lights to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Remember, always prioritise safety when working with electrical systems. If you are unsure about any aspect of the installation, consult a professional electrician to ensure a safe and compliant installation.
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Installing light fixtures
Planning and Preparation:
Firstly, decide on the location of your light fixture and choose an appropriate light switch to operate it. Ensure you comply with local codes and the National Electrical Code (NEC) to avoid any warranty issues and potential safety hazards. Obtain the necessary electrical permits from your local building department or a state office. Before you begin any digging, carefully plan your trench route, avoiding tree roots and approaching sidewalks or paths at right angles for easier conduit driving.
Digging the Trench:
Dig a trench that is at least 12-18 inches deep, connecting the power source location at your house to the fixture location. If you need to run wiring under a sidewalk, look for an existing gap in a control joint and deepen it, or excavate a small opening on one side and cut a strip on the other. Use a flexible drill bit for single wires or EMT conduit for multiple cables. Ensure the conduit is rigid metal to prevent corrosion and provide adequate support.
Installing the Wiring:
Run the cable through the trench and, if necessary, under the sidewalk using the chosen conduit method. Bury the main cable from the power units no more than 6 inches under the ground level. Attach the fixture wires to the main cable with a suitable cable connector. Ensure the fixture wires are not buried and are close to the fixtures. If using a weatherproof box, mount it and protect the cable by running it through a conduit from the trench bottom to the box.
Final Connections:
Wire the light fixture according to the manufacturer's instructions, and then wire the light switch. Connect the cable to the GFCI circuit breaker. Test the setup by turning the power back on at the panel box and circuit breaker. Finally, program a timer or set up a photo sensor on the transformer to automate the lights' operation.
Remember, always exercise caution when working with electrical systems, and if you feel uncomfortable or unsure about any step, consult a professional electrician for assistance.
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Final connections and testing
Final Connections:
- Ensure that the light switch box is securely installed in the wall, typically about 60 inches from the floor, as per standard guidelines.
- Connect the cable to the GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) circuit breaker. This is an essential safety feature that will protect you against electric shocks.
- Turn off the main circuit breaker before proceeding with any wiring work. Remember, even with the main breaker off, wires from the power company remain energised, so exercise extreme caution.
- Wire the light fixture according to the manufacturer's instructions. Each fixture will have specific requirements, so refer to the provided manual.
- Wire the light switch. This will allow you to control the lights once the wiring is complete and the power is turned back on.
Testing:
- With the wiring complete, turn the power back on at the panel box and circuit breaker.
- Test the lights by turning them on. Ensure they illuminate properly and that the connections are secure and functioning.
- If your lights have a timer or photo sensor, set them up now. This will allow your lights to turn on and off automatically based on your preferences.
- Check that the lights turn on and off according to the programmed settings. Adjust as needed to ensure optimal performance.
- Conduct a final inspection to ensure that all connections are secure and that the lights are functioning as expected.
- If you have any concerns or are unsure about the installation, consult a professional electrician. They can review your work and ensure it complies with local codes and safety standards.
Remember, working with electricity can be dangerous. If you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with electrical work, it is always best to seek the assistance of a qualified electrician.
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Frequently asked questions
Before installing electric sidewalk lights, you must obtain an electrical permit from your local building inspections department or a state office. You should also ensure that your lighting installation complies with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local codes. Failure to do so may result in serious injury and/or damage to the luminaire.
First, identify whether there is a large gap in a control joint under the sidewalk. If so, deepen and clean out the gap with an old screwdriver. If not, excavate a small opening on one side of the sidewalk and cut out a strip on the other side. Then, run a long flexible drill bit under the sidewalk to install the wiring.
Dig an 18-inch deep trench from the location of the power cable exit to the fixture. Run the cable through the trench and pull it through the wall. Wire the light fixture and light switch according to the manufacturer's instructions. Finally, connect the cable to the GFCI circuit breaker.
Always turn off the main circuit breaker before working with electrical wiring. Be cautious when working in the panel box as the wires coming from the power company are still energised even when the main breaker is off. Ensure that your light fixtures are rated for "wet locations" if they will be exposed to moisture. Additionally, avoid installing luminaires within reach of small children, as they can become very hot, depending on the lamp wattage used.
