Landscape Lighting Calculator
Design effective outdoor lighting for your garden, path, or yard by calculating total wattage, spacing, and fixture requirements.
List of the Best Landscape Light:
How to Plan Landscape Lighting Effectively
Landscape lighting is both functional and decorative. It enhances safety, adds curb appeal, and allows you to enjoy your outdoor spaces after sunset. Whether you're lighting a small garden or a large yard, our calculator will help you determine the right number of fixtures, spacing, and total wattage for optimal coverage and aesthetics.
Common Outdoor Lighting Types
- Pathway Lights: Low-level lights along walkways to guide movement and prevent tripping hazards.
- Spotlights: Focused beams to highlight trees, statues, or architectural features.
- Floodlights: Wide-angle lights for general illumination or security purposes.
- Accent Lights: Decorative or mood-enhancing lighting, such as uplights or downlights.
- Security Lights: Motion-activated lights for entry points and dark corners.
Fixture Spacing Recommendations
Proper spacing ensures even lighting without over-saturating or creating dark patches:
- Pathway: 6–8 feet apart
- Spotlight: 10–15 feet apart (based on beam angle)
- Floodlight: 15–25 feet apart
- Accent / Uplight: 4–6 feet apart
- Security: 20–30 feet apart
Formula to Estimate Fixture Needs
To estimate how many fixtures you need:
Total Wattage = Number of Fixtures × Fixture Wattage
Example Calculation
For a 40 ft path using 10W LED pathway lights spaced every 8 ft:
- Fixtures = 40 ÷ 8 = 5
- Total Wattage = 5 × 10W = 50W
Tips for Outdoor Lighting Design
- Use low-voltage (12V) systems for safety and energy savings
- Mix uplighting and downlighting for visual depth
- Use warm white LEDs (2700K–3000K) for a cozy glow
- Shield fixtures to reduce glare and light pollution
- Use timers or photocells to automate schedules
Power Supply Considerations
- Use a transformer that matches or exceeds your total wattage
- Leave 20% buffer to prevent overload (e.g., 80W load = 100W transformer)
- Distribute wire runs evenly to prevent voltage drop
Fixture Materials and Weather Resistance
- Brass & Copper: Durable and corrosion-resistant
- Aluminum: Lightweight and affordable but may oxidize
- Stainless Steel: Sleek but may require cleaning
- Always check for IP65+ waterproof rating for durability
Frequently Asked Questions
What wattage should landscape lights be?
Most LED landscape lights range from 3W (accent) to 20W (flood/security). Pathway lights typically use 5–10W LEDs.
How far apart should I place landscape lights?
It depends on the light type. Pathway lights should be spaced every 6–8 feet, while floodlights may go up to 25 feet apart.
Can I mix different light types?
Absolutely. Combine path, spot, and accent lighting for layered depth and beauty.
Is low-voltage lighting bright enough?
Yes, especially with modern LEDs. A 10W LED can easily match a 40–60W incandescent output.
Do I need a professional to install landscape lighting?
If you're using plug-and-play systems or solar, DIY is fine. For wired low-voltage setups, basic knowledge of wiring and transformers is helpful.
Should I use solar lights?
Solar lights are easy to install but may offer less brightness and reliability. Use them in areas with ample sun and lower brightness needs.
Do landscape lights use a lot of energy?
No. Most LED fixtures are extremely efficient, consuming just 3–20 watts per fixture.