Outdoor lighting is important for many reasons. For one, you can safely navigate your yard, steps and walkways at night using outdoor path lights. And, if you want to create the perfect ambiance on your deck or patio, string lighting can enhance the atmosphere for relaxing or entertaining.

Outdoor landscape lighting is crucial around any area where you or others will be walking in the dark. In particular, ensure you light all steps and uneven ground surfaces thoroughly. Meanwhile, outdoor string lights can be as classic or funky as you choose. For a fairy light look, pick a warm white or ivory set of lights. If you want to have more fun, look for outdoor string lights that change color or light up in patterns, giving an extra boost to your outdoor parties.

You can also help protect your property from trespassers with outdoor security lighting. If you are choosing a home security system, consider using your outdoor security lights in coordination with other home security devices like outdoor security cameras and a home security system.

Depending on the kind of outdoor light fixtures you’ve chosen, you may need to consider a power source for your new outdoor lights. Solar lights are the simplest to set up because they just need to be somewhere that gets sun during the day. Other designs, like outdoor string lights, can plug into an outdoor outlet. And some models, like outdoor wall lights and certain security lights, can be hardwired into your electrical system.

When it comes to choosing and setting up outdoor lights, think about both practicality and aesthetics. If you have an outdoor lounge area, some mood lighting from string lights or a firepit might be perfect. On the other hand, for an outdoor dining set or outdoor kitchen, you probably want slightly brighter lights.

To use any outdoor space comfortably at night, you may also want to consider the perks of outdoor heaters. Heating can make your space usable for all or most of the year. And for highlighting specific features or improving nighttime visibility, an outdoor spotlight is a smart and stylish addition.