How to Change an LED Pool Light

Posted 2024-03-21 07:17:22

If you're looking for a way to revitalize your pool, consider swapping out your halogen lighting for LED pool lights. These vibrant colors create an impressive underwater illumination for inground pool owners and their guests. But it's not just about aesthetics - LED pool lights are also energy-efficient and can save up to 75% more energy than halogen lights. This means significant savings on your energy bill over time.

Some people may be hesitant about the higher price of LED lighting. However, those who make the switch are investing in a long-term solution that requires less frequent replacement. By eliminating the need for constant light bulb replacements, LED pool lights offer substantial savings in the long run.

How to Make the Upgrade Officially

Step 1

Before purchasing your LED pool lights, you need to know the voltage rating of your current pool lights. The most common voltage ratings are 12, 24V, and 32V. You can find this information on the transformer of your pool lights, which is usually located near the switch or in the wall of your house.

Step 2

Ensure that the power to your pool is completely turned off before replacing the lights. The best way to do this is by turning off the power at the circuit breaker.

Step 3

Remove the pool light fixture from the pool wall. This may require unscrewing a screw at the top of the light. In some pools, the light may be located deeper in the water, requiring you to actually enter the pool. Don't forget to wear goggles, especially if you need to submerge underwater to see the screw.

Step 4

The light fixture will be anchored to the niche with a long cord. The cord should be long enough to place the light fixture on a clean towel or other soft material beside the pool. Pay close attention to how the cord is fastened in the niche or conduit, as you will need to put it back in place when swapping the light. Sometimes, figuring out how to replace that cord can take longer than replacing the light itself.

Step 5

Disassemble the light fixture. You may need to remove clamps and screws on the outside of the light frame to access the light. Then disconnect the cable. Some cables can be detached from the terminals, while others will need to be cut. Cut it as close to the light fitting as possible to have maximum cable length.

Step 6

At this point, you will need to figure out how to mount the new light. Remove the holder that previously held the pool light against the wall. Some LED lights come with universal holders, which have multiple hole configurations. The advantage of this is that you can use the existing holes in the pool wall. If the light doesn't come with this holder, you will need to lower the level of your pool below the light and drill new holes to match the holder of the new light. Screw in the new holder.

If you have a fiberglass pool, consult your local pool store on how to install the new light.

Step 7

Connect the new light to the existing cable. If the light has terminals, strip the wire and screw it into the terminals, ensuring you maintain the correct positive/negative polarity.

If the light doesn't have terminals and comes with a cable already attached, you will need a cable connector or wire nut. Follow the instructions that come with it.

Step 8

Put the light back into the water. Wait to see if any bubbles escape once the light is in the water. If air escapes from the outer edge of the light, it's not properly sealed. Remove the light from the water, dry it, remove the screws and clamps, and seal it again.

Step 9

You may need to get back into the water to put the cord back to its previous position behind the niche in the pool. Once the cord is in place, press the light fixture against the wall or into the niche. Secure it with the screw at the top of the light. Forgetting this screw might require you to repeat this step within hours or days.

Step 10

Go back to the circuit breaker and turn on the power to your new LED pool light. Once the power is on, the LED light should work correctly and cycle through its range of colors.

LED Lights Create a Mood Enhancement

Switching to LED pool lighting doesn't have to be an intimidating task. It requires a bit of patience to remove all the components of the light fixture and some confidence to replace it underwater. Once the light fixture is out of the water, the process is usually intuitive. Pool owners who haven't done it yet will likely make the switch eventually.

LED pool lights have become a standard in the industry. Aside from being energy-efficient and cost-effective, these lights are known to enhance mood. With a simple flick of a switch, pool owners can set the tone for their backyard and the guests who visit.