As you look outside your window, you notice that your outdoor landscape lights are flickering. What could be the cause of this issue? Also, how can you fix these outside lighting fixtures that flash on and off? We researched this concern for you and here’s what we found.
Outdoor landscape lights might flicker or flash frequently because of different reasons. These possible suspects can range from faulty components to low batteries.
Troubleshoot the outside lighting fixture to find the source of the issue. Then, use a fitting solution that solves the problem at its source.
It's best to gain a good understanding of these potential culprits. That way, you can use the correct solution to eliminate the problem. So continue reading as we talk about why your outdoor landscape lights are flickering and the ways you can fix them.
Why Are My Landscape Lights Flickering?
Troubleshooting your flickering landscape lights may help you find the source of this issue. Take note that this problem may come from different origins, including:
Faulty Components
The general construction of a typical outdoor landscape light will often have a transformer, bulb, mount or stand, and a wiring system. Pests, harsh weather, or other objects that might bump into these fixtures may cause the lighting system to encounter damage, resulting in flickering.
Low Voltage
Lawnmowers and other landscaping equipment may go through connections attached to outdoor landscape lights. If so, the bulbs could receive lower voltage than intended, making them turn on and off frequently.
Bad Bulb
Bulbs, regardless of type, often have a lifespan. For instance, LEDs usually last about 50,000 hours or more than 11 years. On the other hand, a standard incandescent bulb only lasts approximately 750 hours before issues such as flickering appear.
Low Battery
This particular suspect to outdoor landscape lights flashing on and off is often exclusive to solar- or battery-powered fixtures. Recharging the battery or solar cells connected to these fixtures may reduce or eliminate the flashing concern.
You might also be curious if cold weather can affect solar lights. If so, check out our post on that subject to know the answer.
How Do You Fix Landscape Lights That Flash On And Off?
Remember to troubleshoot your outdoor lighting system before attempting to use any repair or replacement method. Then, use the right means to solve the frequent flashing at its source.
Replace The Bulb
It’s a good idea to turn off the circuit breaker connected to the offending outdoor landscape light before you touch it. That way, you can avoid accidents and injuries that might come from electrocution.
Watch this video if you need help in turning off your property’s power supply from the electrical service panel:
With the power off, go to the offending lighting fixture and study its design. It’s because the following steps may vary depending on the architecture and construction of the landscape light.
Nonetheless, here are the general steps to replacing a bulb from an outside landscape light:
What You’ll Need
- Replacement bulb
- Screwdriver
Step-by-Step Guide
- Unscrew the faceplate covering the bulb. Make sure to keep the screws in a safe place.
- Disconnect the bulb from the rest of the fixture.
- Install the replacement bulb into its mount or bracket.
- Screw the faceplate back into the fixture.
Check out these replacement landscape replacement LED bulbs on Amazon.
Don't forget to watch this video to gain additional insight into changing outdoor landscape lightbulbs:
If you’re also wondering how to replace an outdoor LED bulb, read our post highlighting that matter to know the steps.
Charge The Battery
If you have solar lights for your outdoor lighting needs, here are the typical steps to recharge its power cells:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Turn off the solar landscape light.
- Ensure that the solar panel is facing the direction of the sun.
- Adjust the solar panel during cloudy days if necessary.
- Connect the solar panel to the outdoor light with its appropriate cords.
- Wait for the power cell to fully charge before turning on the light.
You can also watch the video below if you need a visual guide for the steps mentioned above:
Rewire The System
Broken, cut, or stripped wires usually mean that you need to replace these parts to remove the flashing from your landscape lights. So follow these steps if your troubleshooting efforts lead you to faulty wires to be the source of the issue:
What You’ll Need
- Wire cutters
- Wire crimper
- Waterproof connectors
Step-by-Step Guide
- Turn off the power source that’s feeding electricity to the offending landscape light.
- Use the wire cutters to cut and remove the wire on the problematic area.
- Disassemble and remove the connector from the wire assembly.
- Crimp or strip a small amount on the ends of the wires.
- Feed the stripped areas into the waterproof connectors.
- Twist the connector to secure the connection.
- Turn on the power to check if the flickering problem persists.
Check out these wire cutters on Amazon.
Keep in mind that you can call a reliable electrician if you believe that you lack the confidence and/or skill to go through with this rewiring project.
Watch this video for a visual guide to this procedure:
How Do I Reset My Landscape Lighting Transformer?
Resetting the outdoor landscape lighting’s transformer might help in repairing recurring problems, such as flickering. So, the first thing you need to do is to search for the transformer’s location. Once found, continue this procedure by following these steps:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Pull out the cover securing the transformer’s internals. Set it aside temporarily.
- Turn off the switch underneath the circuits.
- Wait for about 1 minute before returning the switch to its on position.
Watch the following video if you need a visual representation of this procedure:
How Do You Find A Short In Landscape Lighting Wire?
Generally, searching for a short circuit in a lighting installation can be a tricky affair. But you can make the job easier than expected with the help of these guidelines:
- Follow the wires from the transformer to the lighting fixture. Then, take note of any anomaly that you find.
- Ensure that the toggle switch in the connected transformer is in the correct position. If it’s not, the built-in fuse might be faulty.
- Open the property’s electrical service panel and look at the circuit breaker connected to the landscape lighting system. Check the breaker for signs of tripping.
- Make sure that the fittings attached to the lighting fixture and its transformer are secure.
- Ensure that the wiring and other connections are in the correct attachments or terminals.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace An Outdoor Light Fixture?
Outdoor lighting replacement costs usually range from $20 to $1,000. The overall expenses often depend on certain factors, such as the fixture’s material and the property’s location.
However, it’s possible to reduce the expenses by doing some or all of the steps of the replacement procedure using DIY techniques. Otherwise, you may need to prepare to spend $40 to $200 for professional outdoor light replacement services.
Final Words
Keep in mind that the first step to eliminating the frequent flickering of your outdoor landscape lights is to find the source of the issue. Then, stay safe during the troubleshooting and repair procedures to prevent accidents and injuries. If done correctly, your outside lights should stay on or off when needed.
