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Jan 13, 2026

Are you planning an outdoor lighting project? If so, one of the things you need to do is decide between wired and solar fixtures. While both can enhance your landscape’s beauty, safety, and functionality, each comes with its own pros and cons. At Abulous Lighting, we leverage extensive expertise and knowledge to help you navigate the installation process smoothly and invest in the right landscape lighting system. Our technicians engage with you and ensure you understand the difference between these systems. Let’s delve into these landscape lighting systems to ensure you choose the best fit for your property, budget, and goals.

Solar Landscape Lighting

Solar lighting is a popular option for homeowners looking for a sustainable and low-maintenance way to light up their outdoor spaces. If you have a landscape lighting installation planned, here are the advantages of solar systems you need to know.

Easy Installation

Solar lighting does not require wiring, making installation quick with the help of a licensed electrician. You don’t have to worry about digging trenches or tearing down hardscape features to install; as solar fixtures keep your spaces intact. A professional electrician can complete the installation in a few hours, allowing you to resume daily activities as soon as possible.

Energy Efficient

As the name suggests, solar lighting is powered entirely by sunlight. Installing solar fixtures significantly reduces your home’s electricity usage and protects the environment. With the world shifting toward more sustainable solutions, investing in solar lights contributes to a greener and safer planet.

Disadvantages of Solar Lighting

Now that you know the pros of solar outdoor lighting, let’s delve into the cons to ensure you make the right decision.

Depends on Sunlight

As mentioned, solar lighting depends solely on the sun. This means they are only effective for several hours a day and may not light your outdoor spaces when there’s no sun. If you live in an area that rarely receives sunlight or a shaded area, expect limited performance.

Shorter Lifespan

Solar lighting systems require batteries to function. However, the lifespan of these batteries is usually 1-2 years, which means frequent replacement and additional expenses. If you want a durable and reliable landscape lighting system, solar may not be the best option for your backyard.

Wired Landscape Lighting

When comparing outdoor lighting systems, it’s crucial to note that wired fixtures are reliable, flexible, and offer superior brightness. Let’s explore the advantages of wired landscape lighting fixtures you should know.

Bright, Reliable Illumination

Unlike solar lights, wired fixtures are typically more consistent and brighter. This means you do not have to worry about inconsistencies or low illumination during periods when there is no sun. A licensed technician can strategically install fixtures to ensure your backyard is safe, well-lit, and aesthetically pleasing.

Customizable Layouts

Wired fixtures require a transformer and wiring. This means that electricians can assess your layout and create a tailored design with multiple control options for different zones. Whether you want to create a functional space or enhance the safety of your yard, a licensed technician can help achieve the desired effect.

Disadvantages of Wired Landscape Lighting

One of the main drawbacks of wired landscape lighting is that it requires extensive expertise to install. Although DIY landscape lighting installation may seem cost-effective initially, it requires electrical knowledge, trenching, and careful planning. With this in mind, hiring a licensed technician is the only option.

Another disadvantage of installing a wired system is the upfront cost compared to solar fixtures. Between wiring, fixtures, a transformer, and the installation of a wired landscape lighting system, the total cost is significantly high. If you are on a budget or looking to save money on your outdoor fixtures, a wired system may not be the best option.

Call a Landscape Lighting Expert

Choosing between wired and solar landscape lighting doesn’t have to be challenging. Contact Abulous Lighting to create a custom plan that enhances your home’s security, beauty, and functionality without breaking the bank.

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Happy Customers Saying

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Kimberly Buckland

Absolute Lighting installed my outdoor flood lights 2 years ago and they are beautiful! They did such a great job that I used them to setup and take down the Christmas lights for the past 2 years. I would highly recommend them. Frank always responds to questions and automatically puts me on the schedule for set up and take down of the Christmas Lights.

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Graham Antin

We love Abulous lighting and have been using them for years  They are very responsive and professional and  will come back no questions asked for any follow up work  Good pricing and highly trustworthy  Frank, the owner, is a true  stand up guy.  I recommend without reservation

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Allan Conlan

Frank and the team at Abulous were great to work with. They came out and retro-upgraded some previous lighting that we had done a few years back and made it look as seamless and continuous as possible. They also worked with us on the best (& most economical) way to light up a hard to reach area of our yard. They also followed up with us after we had another group of workers "disturb" some of the lighting wires and came back out and fixed everything back up again. Very friendly, dependable local resource who do great work. Highly recommend.

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Mike Thomas

After reviewing multiple companies we contracted with Abilous Lighting to create outside accent lighting for our home, backyard patio, walkways, & fire pit.  Their ideas and design were the best!   It was a pleasure working with Frank Hasty, who did  the design, and his crew of Brandon & Rusty who performed the work.  All were excellent to work with.   We are very happy with Abulous Lighting.