When entertaining outdoors, a well-lit landscape is essential. You don’t want guests tripping in the dark or accidentally falling into the pool. Light Emitting Diode (LED) lights have become the industry standard for outdoor lighting due to their low energy consumption and long lifespan. Some LED lights even offer an added benefit: the ability to change colors. 

What Are Outdoor Color-Changing Lights? 

Different LED lights typically emit one of three colors: red, green, or blue. Each LED light can emit only one color. However, Red, Green, and Blue (RGB) LED lights combine a red, green, and blue LED within a single housing. By varying the intensity of each color, the housing can emit one of 16 million color options. These lights can even be programmed to emit white light. 

Why Add Color-Changing Lights? 

LED lights are energy-efficient, emit very little heat, and are easily controlled through smartphone apps. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. RGB LED lights can change color, which allows for versatile use. For example, during football season, they can shine red for the Chiefs, and blue for the Royals during baseball season.  During the Christmas season they can glow red and green.  For the Fourth of July, they can be red, white, and blue. If your HOA regulates the number and type of flags you can fly, you can express the same sentiment through your outdoor lighting. 

Types of Outdoor Color-Changing Light Controllers 

To change the color of your outdoor lighting, you’ll need RGB LED lights. There are four common methods used to control color changes: 

Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) Lights 

PWM lights are rapidly turned on and off at varying intervals. By controlling the intensity of the bulb, different colors can be created. Mood strips commonly use this method. 

Digital Control 

Digital control allows a program to turn the lights on and off to produce varying colors. This method is easy to use and can also be programmed to create lighting patterns. DJs, musical productions, and other events that require fast-changing lighting often use digital controls. 

Digital Multiplex (DMX) 

DMX controllers enable users to manage several lighting features from a single control board. This method is used in professional settings, such as musicals and live events, where multiple lighting elements need to be controlled simultaneously, similar to a soundboard. 

RBG Controllers and Remotes 

RGB controllers and remotes are commonly used by homeowners. The remotes send signals to the controller, adjusting the light settings. A smartphone app makes it even easier to change colors. 

How Much Do Color Changing Lights Cost? 

RGB LED lights tend to be more expensive than standard white or single-color lights. Part of this cost comes from the controller and remote or app required to operate the lights. However, they are not prohibitively expensive, and many homeowners find the ability to vary their lighting worth the extra cost.  Depending on the system you use and if it is controlled by individual lights or by the main controller these systems can run anywhere from $300 – $1000 per light or even more with all the wiring, transformers, timers, and labor to install.  As with any custom projects there are many variables that can influence the final cost of the project. 

Outdoor Lighting Maintenance Tips 

One of the great benefits of LED lights is their long lifespan—up to 50,000 hours when properly maintained. To keep your lights in optimal condition, regularly clean them to remove dust and dirt that can obstruct the emitted light. Use a soft cloth and a non-abrasive cleaner, and always turn off the lights before cleaning. 

While cleaning, inspect the power cables for any damage or wear, ensuring proper connection. Periodically check the controller for potential issues before they cause problems. If you’re using a standalone remote, remember to replace the battery when necessary to ensure continued functionality. 

Managing Wildlife Attracted To Lights 

Outdoor lights often attract insects, and subsequently, insect predators like bats, frogs, and toads. LED lights generally attract fewer insects than other light types. Yellow or amber LED lights, in particular, are known to attract very few insects. Additionally, programming the lights to turn off when no one is outside can help prevent attracting insects. 

RGB LED lights are becoming more affordable and widely available. If the idea of changing the color of your outdoor lights appeals to you, installing RGB lights could be a worthwhile investment. The convenience of using remotes and smartphone apps makes these lights a more practical and reliable option compared to traditional colored bulbs, which often burn out or are limited to a single color. 

We Can Help

Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping can help install or maintain your LED lights.  Schedule a consult and we will help you light up your world.