Installing a Decorative Outdoor Pole Lamp

Safety Glasses
Wire Stripping Pliers
Screwdrivers (Common flat-tip and Phillips)
2' or 3' Level
Electric Drill (½ " Chuck with appropriate size bits, masonry and wood)
12/2 with ground UF-B (or equivalent) Direct Burial Electric Cable of sufficient length to reach power supply.
50lbs. Concrete Mix (Along with water, trough and paddle for mixing)
Spade Shovel
Post-Hole Digger (optional but preferred)

Outdoor lighting along walkways and drives adds a unique dimension to your landscaping plans while also providing safety and security. One type of outdoor lighting popular with many property owners is the traditional pole lamp. Myriad designs are available and as such, there is one for every pocketbook. Without considering the style or design you may choose, these tips and techniques are intended to see you through the installation procedures.

Beginning at the point or location chosen, proceed to dig down to a depth of at least 2'. Many lamps are wired with a grounding provision and the 12/2 UF-B should be connected as such if required. (See Manufacturer Warranty and/or information sheet regarding this issue)

Note: If a ½" stress coupler is not provided to anchor cable to post, then one should be procured and installed.

Once wiring is completed at the post, concrete can be poured into the hole and filled to about 3" or 4" below ground level. Stabilize your post and check with a level along vertical for alignment.

Note: Trenching with your spade shovel can be quick and easy with the following tips.

Spade shovel sod on three sides and then fold over taking care not to tear the sods. Place all further removed soil from below sod directly across from it and each subsequent sod as well until reaching final destination. It is recommended to trench down 12"-18" to lay cable. Lay a few feet at a time and cover with removed soil. Fold sods back in place as you do.

Note: Good watering regularly will ensure re-stitching of sods with one another and leave the ground looking good as new!

If power source is originating inside home or garage and a drilled entry is required, proceed to do so as needed with the appropriate bit as outlined in "Tools and Materials." Some applications are hardwired to existing outdoor power sources directly with switching. These lamps use photocells only, to come on and turn off with daylight and evening hours. Others that are switched, can be wired directly into fusebox or breaker box. While 12/2 conductors are recommended, a 15 amp breaker will provide the correct protection for your pole lamp.

Switching provisions are entirely up to you. When you know where you wish to locate switch and have installed necessary box, then wire a single pole switch into white neutral conductor. The warm ambiance of well selected and well placed outdoor lighting brings out the best in all landscaping projects.

Remember, always work safely.