Best Wattage For Outdoor Lights (2025 Update)
If you're looking for the best wattage for outdoor lights, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. First, think about the size of the outdoor space you want to illuminate. Larger spaces will require higher wattage to evenly light up the area. On the other hand, smaller spaces may only need a lower wattage to create the desired effect.
Next, consider the purpose of the outdoor lighting. If it's for security purposes or to light up a driveway or sidewalk, a higher wattage may be necessary to provide ample visibility. However, if the lighting is solely for aesthetic purposes, lower wattage options may suffice. It's also important to consider the type of bulb being used as different types of bulbs have different wattage requirements.
To make an informed decision on the best wattage for your outdoor lights, consider asking these questions. Do you want a warm or cool-toned light? Do you want the lighting to be motion-activated or on a timer? What is your budget for the outdoor lighting project? By addressing these questions, you can determine the best wattage for your outdoor lights and find a product that meets your specific needs and preferences.
10 Best Wattage For Outdoor Lights
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Ideal for outdoor lighting with a Mediterranean touch, featuring seedy glass and three lights producing 120 watts in a bronze finish.
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This outdoor wall sconce is ideal for traditional and early American style homes and provides 120 watts of bright lighting.
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This outdoor pendant hanging lantern is ideal for illuminating outdoor spaces with a classic early American style design.
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This product is ideal for outdoor lighting with a heavy-duty and stylish design that provides 120 total watts of light.
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The product is ideal for outdoor post/pole mount lighting with 3 lights, 180 total watts, and a Mediterranean style.
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Ideal for outdoor lighting with a classic and durable design, featuring 3 lights and a water glass shade.
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Ideal for outdoor lighting with a classic American design featuring seedy glass and three lights totaling 180 watts.
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Ideal for outdoor lighting with a decorative touch, providing 2 lights at a total of 11 watts.
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Ideal for outdoor lighting with seedy glass, aluminum construction, 3 lights, and a total of 180 watts.
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10
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Ideal for outdoor lighting with heavy-duty, water-resistant materials and three bright lights providing a total of 120 watts.
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1. Mediterro Outdoor Wall Sconce – 3 Lights
The Dover Outdoor Wall Light is an exquisite lighting addition that will add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. With dimensions of 24.5" High x 10" Wide x 13" Deep and a weight of 8.25 lbs, this wall light is the perfect size for illuminating any outdoor area.
Featuring 3-40 Watt E12 Candelabra Incandescent Bulbs, the Dover Outdoor Wall Light provides a total of 120 watts of bright, vibrant light. It is important to note that bulbs are not included with the product, but the light is fully dimmable, allowing for complete control over the level of illumination.
For easy installation, the Dover Outdoor Wall Light comes with hardware that allows for easy mounting to an existing junction box. However, the junction box itself is not included. The light has been UL approved for wet locations, making it a safe and reliable option for any outdoor space, regardless of weather conditions.
Constructed of cast aluminum with a bronze finish and a seedy glass shade, the Dover Outdoor Wall Light is both stylish and durable. The seedy glass shade adds a touch of elegance to the design, while the cast aluminum construction ensures that the light will withstand the test of time.
2. Maxim Traditional Outdoor Wall Sconce In Bronze
Introducing the Carriage House Outdoor Wall Light, a stunning lighting fixture that is sure to elevate the ambiance of any outdoor space. With dimensions of 26.5" in height, 12.5" in width, and 15.5" in depth, and weighing 11.5 lbs, this fixture is both substantial and eye-catching. The backplate measures 15.5" in height and 6.5" in width, with a height center of 13.5".
The Carriage House Outdoor Wall Light boasts a lighting system that includes three 40 Watt E12 Candelabra Incandescent Bulbs, totaling 120 Watts. Please note that bulbs are not included, but the fixture is dimmable, allowing for versatile lighting options.
Installation of the Carriage House Outdoor Wall Light is a breeze, as it comes with all necessary hardware to mount the fixture to an existing junction box (junction box not included). Rest assured that this fixture is UL approved for wet locations, ensuring safe and reliable operation in all types of weather.
Constructed of cast aluminum with an oriental bronze finish, the Carriage House Outdoor Wall Light is both durable and stylish. The water glass shade adds a touch of elegance to the overall design, making this fixture a true statement piece.
3. Crown Hill Clear Glass Pendant Lantern, 4-Light.
The Crown Hill Pendant is a stunning lighting fixture that is perfect for any home or business. With its sleek and modern design, it is sure to impress anyone who sees it. This pendant has a height of 25.25 inches and a width of 10 inches, making it a great size for any room. It also has a weight of 12.32 lbs, making it a sturdy and durable piece.
The Crown Hill Pendant requires 4-40 Watt Incandescent Bulbs to function properly, which are not included with the purchase. It has a total wattage of 160 watts, and is dimmable for customizable lighting options. Installation is made easy with the included hardware to mount the fixture to an existing junction box, although the junction box itself is not included.
The Crown Hill Pendant is UL approved for DAMP locations, meaning it is safe to use in areas with high humidity levels such as bathrooms or covered outdoor spaces. It is constructed of cast aluminum with a sleek black finish and features a clear glass shade, adding to the modern and sophisticated look of the fixture.
4. Maxim Carriage House Outdoor Sconce – Heavy-Duty Brilliance.
The Carriage House Outdoor Wall Light is an impressive piece of lighting that exudes elegance and style. With its dimensions of 31" high, 14" wide, and 18.5" deep, and a weight of 20.94 lbs., the light offers ample lighting coverage while adding a touch of sophistication to any outdoor space. The backplate measures 15.5"H x 7"W, and the HCO is 13", making it easy to install on an existing junction box using the included hardware.
The Carriage House Outdoor Wall Light is designed to accommodate three 40 Watt E12 Candelabra Incandescent Bulbs, providing a total of 120 watts of light. Please note that bulbs are not included, but the light is fully dimmable, allowing you to adjust the brightness to your desired level.
The light is UL approved for wet locations, making it perfect for outdoor use in all weather conditions. The Carriage House Outdoor Wall Light is constructed of Vivix, a material that is twice the strength of resin, non-corrosive, UV resistant, and backed with a 5-Year Limited Warranty. The Oriental Bronze Finish and Water Glass Shade add to the light's elegance, making it a perfect addition to any outdoor space.
5. Scottsdale Seedy Glass Outdoor Post Mount – 3 Light
The Scottsdale Outdoor Post Light is a perfect addition to any outdoor space. The dimensions of this light fixture are 25.5" in height and 12.5" in width, with a weight of 20.7 lbs. It features a 3-60 Watt E12 Candelabra Incandescent Bulbs, with a total wattage of 180 watts, but bulbs are not included. This light fixture is also dimmable, providing you with the flexibility to adjust the lighting to your desired level.
Installation of this light fixture is made easy with the included hardware to mount it to an existing junction box. However, the junction box is not included. The Scottsdale Outdoor Post Light is UL approved for WET locations, making it perfect for use in outdoor spaces.
Constructed with durability in mind, this light fixture is made of steel with a Country Forge finish, giving it a rustic yet modern look. The seedy glass shade adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to the overall design.
6. Maxim Carriage House Outdoor Wall Sconce
Introducing the Carriage House Outdoor Wall Light, a stunning addition to any home's exterior. The dimensions of this fixture are 26.5" in height, 12.5" in width, and 15.5" in depth, with a weight of 8.8 lbs. The backplate measures at 15.5"H x 7"W, with a HCO of 13.5".
This wall light offers a total of 120 watts, utilizing 3-40 Watt E12 Candelabra Incandescent Bulbs. Please note that bulbs are not included and the fixture is dimmable.
Installation is made simple with the included hardware to mount the fixture to an existing junction box. However, please note that the junction box is not included.
This outdoor wall light has been UL approved for WET locations, providing peace of mind and ensuring it is safe for outdoor use.
The Carriage House Outdoor Wall Light is constructed of Vivix, a material that is twice the strength of resin, non-corrosive, and UV resistant. It also comes backed with a 5-Year Limited Warranty. The oriental bronze finish and water glass shade create a beautiful and classic look that will enhance any home's outdoor decor.
Upgrade your home's exterior lighting with the Carriage House Outdoor Wall Light, a durable and stylish choice for any outdoor space.
7. Nantucket Seedy Glass Pendant – American Style Outdoor Lighting
Introducing the Nantucket Pendant, a stunning lighting fixture perfect for any home. This pendant boasts dimensions of 18.5" in height, with an adjustable height of up to 92.75", and a width of 8.5". Its weight comes in at 9.92 lbs, making it a sturdy and durable piece.
The Nantucket Pendant features three 60 Watt E12 Candelabra Incandescent Bulbs, totaling 180 Watts of bright and dimmable lighting. Please note that bulbs are not included with purchase.
Installation of this pendant is made easy with the hardware included to mount the fixture to an existing junction box. Please note that the junction box itself is not included.
The Nantucket Pendant is UL approved for DAMP locations, making it suitable for use in areas with high moisture or humidity levels.
Constructed of steel with a Country Forge Finish, this pendant is both stylish and durable. The seedy glass shade adds a touch of elegance to its overall design.
8. Maxim Outdoor Led Sconce With Scroll Design.
Introducing the Scroll Outdoor Wall Light, a stylish and functional addition to your outdoor lighting setup. This fixture boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 21 inches high and 6 inches wide, with a total weight of 3.48 lbs. The backplate, which measures 4.75 inches in both width and height, ensures a secure and stable installation.
The Scroll Outdoor Wall Light is equipped with 2-11 Watt PCB Integrated LED Base bulbs, providing a total of 22 watts of illumination. These LED bulbs are included with the fixture and offer a warm 3000K color temperature, with a high 90CRI and 1540 lumens of brightness. Please note that this fixture is not dimmable.
Installation of the Scroll Outdoor Wall Light is a breeze thanks to the included hardware, which allows for easy mounting to an existing junction box (junction box not included). This fixture is also approved for use in wet locations, making it a versatile and durable option for any outdoor space.
Crafted from high-quality aluminum and finished in an elegant Architectural Bronze, the Scroll Outdoor Wall Light is sure to complement any outdoor aesthetic. Its sleek design and impressive specifications make it a standout choice for any homeowner looking to enhance their outdoor lighting setup.
9. Santa Barbara Seedy Glass Sconce: Brighten Outdoors
Introducing the Santa Barbara Outdoor Wall Light, a beautifully designed and well-crafted lighting fixture that adds a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. This wall light has dimensions of 16" High x 9" Wide x 11" Deep and weighs 7.48 lbs, making it a sturdy and durable choice for any home.
The Santa Barbara Outdoor Wall Light features a lighting capacity of 3-40 Watt E12 Candelabra Incandescent Bulbs, providing a total lighting output of 180 watts. Please note that bulbs are not included with the product.
The installation process for this outdoor wall light is straightforward and easy, with hardware included to mount the fixture to an existing junction box (junction box not included). This lighting fixture is UL approved for WET locations, ensuring that it can withstand the elements and provide reliable lighting for your outdoor space.
Constructed of cast aluminum with a beautiful Sienna finish and seedy glass shade, the Santa Barbara Outdoor Wall Light is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Its seedy glass shade adds a unique touch to the overall design, while the Sienna finish complements any outdoor decor.
10. Morrow Bay Vivex Heavy-Duty Outdoor Lantern
The MORROW BAY Pendant is a stunning piece of lighting fixture that is perfect for any space. With its dimensions of 26" High x 13.5" Wide and weighing 12.32 lbs, it is a substantial piece that will definitely catch the eye.
This pendant light requires 3-40 Watt E12 Candelabra Incandescent Bulbs, totaling up to 120 watts of lighting power. Please note that bulbs are not included in the package. It is also dimmable, providing you with the flexibility to adjust the lighting to your desired level of brightness.
Installation of the MORROW BAY Pendant is a breeze. The hardware to mount the fixture to an existing junction box is included in the package. However, the junction box itself is not included, so please make sure you have one before proceeding with installation.
The MORROW BAY Pendant is UL approved for DAMP locations, which means that it can be safely installed in areas with high humidity such as bathrooms or covered outdoor areas.
Constructed of cast aluminum with an earth tone finish, the MORROW BAY Pendant is both durable and stylish. The water glass shade adds a touch of elegance to the overall design, making it the perfect addition to any home.
Best Wattage For Outdoor Lights FAQs
Can using too high of a wattage for outdoor lights be harmful?
Yes, using too high of a wattage for outdoor lights can be harmful in many ways. One of the main concerns is the risk of fire. When you use a bulb with a wattage that is higher than what the fixture is rated for, it can cause the fixture to overheat and potentially start a fire. Additionally, using high-wattage bulbs can also increase your energy consumption and lead to higher electricity bills. It can also cause the bulb to burn out faster, which means you'll have to replace it more frequently. Furthermore, high-wattage bulbs can cause light pollution, which can be harmful to wildlife and disrupt the natural environment. Therefore, it's important to always follow the recommended wattage for your outdoor lights to ensure safety and efficiency. If you're unsure of what wattage to use, consult with a professional electrician.
Does the type of outdoor fixture affect the recommended wattage?
Yes, the type of outdoor fixture can affect the recommended wattage. Different outdoor fixtures have different wattage capacities and requirements. For example, a small porch light may only require a lower wattage bulb, whereas a floodlight intended for a larger area may require a higher wattage bulb. It is important to consult the manufacturer's instructions or a professional electrician to determine the appropriate wattage for your specific outdoor fixture. Using a bulb with a wattage that exceeds the recommended limit for your fixture can result in overheating, damage to the fixture, and even a fire hazard. Additionally, using a bulb with a wattage that is too low for your fixture may not provide sufficient lighting for your outdoor space. Therefore, it is important to consider both the type of outdoor fixture and the recommended wattage when selecting a bulb for outdoor lighting.
How do I balance energy efficiency and sufficient lighting when choosing the wattage for outdoor lights?
Choosing the wattage for outdoor lights can be a tricky task as you need to balance energy efficiency and sufficient lighting. The key to striking a balance is to choose the right wattage that provides adequate lighting without consuming excess energy.
To start, assess the area you want to illuminate and determine the level of brightness required. This will depend on the purpose of the lighting and the size of the area. If it's a small area like a porch, a lower wattage bulb may suffice, while a larger area like a driveway may require a higher wattage bulb.
Consider using LED bulbs as they are energy-efficient and long-lasting. They consume less energy compared to traditional bulbs and can still provide the same level of brightness. Additionally, LED bulbs are available in different color temperatures, so you can choose one that suits your lighting needs.
It's also essential to install outdoor lights with motion sensors or timers to avoid unnecessary energy consumption. Motion sensors will turn on the lights only when there is movement, and timers allow the lights to turn off automatically after a set period.
In summary, to balance energy efficiency and sufficient lighting when choosing the wattage for outdoor lights, assess the lighting needs of the area, consider using LED bulbs, and install motion sensors or timers.
How do I determine the appropriate wattage for my outdoor lights?
When trying to determine the appropriate wattage for your outdoor lights, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the purpose of the lights. Are they purely decorative, or do you need them for security and illumination? If you're looking for security and illumination, you'll want to choose a higher wattage to ensure visibility and safety.
Next, consider the size of the area you want to light up. The larger the space, the higher the wattage you'll need to ensure adequate coverage. Additionally, think about the type of bulbs you want to use. LED bulbs are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, meaning you can use a lower wattage to achieve the same level of brightness.
Finally, check the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific outdoor light fixture. They may have specific wattage guidelines that you should follow to ensure proper function and avoid damage to the fixture.
Overall, it's important to strike a balance between brightness, energy efficiency, and safety when choosing the appropriate wattage for your outdoor lights.
How does the placement of outdoor lights affect the recommended wattage?
The placement of outdoor lights can have a significant impact on the recommended wattage. If you are placing lights in areas where you need bright illumination, such as in the driveway or walkway, you may require higher wattage bulbs to ensure that the area is well-lit. However, if you are placing lights in areas where you want to create a subtle ambiance, such as around a patio or garden, you may require lower wattage bulbs.
It is essential to consider the purpose of the light when determining the appropriate wattage. Additionally, the size and height of the area being illuminated will also affect the recommended wattage. For example, a large backyard may require higher wattage bulbs than a small garden.
Another factor to consider is the type of bulb being used. LED bulbs typically require less wattage than incandescent bulbs to produce the same amount of light. Therefore, if you want to save energy and reduce your electricity bill, you may consider using LED bulbs with lower wattage.
In summary, the placement of outdoor lights and their intended purpose, as well as the size and height of the area being illuminated, should all be considered when determining the recommended wattage.
How does the size of my outdoor space affect the wattage of my lighting?
The size of your outdoor space can affect the wattage of your lighting in a number of ways. The larger the space, the more lighting you may need to adequately illuminate the area. However, the wattage of your lighting will also depend on other factors such as the height of the fixtures, the type of bulbs being used, and the desired level of brightness.
If you have a small outdoor space, such as a balcony or patio, you may be able to get away with using lower wattage bulbs or fewer fixtures. However, if you have a larger outdoor space, such as a backyard or garden, you may need to use higher wattage bulbs or more fixtures to ensure that the entire area is well-lit.
It's important to choose lighting that is appropriate for the size of your outdoor space, as well as your specific lighting needs. If you are uncertain about what type of lighting to use, consider consulting with a professional lighting designer or contractor who can help you choose the best options for your needs.
Is it better to use LED or incandescent bulbs for outdoor lighting in terms of wattage?
When it comes to outdoor lighting, LED bulbs are generally a better choice than incandescent bulbs in terms of wattage. This is because LED bulbs use significantly less energy than incandescent bulbs, while still producing a similar level of brightness. For example, a 60-watt incandescent bulb can be replaced by a 10-watt LED bulb, which not only saves energy but also reduces your electricity bills. Additionally, LED bulbs are more durable and long-lasting than incandescent bulbs, making them a better investment in the long run. They are also more resistant to extreme temperatures and weather conditions, making them ideal for outdoor lighting applications. Overall, LED bulbs are a more efficient and effective choice for outdoor lighting in terms of wattage.
What is the ideal wattage for outdoor lighting?
The ideal wattage for outdoor lighting depends on the specific lighting needs and the area to be illuminated. Generally, outdoor lighting should be bright enough to provide adequate visibility and safety, but not too bright to cause glare or light pollution. For residential areas, a range of 40-80 watts is usually sufficient for porch lights, while floodlights for larger outdoor areas may require 100-200 watts or more. However, with the increasing popularity of energy-efficient LED lighting, wattage is becoming less important than lumens, which measure the brightness of the light output. It's recommended to consult with a professional lighting designer or electrician to determine the most appropriate wattage or lumens for your specific outdoor lighting needs, taking into account factors such as the size of the area, fixture placement, and desired lighting effects.
What is the maximum wattage allowed for outdoor lighting in my area?
The maximum wattage allowed for outdoor lighting in your area may vary depending on the local regulations and codes. It is important to check with your city or county government to determine the specific requirements for your location. In general, many municipalities have established lighting ordinances that limit the amount of light emitted from outdoor fixtures to reduce light pollution and energy consumption. Some areas may also have restrictions on the type of lighting fixtures that can be used, such as prohibiting certain types of floodlights or requiring shielded fixtures to reduce glare. To ensure compliance with local regulations and codes, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed electrician or lighting professional who can provide guidance on the appropriate wattage and fixture types for your outdoor lighting needs.
What wattage is recommended for security lighting?
When it comes to security lighting, the recommended wattage depends on various factors such as the size of the area you want to illuminate, the purpose of the lighting, and the type of bulbs used. A good rule of thumb is to use fixtures with a total wattage between 40 and 80 watts for residential security lighting. However, you may need more powerful lighting for commercial or industrial properties.
Additionally, it is essential to consider the type of bulb you are using. LED bulbs are a popular choice for security lighting due to their energy efficiency and brightness. A 10-watt LED bulb can produce the same amount of light as a 60-watt incandescent bulb. Therefore, you can opt for lower wattage LED bulbs to save energy while still achieving the desired level of brightness and security.
Overall, it is recommended to consult with a professional electrician or lighting expert who can help you determine the best wattage for your specific security lighting needs.
