Fiber optic lights are commonly used for Dallas outdoor lighting such as fountains, pools, ponds, spas, and waterfalls. That’s because you don’t have to bring electricity anywhere near the water for successful installation. Instead, the actual bulb that is the source of the light can be located far away from the end output. This light source may be a low wattage tungsten-halogen or higher wattage metal-halide lamp.
Components of a Fiber Optic Lighting System
The light source, reflector, and focusing lens are contained in a box. A bundle of fiber optic cables is connected to this source and branches out into separate strands. Some manufacturers offer light boxes that can handle as many as 16 strands lit by a single bulb. The end of each strand is fitted with a fixture to hold it in the desired location below the water’s surface. Light is internally reflected down the length of the clad fiber and shines out at the very tip.
A color filter may be installed in the illumination box between the focusing lens and the fibers to create any desired hue. For example, a fish pond might be lit with a cool blue glow. Or, a green light could shine up through a pond of lily pads. Alternately, a rotating filter can be used to provide the continuously changing spectrum of color that most people associate with fiber optic lighting. This is a stunning effect for a
swimming pool and can also add interest to waterfalls and fountains.
The terminal end of the fiber doesn’t get hot to the touch. This means it is safe for swimmers to accidentally come into contact with the wall fittings underwater. Because the lens fixtures are often 2” or smaller in diameter, they can be installed in spaces of any size. Small diameter cables with polymer (rather than glass) fiber strands are quite flexible. They can be run into difficult to reach places in even the most ornate water feature. Depending on the specific materials used in the cable, the illumination may glow, sparkle, or shine.
Out of the Water and Into Your Yard
Fiber optic lighting has now been developed for use in
dry environments as well. The same qualities that make it great for underwater use offer benefits for above ground applications. Fiber optic lights make a great border for paths or to highlight steps, guardrails and decks for easier visibility at night.
Rope lights are available in fiber optic varieties for continuous borders or cove lighting.
Potential Drawbacks of Fiber Optics
Because these lights are often small, you may need more fixtures for adequate illumination of a given area. This makes them unsuitable for use as security lamps. They may also be inappropriate for task lighting where you need to be able to see clearly (such as in an outdoor kitchen).
Bear in mind that these are specialty lighting fixtures. Components and replacement parts are generally not compatible from one manufacturer to the next. It’s a good idea to buy the complete setup from a single supplier to ensure that everything works as intended. For advice on the best lighting for your water features, contact us for a free
consultation.