How often should I check landscape lighting?

You should inspect your landscape lighting monthly during the active season (April-October) and perform a thorough check twice yearly in spring and fall. Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and ensures your lighting system operates safely through New Brunswick's challenging weather conditions.

Monthly checks during the growing season should focus on basic functionality and cleanliness. Walk your property after dark to identify any burned-out bulbs, fixtures that have shifted due to frost heaving (common in NB's freeze-thaw cycles), or lenses that have become dirty or fogged. Clean debris from fixtures and trim back any vegetation that's grown to block the light output. Our Maritime humidity and frequent rain can cause mineral buildup on lenses, reducing light output by 30-40% if left unchecked.

Spring inspection (late April/early May) is critical after New Brunswick's harsh winter. Check all connections for moisture damage, as our deep frost penetration (1.2-1.5 meters) can shift underground wiring. Look for cracked fixtures from ice expansion, loose mounting hardware, and any signs of salt damage if you're in coastal areas like Saint John or Moncton. Test your transformer and timer settings, as power fluctuations during winter storms can reset programming. This is also the time to replace any bulbs that failed over winter and adjust fixture angles that may have shifted from frost heaving.

Fall preparation (September/October) involves weatherproofing for winter. Clean all fixtures thoroughly, check that gaskets and seals are intact, and ensure drainage holes aren't clogged. Trim vegetation that could fall on fixtures during ice storms, which are periodic concerns across New Brunswick. If you have above-ground wiring, secure it properly as heavy snow loads can cause damage. Consider applying dielectric grease to connections in coastal areas where salt air accelerates corrosion.

Professional maintenance should be scheduled annually, ideally in spring. A qualified electrician can test voltage levels, inspect underground connections with proper equipment, and identify potential issues before they become expensive problems. In New Brunswick's climate, professional maintenance is especially important because our extreme temperature swings (-30°C to +30°C) stress electrical components more than moderate climates.

Signs that require immediate attention include flickering lights (often indicates loose connections), fixtures that feel warm to the touch, any burning smells, or GFCI outlets that trip repeatedly. These can indicate serious electrical issues that pose safety risks.

Need help finding a qualified landscape lighting professional? New Brunswick Landscaping can match you with local contractors who understand our Maritime climate challenges and can keep your lighting system operating safely year-round.