Electrical Garden Lights

As the weather warms up people will be spending more and more time in their gardens.  Now the garden centres will be in overdrive

working hard to sell the latest garden must haves.

Gardens have a few worrying points to them that most people wouldn’t spare a thought for until it is too late.  For us garden electricity is about garden safety and some questions to consider when putting electrical appliances in are:

Are there rules for carrying out electrical work in the garden?

The rules were adjusted making them tighter in 2005 to prevent a growing number of accidents caused by faulty electrical work.  All electrical work (yes we mean all) in the garden must be carried out in accordance with the national safety standard.  This must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations.  If you need help with an electrical inspection on old items or something new installed please contact us.

So, can I do the work myself if I am good with electricity?

The work needs to be carried out in accordance with the wiring regulations BS7671, whilst this may seem onerous for your own garden, this saves lives.  Keep in mind you may know a wire isn’t in the best condition but your children, grandchildren, neighbour’s cat and guests won’t.  To comply with the law you have to notify your local building control office before starting any work and then pay to have it fully inspected.  Or you can call us as we comply with the regulations and can carry out the work on your behalf.  Garden electricity can be safe and with us it is.

How do I get the best from my garden lighting?

Planning goes a long way here, we can work with you to suggest the best lighting, illuminating your garden’s most prominent features.  This can be plant life, water features or just eating and sitting areas.

Think Practical, lighting up steps and paths for safe access along with security lights around entrances is a simple yet obvious step.

Controls, how are you going to control the electrics you have had installed.  The simpler the better but also consider the access you have to these controls.

Consideration, have a thought for your neighbour, we can help you light up your late night patio area without shining lights into your neighbour’s dining room.

Heat, lights get hot, most do but with our advice we can set up lights that will be well out of the reach of children and as safe as possible.

Safety, you seldom get second chances with electricity.  Speak to Barton Electrical as we are the local experts in Ipswich and Suffolk garden electrics.  As we are qualified we can assist you safely and ensure you, your family, guests and pets enjoy the safest and best lit garden possible this summer.  When buying equipment always look for the BEAB approved mark or the European Community (CE) safety symbol.

For more information on Garden electricity and its safety contact us by clicking here.