LED Lighting Expert Written by Andrea Teele | LED Lighting Expert | Customer Success

aspectLED’s In-ground and Well lights are high-power LEDs that can be mounted in the ground or in the wall. These lights are available in multiple sizes and light output levels, providing options for virtually any application. Available in single color and color changing options, our In-Ground lights are perfect for a variety of applications, including but not limited to patios, garden walls, decks, pillar/column lighting, and pathways. Our In-ground and Well Lights are waterproof (with an IP67 rating) and feature a 304 stainless steel trim and aluminum body. They are also available for special order in a 316 Stainless Steel for salt-water environments (please contact our representatives for 316 stainless steel pricing).


Planning your Layout

It's important to keep in mind that our line voltage (120VAC) In-Ground fixtures are available in single color only and are non-dimmable. These fixtures will only work with a simple on/off switch. Important factors to consider when planning to install In-Ground lights are the preferred voltage, desired control method, LED light color preference, and the overall size and layout of the space. These considerations will impact design and purchase decisions, and ultimately the installation. If you're unsure about placement or brightness, we recommend purchasing one light to set up a mock installation to get a better idea of the final look.


Choosing Controls and Power Supplies

Once you've decided on the number of lights, you'll need to choose the appropriate controls (such as RGBW controls for your color changing fixture) and calculate the power supplies required. We recommend not loading our power supplies to more than 80% of their capacity for best performance and longevity. You can calculate the correct power supply size by multiplying the watts per fixture by the number fixtures you need to power. This will give you the actual power consumption. Then, multiply this number by 1.25 to determine the minimum size power supply required.


For example, if you install eight pathway lights, and each fixture consumes 3 watts, the total wattage would be 24 watts. To avoid overloading the power supply, multiply this total by 1.25, which in this example, equals 30. So, to power 8 pathway lights, you would need at least a 30-watt power supply.


Additionally, ensure the power supply voltage matches the fixture. If you're using a 12VDC fixture, you need a 12VDC power supply, while 24VDC fixtures require a 24VDC power supply. If you’re using the low voltage 12VAC version, it needs to be connected to a compatible AC power supply, such as our 12VAC Landscape Transformer.


Understanding Controls and Dimming Limitations

Most of our In-Ground lights are not dimmable and offer only on/off functionality in the single-color options. If you're using the RGB or RGBW version of these smaller fixtures, a low-voltage PWM controller, like our Wireless RGBW 4 Channel LED Controller with Channel Pairing with the LED Handheld Remote will be needed to control the colors, however dimming is not an option.


Wiring Considerations and Moisture Protection

During installation, all wire connections must be protected from moisture, as temperature fluctuations can draw moisture into the fixture. To prevent moisture infiltration, all connections that are below ground must be sealed with potting compound. There are two primary wiring methods to choose from: the star method and the daisy chain method.

The Star Wiring Method

The star method is preferred because it simplifies troubleshooting and eliminates the need for below-ground connections, reducing the need for potting. Each light runs its own wire back to the power supply, making it easy to isolate and fix potential issues. This method requires longer lead wires, which may increase upfront costs, but is less labor-intensive and eliminates voltage drop concerns.

Star Layout WIring Method

The Daisy Chain Wiring Method

The daisy chain method on the other hand, is more traditional but less efficient. In this method, lights are linked together, forming a chain. While this may seem like a straightforward approach, it introduces several disadvantages. Troubleshooting becomes more complicated because each light depends on the others, and if one fails, it can affect the entire system. Additionally, you’ll need to consider voltage drop and use larger wires to accommodate the load. All connections below ground must be sealed with potting compound, also adding to the labor and cost.

Daisy Chain Layout Wiring Method

Although the daisy chain method may initially seem like a simpler solution, the star method is ultimately more reliable and requires less effort in the long run.


Final Thoughts

In-Ground and Well lights offer versatile, durable, and stylish lighting solutions for a variety of outdoor spaces. With options in color, size, and waterproof ratings, these lights can suit almost any design preference and withstand demanding environments. Thoughtful planning—considering voltage, controls, wiring methods, and moisture protection—will help ensure optimal performance and longevity for your pathway lights. Choosing the star wiring method simplifies future maintenance and reduces common issues, while understanding power and control needs guarantees you have the right setup for your desired ambiance. By following these guidelines, you can create a beautifully lit space that’s both functional and durable.