Outdoor gazebo lighting


10 ways to add sparkle and glow |

(Image credit: Tetra Images LLC/Alamy Stock Photo)

Gazebos make a great backyard retreat at any time of day but they really come into their own at night when dressed up with lights. Gazebo lighting ideas can create an evening space that's perfect for entertaining, a special dinner or simply a stunning way to show off the backyard at night.

Gazebos look especially welcoming when the lights are switched on at dusk and it's time for them to take center stage in the night-time garden. A well-lit gazebo works as an architectural focal point at night, too. The freestanding, open structure is ideal for outdoor lighting ideas, especially if it features a domed roof that’s supported by pillars or columns as this creates opportunities for a combination of gazebo lighting ideas.

There are also temporary pop-up fabric gazebo structures that provide a useful space for socializing at night, can be positioned wherever you want them and can also be beautifully decorated with lights.  

Gazebo lighting ideas

Which gazebo lighting style will you choose? From sparkling string lights and glowing festoons to vintage style chandeliers and modern built-in LED strip lights there's plenty of choice for your backyard lighting ideas.

1. Use pretty string lights for a magical vibe

(Image credit: Lights4Fun)

If you're hosting a garden party the best place to start with lights is up high. Span strings of sparkling outdoor string lighting ideas above your entertaining space for maximum impact. Choose string lights if you're covering bigger areas as they're lightweight, come in connectable designs and are easy to work with as well as being affordable.

'String lights are such a great way to light up your gazebo,' says Lights4Fun 's creative manager Lucy Kirk. 'To create the ultimate display, use multiple sets of warm white connectable fairy lights so you can swag the fairy lights back and forth underneath the roof of your gazebo for the perfect fairy light canopy. This will create a cozy ambience throughout your space.'

Faux candles in lanterns are directional and superb for creating ambience when dotted around or grouped together in a gazebo for maximum effect. 'By using various lighting options, you create a designer look with romantic overtones while avoiding harsh lighting,' says interior designer Sanel Konyar of Interior Collection .

2. Go Regency-style formal with a chandelier

(Image credit: Hilary Brodey/GettyImages)

Chandeliers aren’t just for the dining room. They can be hung in a variety of outdoor locations to add a touch of luxury when the sun goes down. Make a bold statement and hang a chandelier from the roof of your gazebo, choosing a style of light that best complements the space.

Whether electric or solar-lit, an elegant chandelier over the table is one of those gazebo lighting ideas that help switch up the space for an al fresco dinner. A vintage-style chandelier with teardrop crystals adds glimmer and shine for a more formal vibe that helps to create a sense of occasion.  

A vintage-style chandelier creates an air of elegance for your patio gazebo. If fitting the gazebo with dedicated electricity seems like too much hassle, remove all the wiring and sockets from an old chandelier and turn it into a battery-run chandelier by replacing the lights with faux tealights. Layer up the look with similar candles as part of the tablescaping.

3. Choose festoon lights for an old school feel

(Image credit: IKEA)

Festoon lights have a traditional feel with their big bulbs. The shapely glass globes come in warm whites or multi-colors. It's a look that's big right now, with festoon lights a firm favorite when it comes to garden parties. They are also one of the best gazebo lighting ideas, adding a subtle look that's not too harsh.

'Lights that are too bright for a gazebo can ruin the mood at night-time, which is where festoon lights come into play,' says Sam Richards of Gazeboshop . 'For pop-up gazebos, outdoor festoon lights can be attached along the frame and used to build a warm atmosphere, particularly when partnered with strip lights or lanterns. '

The latest styles of festoon lights combine energy efficient LEDs with more practical translucent plastic cases, designed to perfectly imitate the nostalgic look of the traditional version, while being virtually unbreakable.

4. Turn your gazebo into a backyard focal point

(Image credit: FOTOGRAFIA INC/Getty Images )

As well as lighting ideas for a gazebo within the space itself it's a great idea to light it up so it glows when seen from a distance too. Whether it's a hexagonal timber gazebo or a more stark modern style, it will look enchanting at night with the right lighting and become a real focal point in the backyard. This is a great example of using lighting to illuminate a specific feature.

Think about how best to light the gazebo with a wash of light picking out key elements around it, such as backlighting the planting and gently illuminating the steps. Use mirroring in the foreground to pick out these details then layer up the lighting effect in the gazebo. Letting your lights meet at a centered fixture will add pleasing symmetry to your space too.

(Image credit: SUNS)

Treat the outdoors like the indoors by using a combination of decorative lanterns and free-standing floor lamps to create a blended area that’s perfect for a relaxed atmosphere. Overhanging floor lamps add a real design element. Choose one that's height adjustable and preferably with dual effects so you can choose direct down-light or diffused up-light. 

'Whether you have a permanent or pop-up gazebo, lighting your garden structure will allow you to make the most of your outdoor space at night,' says Reilly Gray of SUNS Lifestyle . 'Just like in your interiors, you will want to create a layered lighting scheme in your outdoor structure as well. This will help create ambience while ensuring there's enough lighting for socializing or relaxing. Freestanding lamps and lanterns that are solar-powered and rechargeable are great as they can be moved around easily, offering a lot more flexibility and the option of directional lighting. '

Lighting styles like this are ideal for a luxe fixed gazebo style for your terrace. Choose a style with flexible shutters in the roof and side screens. That way you can use it year round at night to make the most of your gazebo.

6. Fix up a gazebo cottagecore style

(Image credit: Polly Wreford/Future)

If you love the idea of a nostalgic fairy tale gazebo with vintage style prints and lots of freshly picked flowers you'll be wanting lighting ideas for a gazebo that match this cottagecore aesthetic. Your go-to choice should be paper lanterns to get the look.

Dressing up your gazebo with pretty paper lanterns is one of the easiest ways to create an entertaining space for a summer garden party.

Made of thin paper covering a wire framework, paper lanterns come in a range of designs, colors and sizes. Illuminated from the inside, they provide a soft glow that adds to the magic. It's best to use LED lights or battery powered bulbs with paper lanterns, as they don’t give off heat in the same way that incandescent bulbs do.

7. Try a gazebo with integrated glow

(Image credit: Cuckooland)

If you're looking for a stylish freestanding gazebo for your backyard hosting choose one with remote-controlled LED mood lighting strips around the perimeter of the roof. It's an automatic, hassle-free option that adds instant glow. The LED strips come in multi-colored or white options, and are easily adjusted with a remote control. 

You can also set the lights to automatically change color periodically (great for parties!) or keep them one color. The lights are dimmable according to your desired brightness requirements and can be changed to set the mood for the occasion. Gazebo lighting like this requires an electricity socket for the lights to be activated. 

8. Illuminate a gazebo with hanging lights

(Image credit: Sparkle Lighting)

Outdoor hanging lights including garden lanterns and pendant lights come in a huge range of styles, finishes and colors so can be used in gazebos to create just about any vibe you like. They are great clustered together to form a statement look.

Some styles plug into an electricity supply, but if you’re unable to connect your outdoor lamps to a power source, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Instead, why not pick one of the many battery-powered pendant lamps? Another option is solar garden lighting ideas that automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn as no power source is required.

First and foremost, the gazebo structure you are suspending the lighting from needs to be able to take the weight of the light fitting itself, especially if you're planning a look like this one where you hang multiple lights together. Then all you need to do is determine the best design to accentuate your gazebo's charms.

9. Pick a subtle and sophisticated look

(Image credit: Johner Images/Alamy Stock Photo)

If you're looking to decorate your outdoor dining space for a special al fresco meal often a few strands of string lights is all that's needed to give things a lift. Perhaps a discreet touch of sparkle rather than full-on spotlights is more your thing anyway.

String lights are one of the best lighting ideas for a gazebo if you want to generate a romantic, ethereal atmosphere. These tiny LED lights are best added to the gazebo by wrapping them around the overhead beams. 

'Using string lights is one of the best ways to add a romantic and atmospheric feel to your night-time entertaining,' says interior designer Sanel Konyar. 'Choosing a solar light design makes them practical and economical, especially where electricity sources are limited.' 

(Image credit: Tetra Images LLC/Alamy Stock Photo)

If you really want to elevate your look above every other gazebo on the block make sure you choose lighting ideas that create a real sense of occasion. And if you're going to do it, do it well.

If you're planning to install a chandelier in your gazebo that's wired into an electrical supply make sure you buy one that is suitable. Choose a chandelier made of weather resistant material, and safety approved for outdoor use. 

Your outdoor chandelier should come with a sealed circuit to avoid moisture affecting the fittings. It should have a rubber coated switch and heavy duty cord. Once you've ticked off these you're ready to start hanging your chandelier.

Check the roof of your gazebo will carry the weight. Install a sturdy metal hook into the roof of your gazebo so the chandelier can be hung securely. Make sure each wire  is the same length so the chandelier hangs evenly. For chandeliers hung in the center of gazebos, the lowest point should be about seven feet from the ground to reduce the risk of taller guests bumping their heads!

How do you hang string lights on a gazebo?

'The most difficult part of hanging string lights is ensuring the wire is free of knots and that the lights are spaced evenly,' says Sam Richards of Gazeboshop. Here are his suggestions on the easiest way to hang a string of lights for successful gazebo lighting ideas:

  1. Measure the path the lights will follow along the structure of the gazebo and check you have enough.
  2. Choose a pattern that will mean your lights will be evenly spaced.
  3. Untangle your lights.
  4. Choose your hanging method of choice. You may use a staple gun to hang your lights, hooks or Blu-Tack. If you do choose to staple your lights, ensure the staple does not go through the wire!
  5. Start hanging from the furthest point and work your way in, this way you won't have spare lights left over at the end.
  6. Check your lights are secure and switch on!

How do you use lanterns to light a gazebo?

If you want to find out how to use lanterns to light a gazebo remember this simple fact: you can never have enough! Add them to your dining table, side tables and the floor to layer up a look and create a welcoming mood.

'Lanterns are a great addition to outdoor spaces and in particular for gazebos as they help to define the edges of the space, much as a wall light would do indoors,' says Juliette Thomas of Juliettes Interiors . 'Just because you’re not inside, it doesn’t mean you don’t need to accessorize your space. 

'Cozy it up with lots of lanterns and decorative pieces to create a zoned space that feels both intimate and welcoming. Scatter lanterns around to light up areas such as the entrance to the gazebo, which need to be seen, or group them together to create a focal point.'

Lifestyle journalist Sarah Wilson has been writing about gardens since 2015. She's written for Gardeningetc.com, Livingetc, Homes & Gardens, Easy Gardens and Modern Gardens magazines. Her first job on glossy magazines was at Elle, during which time a visit to the legendary La Colombe d'Or in St-Paul-de-Vence led to an interest in all things gardening. Later as lifestyle editor at Country Homes & Interiors magazine the real pull was the run of captivating country gardens that were featured. 

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photo ideas, lighting options, schemes

Pastime in the summer cottage is associated not only with work, but also with family vacations, when a friendly company gathers in the gazebo. Fresh air and the aroma of herbal tea can keep everyone up until dark, when twilight only makes them want to fall asleep.

That is why many owners of private plots are trying to organize lighting in the gazebo. Next, consider the most common options and relevant lighting devices for them. nine0003

Connection between the type of gazebo and lighting system

Depending on the design features of the gazebo, the environmental factors affecting the lighting system also differ significantly. These factors should be taken into account when organizing the system and choosing specific lighting fixtures.

Open

Open arbor

outdoors, so all devices according to the dust resistance class must be selected along with street lighting. Dust protection is indicated by the first digit after IP marking in the device passport, and the highest is 6.

Regarding the moisture protection category, the luminaires must be selected depending on their position in relation to the canopy and open space. For example, located in the center of the gazebo, it does not need to be protected from direct moisture, and outdoor lighting is selected with the maximum degree of protection. Moisture protection is indicated by the second digit after the IP marking and varies from 0 to 8.

Closed

Closed gazebo

Such a gazebo is practically no different from a residential or utility room. Therefore, lighting is organized according to the same principle - the type of lamp does not have to be closed. The level of protection against dust and moisture IP can correspond to a change house. But more stringent requirements should be imposed on the light source regarding work at low temperatures. nine0003

Outdoor

Outdoor gazebo

Designed to illuminate either the gazebo itself from the outside, or the surrounding space, garden paths, roofs, etc. In this case, both functional lighting can be implemented by installing lanterns to ensure sufficient visibility in the garden area, as well as decorative lighting to decorate a specific part or space.

Illumination options

Depending on the purpose, all lighting in the gazebo is conditionally divided into general, local and decorative. To select fixtures for each type, use the principles below. nine0003

General

General lighting designed to create a comfortable atmosphere in a certain area. In this case, this is the entire space inside the gazebo. The result should be a soft, diffused light that is pleasing to the eye, in which you can easily perform common activities. The flow should be neither strong nor too weak.

General lighting

Where appropriate, general lighting fixtures are installed directly on the ceiling above the area to be illuminated. If this is one lamp, it is installed in the center of the ceiling of a round gazebo at such a level that neither interior items nor visitors block the directional rays. nine0003

Local

In the gazebo, it is used to illuminate a certain area or place, designed to increase visibility in comparison with the flow given out by the general illumination. Particularly relevant in places where you read or cook, local lighting should also be installed by lovers of needlework and homemade crafts.

Local lighting

At the place of installation, such lighting devices in the gazebo should be located directly above the desired area - a table, chair, etc. For its implementation, both a portable floor lamp and stationary sconces, spotlights and other options can be used. nine0003

Decorative

Decorative lighting

This type of lighting, both in the gazebo itself and outside it, can solve several problems: decorative lighting of a certain area;

  • Highlight desired areas or zones;
  • Organize decoration or design of plots or the entire gazebo.
  • Such lighting does not carry a functional load, therefore, the appropriate power must be selected. LED point or strip models are quite popular for these purposes, they are quite economical, so a group of light bulbs or a whole garland of them does not consume much electricity. nine0003

    But, it should be noted that the decorative design, located within the free reach of a person, must be installed in compliance with safety measures that prevent electric shock.

    The choice of fixtures for the gazebo

    The next parameter that you should decide on is the type of lighting equipment. Depending on the design features of lighting devices, the light they give out, and the light transmission parameters, space coverage, etc. will differ. nine0003

    Suspended

    Suspended lamp

    Structurally, such a lighting device in the gazebo is represented by classic hanging chandeliers.

    The luminaire consists of a diffuser and a suspended structure, it is fixed to the ceiling on a rigid or flexible base:

    • cord;
    • chain;
    • tube
    • frame.

    May consist of one or more units, depending on the area gazebos and light output of each device. If pendant lights are used for general room lighting should give a scattered flow, here models with an opaque plafond or diffusing glass. For directional lighting in the gazebo devices with reflectors that enhance the flow are used. nine0003

    The height of the pendant lights will determine the area of ​​effective lighting, so it is chosen on the basis of practical considerations directly on site.

    LED bulbs

    LED bulb

    LED bulbs are the most efficient way to light garden gazebos today. They give out the most powerful luminous flux, compared to incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, and consume a minimum of electricity.

    Thanks to this, the heating from lighting devices is minimal, the lamp itself heats up to no more than 50ºС, therefore the dimensions of the device are minimal. The most common option is spotlights, although an LED light bulb can also be screwed into a classic chandelier. nine0003

    To install compact spotlights, holes are cut in any structural or decorative element, the main thing is that its strength is sufficient for such installation. In addition to lamps for lighting gazebos, LED strips are also used, but their task is to provide decorative lighting.

    Concealed lighting

    A feature of this type of lighting is the removal of the light source itself from the field of view. The result is an interesting effect for decor that highlights the illuminated surface. For the surrounding space of the gazebo or the territory of the suburban area, the light does not bring any benefit. Since hidden lighting is of auxiliary importance, low-power lamps and equipment are used for it. nine0003 Hidden lighting

    A striking example is the same ceiling lighting, which is installed behind a beam or a special cornice. They can be installed both along the perimeter of the ceiling, and in any other order.

    Wall sconces

    Lighting sconces

    Wall luminaires designed for vertical installation on a supporting structure. They can be used both for general lighting in the gazebo, and for local lighting.

    In large arbors for general lighting, wall sconces are installed on opposite walls to cover the entire space. The disadvantage of such lighting devices is the direction of lighting, since any objects or visitors can become an obstacle to light. nine0003

    Solar-powered lanterns

    Solar-powered lanterns

    Such devices are used as street lamps, since the accumulation of electrical energy comes from the sun and the galvanic cell must be located in open space.

    The scope of solar-powered street lamps is quite wide - they are used to illuminate the path, and to decorate the territory, and to illuminate the veranda. Their disadvantages include a low level of light output in cloudy weather. nine0003

    Examples of wiring diagrams

    According to the number of wires used, lighting circuits can be divided into two-wire and three-wire. The first option provides only neutral and phase wires, and the second one also has a protective ground. The three-wire system is the safest, as it removes the potential from grounded metal structures in case of insulation breakdown.

    In addition, the connection method differs in the presence or absence of protection for the lighting system. If the meter is equipped with a built-in machine, many users rely only on it and connect street chandeliers and other electrical equipment in the gazebo directly from the meter. nine0003 Two-wire lighting circuit

    The figure above shows the simplest option for organizing power supply to equipment in the gazebo - according to a two-wire circuit without protection devices. Many ordinary people use it because of the lack of a PE conductor in the supply network and the unwillingness to organize their own ground loop.

    It requires a minimum investment, but the level of security of this scheme leaves much to be desired. In the event of a breakdown on the body of an electric kettle or fireplace, nearby people may be exposed to dangerous potential. nine0003 Three-wire power supply with RCD

    This figure shows a three-wire power supply system for the gazebo. In both options, the principle of powering the lighting is considered together with the connection of sockets. This is the safest option when all consumers are separated from different machines, and an RCD is provided in the system to protect against leakage. Of course, you can upgrade this scheme - install one machine for the entire gazebo or combine lighting for one input.

    Another option to increase the safety of the lighting system is to turn on low-voltage spotlights. nine0003 Spotlight power circuit

    In this case, the LED sources are powered by a step-down transformer, which supplies them with 12V. And this level of voltage is absolutely safe for a person, even with a breakdown on the body.

    Useful tips

    When you have already decided on the necessary lighting fixtures in the gazebo, you can proceed directly to the installation work.

    Your case will have its own specifics, but we will give general tips to help you make the backlight better:

    • There is a high risk of fire in wooden gazebos, so the fixtures must be installed on a non-combustible base, and all wiring should be mounted in a metal corrugation or box.
    Lighting in a wooden gazebo

    The same concerns wooden structures or wooden chandeliers in gazebos from other materials.

    • For arbors made of concrete or metal, it is quite acceptable to lay the wiring in a plastic box or corrugation.
    • Switch for switching light bulbs is better to install at the entrance to the gazebo. Also pay attention to the partitioning of lighting devices by zones or types, for each of them it is advisable to install its own switch or one multi-key switch. nine0048
    • When installing lighting fixtures, check where the luminous flux is directed - it makes no sense to illuminate the outdoor space with a lamp above the table or by the fireplace.
    • The ceiling light can be made movable to adjust its height. So they can provide both general and local illumination.
    • For the production of multi-colored illumination, you can install an RGB diode strip.
    • Be sure to purchase original lamps, as cheap Chinese models often break down and cause a short circuit, followed by a fire. nine0048

    More photo ideas

    Here are the most interesting ideas for installing lighting equipment in the gazebo.

    • So in our article we will try to analyze each of the questions posed and offer you several options for solving it.

      Content

      • Types of lighting of arbors
        • Total lighting of arbors
        • Local lighting of arbors
        • Decorative lighting of arbors
      • Mount
        • Cleading. The selection of lighting in the lighting network in the conversation in the conversation in the conversation in the conversation to gazebo
        • Installation of wiring inside the gazebo
        • Conclusion

      Arbor lighting types

      First of all, you should decide on the type of lighting you need. It can be general, local and decorative.

      In principle, it is possible to combine all three types of lighting at once, but in this case you must be prepared for increased costs. Only the attractive appearance of the gazebo and the comfort of relaxing in it can justify them.

      General lighting for gazebos

      General gazebo lighting

      Let's start with the most common general gazebo lighting. Its purpose is to illuminate the space inside the gazebo. Moreover, ideally, the lighting should be uniform in all corners.

      So:

      • First of all, it should be remembered that the types of lighting largely depend on the shape of the gazebo and roof, its area, the presence of blank walls. And there is no perfect solution for any of these shapes.
      • Local lighting is usually implemented using a chandelier or a lamp in the central part of the gazebo. nine0044 But if for round arbors this is almost ideal, then for arbors in the form of a square or rectangle it is better to organize several lamps located in the middle between the corners and the center of the arbor.
      • If the area of ​​the gazebo is not large, then you can use wall lamp for lighting. Usually they are located on the supporting structures of the roof. At the same time, the power of the lamps should not be very large so as not to blind you when located opposite the wall lamp. But again, for square arbors, this option will not be very successful. nine0048
      • With a domed roof, the ceiling lighting looks very interesting, which gives a fairly uniform diffused light. But in this case, the ceiling of the gazebo itself must be made of appropriate materials, and the power of the lamps, depending on the area of ​​the gazebo, must be correctly selected.

      Local lighting of arbors

      Local lighting of arbors

      The function of local lighting is to ensure proper illumination of a certain area of ​​the arbor. It is used when it is necessary to perform some work in a certain area of ​​​​the gazebo, for example, above a table or in a favorite corner, with insufficiently bright general lighting, for example, from ceiling lighting, and in square and rectangular gazebos. nine0003

      So:

      • Usually local lighting for the gazebo is realized with the help of wall lamps. This is especially often done if there are blank walls in the gazebo.
      • Square arbors often use adjustable sconces. In this case, the luminaire in normal mode performs the function of general lighting, and, if necessary, the function of local lighting.
      • If you have a high ceiling height of the gazebo, then for local lighting you can use general lighting fixtures installed under the roof . To do this, choose chandeliers with the ability to adjust the height.
      • In some cases spotlights are used. But in this case, the roof structure must have a cavity necessary for their installation. And for arbors, these are not always done.

      Arbor decorative lighting

      Arbor decorative lighting

      Decorative lighting is the most diverse. Its main goal is to create an attractive image of the gazebo. Therefore, there is no limit to the imagination. nine0003

      But at the same time, it is highly desirable that this lighting be economical and at least partially perform the functions of lighting the space around the gazebo.

      • The most common decorative lighting option is the regular string. It is quite economical and gives a more attractive appearance.
      • If you want to create better decorative lighting with your own hands, then you can use LED strips. At the same time, they can decorate not only the gazebo itself, but also the adjacent territory. nine0048

      Please note! Since the installation is carried out outdoors, you need waterproof products. Usually it is advised to use tapes with IP45 and above. Sometimes they are also called hermetic.

      • In some cases, with appropriate forms of the gazebo, it is possible to use lighting of the facade of the gazebo. This is the most expensive type of lighting, but it is not suitable for all buildings.

      Mounting the lighting in the summer gazebo

      Having decided on the types of lighting you need, we can begin to implement. And at this stage, it is extremely important to choose the right equipment for installation, the lighting scheme for the gazebos and, of course, to mount it all correctly.

      Selection of electrical equipment for the lighting network in the gazebo

      First of all, you should choose the right fixtures and wiring equipment needed for installation. This includes sockets, switches and, if necessary, automation equipment, such as light sensors (see Choosing and installing light photo sensors), movements or timers. nine0003

      All electrical equipment for the gazebo must be waterproof

      So:

      • The main thing you should pay attention to is the level of dust and moisture protection. It is denoted by the symbols IP. The first digit after this abbreviation indicates the level of protection against dust, and the second against moisture. We need a level of at least 45 and above.
      • It shouldn't surprise you that all the possible variants of electric plugging devices are designed for open wiring. After all, hidden wiring for outdoor installation is prohibited. nine0048
      • As for lamps, our instruction advises to use lamp protection for them. It can be glass or any other ceiling, but it must be. Indeed, otherwise, if moisture gets on the lamp during its operation, it may explode.

      Please note! Discharge, diode and some other types of lamps do not have such disadvantages when moisture gets in, but a protective cover is your safety. Therefore, we do not recommend ignoring it. nine0003

      • If you plan to install timers, transformers for LED strips and other equipment, then it is better to provide a waterproof cabinet for them. In which their connections will be concentrated and the electrical equipment itself is located.

      Lighting scheme and wiring to the gazebo

      Choosing the right scheme and quality installation is the key to the safety and uninterrupted operation of lighting. Therefore, the installation should be approached thoroughly. Moreover, most of the wiring will run under the influence of an aggressive environment. nine0003

      • We will power the lighting on the gazebo from a separate group. The group machine will be placed in our switchboard. PUE recommends separating loads in residential and utility premises. Therefore, if you have a separate switchboard in the garage or shed, then we power the gazebo lighting group from it. If there is none, then we power it from the lighting panel at home.
      • A circuit breaker of 16A or even less will be enough to power the lighting. In general, it is better to make a calculation and choose the right cross-section of the wire and the introductory machine. We have already considered this issue in one of the previous articles, so now we will not focus on it. nine0048
      • Since our lighting network is located outdoors, there is a high probability of damage to it. Therefore, in order to protect yourself, it is better to install an RCD machine immediately after the group machine. It will protect you and your children from accidental electric shock.
      • At the next stage of installation, we should lay the wiring from our group machine to the junction box in the gazebo. This can be done in two ways - underground or overhead.

      Wired with steel cable

      • If the installation is to be carried out underground, then a cable of the required section must be used for this. Moreover, to protect it from mechanical damage, plastic corrugation or pipes should be used.
      • But the air laying method is used much more often. In this case, a steel cable should be used to support the wire, and the wire itself should be protected from mechanical damage using a metal (see How to choose a metal corrugation for wiring) or plastic corrugation. Or you can use SIP wire. nine0048

      Please note! According to paragraph 2.1.78 of the PUE, in all cases of using a metal corrugation outdoors, it must have a seal. In addition, it must be mounted in such a way as to prevent the ingress and accumulation of moisture, even condensation.

      • When laying a wire or cable from a group machine to an overhead line, the question of laying it along the wall of a house or barn will inevitably arise. If the room is made of wood, then in this case we use a metal corrugation to protect the wire from mechanical damage. If this is a brick building, then a plastic corrugation will be enough. nine0048
      • At the same time, regardless of the material from which the structure is made, it is imperative to comply with the distances given in clause 2.1.75 of the PUE.

      The photo shows the minimum allowable wiring distances to the elements of the house. If you have one light bulb hanging there, then everything is simple. But if the main, local and decorative lighting is planned, then everything is a little more complicated here. nine0003

      That is why we will consider this particular option:

      • So, we brought the power cable into the gazebo. Now we need to mount the junction box. If the gazebo is wooden, then the box itself or its base must be steel. Often they take an ordinary plastic box between it and a wooden base put a sheet of tin. So that it protrudes from all sides by at least 1 cm. And then a plastic junction box is attached to this sheet.

      Metal junction box