Choosing the Best LED Pool Lights for Night Swimming

If you’ve ever gone for a night swim and felt like you were floating in the dark, you already know why good pool lighting matters. It’s not just about making the pool look great—it’s about safety, visibility, and setting the right mood. So, if you’re thinking of upgrading to LED pool lights, here’s what you need to know.

Why Go for LED Pool Lights?

Let’s cut to the chase—LED lights are the best option for your pool. Here’s why:

• Energy Efficiency – LED lights use way less power than older halogen bulbs. That means lower power bills without sacrificing brightness.
• Longer Lifespan – A good LED pool light can last tens of thousands of hours. That’s years of night swimming without worrying about frequent replacements.
• Better Colours & Brightness – Whether you want a classic white glow or multi-coloured lights to set the mood, LEDs can do it.
• Safer & Cooler Operation – Unlike halogen bulbs that get hot, LEDs stay cool, reducing the risk of overheating or damage.

What to Consider When Choosing LED Pool Lights

Now that you’re convinced LEDs are the way to go, here’s what you should look for:

1. Brightness & Coverage

Not all LED lights are the same. Some are bright enough to light up an entire pool, while others work better as accent lighting. Look at the wattage and lumens—higher lumens mean brighter light. If you’ve got a bigger pool, you’ll likely need multiple lights or higher-powered options.

2. Colour Options

You’ve got two main choices: white LED lights for a clean, bright look or RGB lights that let you switch between colours. Some models even have remote controls or smartphone apps so you can change colours and effects easily.

3. Installation Method

There are surface-mounted and flush-mounted LED lights.

• Surface-mounted: Easier to install, ideal for upgrading existing pools without major work.
• Flush-mounted: Sleek and modern, but usually require more involved installation.

4. Waterproof Rating

Look for IP68-rated lights—this means they’re fully waterproof and made to handle constant water exposure. Anything less, and you might run into issues.

5. Power Source

• 12V or 24V systems are the safest, but they need a transformer.
• Battery-powered LED lights can work for temporary solutions but aren’t as reliable for long-term use.

6. Smart Features

Some LED pool lights now come with WiFi or Bluetooth control, meaning you can adjust brightness, colours, and effects right from your phone. Handy if you like to switch things up often!

Where to Buy LED Pool Lights in New Zealand

You don’t need to look far to find good options. Here are some local retailers and suppliers that stock quality LED pool lights:

• Bunnings NZ (www.bunnings.co.nz) – They have a selection of LED pool lights, mainly for retrofit solutions.
• Waterco NZ (www.waterco.co.nz) – Specialises in high-quality pool equipment, including professional-grade lighting.
• NZ Pool Products (www.poolproducts.co.nz) – Good selection of underwater LED lights, including smart RGB options.
• Trade Tested (www.tradetested.co.nz) – Sometimes stocks pool lights, particularly for DIY installations.

If you prefer to see options in person, check with local pool supply stores or talk to a professional pool installer for recommendations.

Installation: DIY or Professional?

Here’s the deal—if you’re replacing an existing light with the same size and voltage, you can probably handle it yourself. Just make sure the power is off before you start, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly.

But if you’re installing new lights from scratch, especially if they require running new power lines or transformers, it’s best to get a licensed electrician or pool technician to do it. You don’t want to mess with electricity and water unless you really know what you’re doing.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading to LED pool lights can completely change how you experience your pool at night—better visibility, better aesthetics, and lower energy costs. Just make sure to pick lights that suit your pool size, power setup, and the mood you want to create.

If you’re unsure about installation or which product to buy, check with a local supplier or pool specialist. The right lights can turn your backyard into an amazing night-time oasis.

Happy swimming!