How to Upgrade Pool Lights to LED

Patrick Wallain
Jun 13
12 min read

Updated: Jun 14

Switching to LED pool lights saves energy, reduces costs, and enhances safety. Here’s a quick overview of why you should upgrade and how to do it:

Why Choose LED Pool Lights?

Energy Savings: LEDs use 87% less energy than incandescent bulbs, costing about $17/year to operate.
Longer Lifespan: LEDs last 25,000–50,000 hours, compared to just 1,000 hours for incandescent bulbs.
Brighter Light: A 45W LED produces up to 5,400 lumens, far outshining a 300W incandescent bulb.
Safety: Low voltage and heat output make LEDs safer, especially in hot climates like Arizona.
Customizable Features: Enjoy programmable colors and brightness for a dynamic pool atmosphere.

How to Upgrade:

Turn Off Power: Always shut off the circuit breaker before working near water.
Gather Tools: You’ll need insulated gloves, waterproof connectors, and a voltage tester.
Remove Old Light: Unscrew and disconnect the old fixture, inspecting for damage or leaks.
Install New LED: Match voltage, secure connections, and ensure a watertight seal.
Test and Program: Power on, test brightness, and set up features like color transitions.

Costs and Savings

Light Type	Cost	Lifespan	Energy Use	Annual Cost
Incandescent	$450–$650	1,000 hours	300W	$131/year
LED	$700–$1,500	25,000–50,000 hours	40W	$17–$18/year

While LEDs have a higher upfront cost, they pay for themselves in 1.6 years through energy and maintenance savings.

Key Tip: Hire a Professional

For safety and compliance with electrical codes, consider hiring an expert. Professionals ensure proper installation, reducing risks and maximizing efficiency.

Ready to save money and transform your pool? Start your LED upgrade today!

How to: Upgrade Your Pool Light To an LED Color Changing Light

Safety Steps and Getting Ready

Before diving into the installation of your new LED pool lights, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Working with electricity near water requires extra care, and following the right precautions will help you avoid electrical hazards and ensure a smooth installation process.

Turn Off Power at the Circuit Breaker

The first and most important step: never work on pool lights with the power on. This simple rule is key to avoiding electric shock. Start by locating your electrical service panel - usually a large gray metal box found in areas like the garage, basement, utility room, or pantry. If you live in an older home, you might have a fuse box instead.

Make sure the area around the panel is dry. Once you’ve identified the pool light circuit breaker, turn it off and label it to prevent accidental reactivation. Wait a minute or two, then use a voltage tester to confirm the absence of current before proceeding.

Once the power is safely off, you can focus on equipping yourself with the right tools and gear.

Safety Gear You Need

Proper safety gear is non-negotiable. Wear insulated electrical gloves and non-slip, rubber-soled shoes to protect yourself. Before starting any work, use a voltage detector to double-check for live wires. Additionally, ensure you’re using insulated hand tools rated for up to 1,000 volts, and follow OSHA guidelines for glove ratings to ensure maximum safety.

If you’re unsure about any part of the process, it’s always better to consult a professional.

When to Hire a Professional

Some situations call for expert help. If you’re dealing with issues like faulty wiring, frequent breaker trips, or water leaks, it’s best to bring in a licensed electrician. Attempting to rewire electrical components on your own can void warranties and compromise safety. A professional will ensure proper sealing and leak prevention, giving you peace of mind and a lasting installation.

Tools and Materials You Need

Before diving into upgrading your LED pool lights, make sure you have the right tools and materials on hand. Whether you're swapping out a bulb or replacing the entire fixture, preparation is key to a smooth and efficient process.

Basic Tools

For any LED pool light upgrade, you'll need a few essential tools:

Phillips-head and flathead screwdrivers: These are must-haves for removing screws and accessing the light fixture.
Voltage tester: This is non-negotiable. Use it to confirm the power is off before starting and to check everything works properly once you're done.
Wire strippers and pliers: These will help you manage wiring connections.
Electrical tape: Use this to insulate connections, ensuring they're safe and water-resistant.
Waterproof wire connectors: These are crucial for protecting your electrical connections from moisture and pool chemicals.
Soft towels or cloths: Perfect for cleaning surfaces and handling components without causing scratches.
Safety glasses and insulated gloves: These provide essential protection when working with electrical components.

For more involved installations, like new wiring, you might also need electrical fish tape for pulling wires through conduit and PVC conduit to shield the wiring from damage and water exposure.

Once you've gathered your tools, it's time to focus on the materials you'll need based on the type of upgrade you're planning.

LED Upgrade Materials

The materials required will depend on whether you're doing a simple bulb replacement or a full fixture upgrade.

For a bulb replacement:
- A new LED pool light bulb that matches your fixture's voltage (12V to 12V or 120V to 120V). Double-check the voltage to avoid compatibility issues.
- A new pool lens gasket: Always replace the gasket when changing the bulb, even if it looks fine. This ensures a watertight seal and prevents water damage.
For a complete fixture replacement:
- A waterproof junction box if your current setup lacks one.
- Heat shrink tubing for added wire protection.
- Wiring connectors for secure electrical connections.
- A light fixture with a cord length long enough to reach the junction box, plus extra slack for future maintenance.
- A grounding terminal lug to securely connect the ground wire.
- Silicone lubricant to ease installation and improve seals.
- Waterproof sealant to ensure all connections and the fixture itself are properly sealed against leaks.

If you're replacing the entire fixture, assess your current setup first. Make sure to choose LED lights specifically designed for pool use - they're built to handle the unique challenges of a pool environment. If you have an automated pool controller, confirm that the light you select is compatible with your system.

Some LED lights come with universal brackets featuring multiple hole patterns, allowing them to fit existing mounting holes in your pool wall. This can save you from drilling new holes or making modifications.

You can find these tools and materials at hardware stores, pool supply shops, or online retailers. Having everything ready before you begin will help the installation go smoothly and keep surprises to a minimum.

How to Install LED Pool Lights

With your tools and materials ready, it’s time to get started. Installing LED pool lights requires attention to detail and safety precautions, but by following these steps, you’ll have a well-lit pool in no time.

Remove the Old Pool Light

First and foremost, turn off the circuit breaker controlling the pool light. Safety is critical here. As Ralph Tarulli, a Pools and Construction Expert, advises:

"It is imperative that, above all, the circuit breaker that controls the light is turned off so it is safe to work on. If you are unable to identify what breaker powers your light, call a professional - do not begin work on the light."

Once the power is off, locate the single screw or wedge securing the light housing. Carefully remove it, allowing the housing to float to the surface. If it doesn’t float, this may indicate water leakage, which could explain a failed bulb. In such cases, the housing might need replacement. Place the housing on a soft towel to avoid scratches. Next, disconnect the light fixture from its power source by gently separating the electrical connections.

Clean the Niche and Inspect Wiring

With the old light out of the way, clean the niche in the pool wall thoroughly. Remove any debris, algae, or corrosion to ensure a proper seal for the new light. Take a close look at the wiring for any signs of damage, like cracked insulation or corrosion. Also, check the conduit protecting the wiring. If you find any issues, address them before moving forward.

Install the New LED Light

Prepare the new LED light for installation. If you’re only replacing the bulb, double-check that its voltage matches your existing setup - most LED pool lights run on 12V. For a full fixture replacement, thread the new wiring through the conduit and secure the connections with waterproof wire connectors and sealant.

If your setup requires a transformer, ensure it’s installed near the pool equipment to reduce the voltage from 240V to 12V. When connecting wires, wrap them with electrical tape for extra security and apply waterproof sealant around the edges of the fixture if needed. Place the new LED light in the niche, ensuring it sits flush and secure. Fasten it with the mounting screw, but don’t overtighten to avoid damaging the fixture.

Test Your Work

Before finishing up, test the light to ensure everything is working properly. Turn the circuit breaker back on and check that the light operates without flickering or dimming. Confirm that it provides consistent brightness and the desired color temperature. If you notice any issues, turn off the power and inspect the connections again. Look for water leaks around the housing, as this could indicate a problem with the seal. Once you’re confident everything is functioning correctly, move on to configuring the LED features.

Set Up LED Features

Modern LED pool lights often come with advanced features like color-changing effects or remote control compatibility. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to program these features. If your light integrates with a pool automation system, pair it accordingly to control it remotely or set schedules. Test all modes, dimming options, and color transitions to ensure they work as intended. For future reference, document the wiring and setup details. With everything in place, your LED pool lights are ready to bring vibrant, efficient lighting to your pool for years to come.

Cost and Benefits of LED Pool Lights

When considering LED pool lights, it's essential to weigh the upfront cost against the long-term savings. While these lights come with a higher initial price tag, their durability and energy efficiency make them a wise choice over time.

Cost Comparison Chart

The upfront cost of pool lighting options can vary significantly. Here's a breakdown of the three main types:

Light Type	Initial Cost	Lifespan (Hours)	Energy Usage	Annual Operating Cost
Incandescent	$450–$650 per bulb	1,000 hours	300W	$131 per year
LED	$700–$1,500 per fixture	25,000–50,000 hours	40W	$17–$18 per year
Fiber Optic	$1,300–$1,700 per system	10,000+ hours	Variable	$50–$80 per year

LED pool lights typically cost 2–3 times more than incandescent options. Basic white LED lights range from $300–$600, while color-changing models are priced between $500–$1,000. Advanced systems can reach $1,000–$1,500, with installation adding $500–$1,500 to the total cost. These upfront expenses, however, are offset by significant energy and maintenance savings.

Long-Term Savings

LED pool lights are a game-changer when it comes to cutting costs over time. They use 87% less energy than incandescent lights. For instance, a 40W LED light costs around $17 annually to operate, compared to $131 for a 300W incandescent. This translates to a payback period of just 1.6 years, with total savings exceeding $1,100 per light over an 11-year span.

"LED pool lights generally last around 12 years (which is a lot longer than an incandescent light). LED pool lights are the preferred technology due to their durability, reliable performance & efficiency."
Cannonball Pool Service

Another major advantage is reduced maintenance. LED lights last 25–50 times longer than incandescent bulbs, which means you'll save on replacement and labor costs. Over the same period, one LED light can replace up to 50 incandescent bulbs.

"Because they last longer, LED swimming pool lights also require less maintenance. Say goodbye to replacing your lights every season or worrying about gasket maintenance; simply set them and forget them!"
Always Clear Pool Cleaning & Repair

For pool owners in areas like Arizona, where electricity rates are higher and pools are used year-round, the savings are even more compelling. Shine Pools can help you calculate your exact savings and provide professional installation to ensure you get the most out of your investment.

With 87% less energy usage, a lifespan of 12+ years, and minimal upkeep, LED pool lights offer one of the most cost-effective upgrades for your pool. Professional installation ensures you maximize both safety and efficiency, making the switch to LED a smart decision.

Why Hire Professionals for Pool Light Upgrades

Upgrading your pool lights to LED might seem like a straightforward DIY project, but it comes with serious risks - especially when dealing with electricity near water. While careful preparation is essential, professional installation ensures your LED pool lights are efficient, safe, and compliant with all necessary standards.

Licensed Experts Follow Safety Codes

Licensed electricians are trained to adhere to the National Electrical Code (NEC) for pools, guaranteeing that every connection meets local safety requirements.

"A code compliant electrical installation for a pool, completed by a licensed qualified electrician, is vital to the overall performance of the electrical system and the swimmer's ability to cool off safely." - Dean Austin, NFPA Senior Electrical Specialist

Professionals also address critical safety components that DIY projects often overlook. This includes installing and testing ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), ensuring waterproof connections, and verifying the equipotential bonding system. The bonding system is a safety measure that connects all metal components around your pool with a continuous loop of copper wire. This system equalizes electrical potential and prevents dangerous voltage differences.

Between 2003 and 2014, the Consumer Product Safety Commission recorded 14 deaths caused by electrocution in swimming pools. Licensed professionals understand the importance of using safer, low-voltage lighting systems - such as 12-volt options - to minimize these risks.

"Maintenance on pools, associated pool equipment, and the equipotential bonding system is no different than maintaining a car by getting the oil changed." - Dean Austin, NFPA Senior Electrical Specialist

By following these rigorous safety measures, professional installers provide a secure and code-compliant solution - exactly what you need for peace of mind.

Shine Pools' LED Upgrade Services

At Shine Pools, safety and expertise come first. Specializing in LED pool light upgrades across Arizona’s East Valley, including Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa, their team is well-versed in both the challenges posed by Arizona’s climate and the intricacies of local electrical codes. This ensures your installation is not only safe but also energy-efficient.

When you work with Shine Pools, you can trust that your LED upgrade will meet every safety standard while helping you save on energy costs. Their professionals also offer energy-efficient motor upgrades and other comprehensive pool solutions, all backed by warranty protection on equipment - giving you confidence in the durability of your investment.

With Shine Pools, you’re not just upgrading your pool lights - you’re investing in a safer, more efficient system designed to enhance your pool experience year-round in Arizona's sunny climate.

Conclusion

Switching to LED pool lights is a smart move for anyone looking to save money and improve performance. LED lights consume up to 87% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and have an impressive lifespan of 25,000 to 50,000 hours, compared to just about 1,000 hours for incandescent options. This energy efficiency doesn’t just help the environment - it also means noticeable savings on your monthly electricity bills.

But the benefits don’t stop there. LED pool lights bring a whole new level of style and convenience. With vibrant, customizable colors and remote control features, they let you create the perfect atmosphere for any occasion. Plus, their durability and weather resistance make them ideal for handling the East Valley’s challenging climate.

When dealing with electricity near water, safety is crucial. Proper installation must meet National Electrical Code standards and local safety regulations. This is why professional installation matters. Shine Pools offers the expertise you need to ensure your LED upgrade is not only energy-efficient but also safe and code-compliant. Their team knows the unique demands of the East Valley climate and local electrical codes, giving you peace of mind. With a one-year warranty on their work and reliable repair services, they make your LED upgrade a secure and worthwhile investment.

Make the switch today for a pool that’s brighter, safer, and more energy-efficient.

FAQs

What safety measures should I follow when upgrading my pool lights to LED?

Safety Tips for Upgrading Pool Lights to LED

When switching your pool lights to LED, prioritizing safety is non-negotiable. The first step is to cut off all power to the pool area at the circuit breaker. This precaution minimizes the risk of electrical shock during the upgrade process.

Make sure to select LED lights that are UL-certified and specifically designed for underwater use. This certification ensures the lights meet safety standards for wet environments. For added peace of mind, it's wise to hire a licensed electrician to handle the installation or at least inspect the setup. This ensures proper grounding and sealing, which are critical for safe operation.

Avoid tampering with existing wiring or components, as this can create dangerous electrical issues. Additionally, make it a habit to inspect your pool light fixtures regularly. Look for any signs of damage or wear that could lead to water seeping into the fixtures, which could compromise safety over time.

Are LED pool lights more cost-effective than traditional incandescent lights?

Yes, LED pool lights are a smarter choice when it comes to long-term savings compared to traditional incandescent lights. Although the initial price of LED lights might be higher, they use 75–87% less energy, which translates to noticeable reductions in your electricity bills. On top of that, their extended lifespan means you won’t have to replace them as often.

With their energy-saving benefits and durability, LED lights often end up paying for themselves over time. If you're thinking about upgrading, it's a great way to enjoy brighter, more efficient lighting while cutting down on long-term expenses. Plus, it's a step toward being more environmentally friendly.

What should I do if I run into issues like faulty wiring or water leaks while upgrading to LED pool lights?

If you run into issues like faulty wiring or water leaks while upgrading your LED pool lights, it's crucial to tackle them quickly to ensure safety and avoid further complications. For water leaks, start by inspecting the gasket around the light fixture - replacing it often solves the problem. You might also consider using a light cord stopper to seal any gaps. However, if water has already seeped into the fixture, you may need to replace the entire unit to prevent damage or potential breakage.

When it comes to damaged or faulty wiring, reaching out to a professional is your best bet. Electrical problems can lead to serious dangers, such as short circuits or even fires, so having an expert handle the repairs ensures everything is done safely and properly. If you're uncertain about any step of the process, hiring a licensed technician is the smartest way to safeguard both yourself and your pool equipment.