Dock Lighting: How to Design and Plan Your Lighting Needs

Whether you are looking to install underwater dock lights or sustainable solutions with solar lights, this dock lighting guide is key.

There are currently over 985,000 registered boats in the United States. 

If you are lucky enough to own a boat, there's a good chance you own a dock, too. Does your dock have lighting? 

The last thing you want to do is navigate an unlit dock. A dock without lights is an accident waiting to happen. That's why it's essential to lessen your risk of a severe accident.

Installing dock lighting is the best safety precaution you can take. Learn everything there is to know about dock lighting here. 

Types of Dock Lights

It's essential to choose the perfect dock lighting for your situation. There are many types of dock lights available.

Here is a brief look at each to help you choose the right one. 

Underwater Dock Lights

Underwater dock lights can add a touch of luxury and aesthetic appeal to your dock. They're also one of the most versatile solutions due to their small size and ability to fit anywhere. Plus, they can outlast most other light sources by up to four times.

Solar Dock Lights

Solar dock lights are popular due to their efficiency and low installation costs. They cost nothing to run and are ideal for brightening up trouble spots. They are easy to install with no wires and can stand the test of time. 

Wharf Pole Nautical Lights

Wharf pole nautical lights offer functionality and a classic design. They provide ample light to the dock and surrounding paths, making it safe for everyone. These lights also come with a marine-grade finish, which can withstand inclement conditions.

Piling Lights

Piling lights mount on your dock pilings to illuminate the whole platform. They are an excellent investment as they are an attractive yet durable addition to your dock. Piling lights come available as wired or solar-powered, depending on your needs. 

Motion-Activated Dock Lighting

Motion-activated dock lighting provides light when you need it and saves you money when you don't. If you have neighbors, they may appreciate it too—the ideal option for those who don't use their dock often. 

Dock Lighting Ideas

Throwing a party in the dark isn't ideal, nor is it safe. Ensure you have sufficient lighting on your dock before you make any plans for the summer. 

Here are some dock lighting ideas to help you if you need inspiration. 

Set the Mood With Decorative Lights

There's no doubt about it; good lighting sets the mood. Colored LED lights change color and create a wonderful setting.

You can choose outdoor LED strip lights with waterproof protection to line your dock. Set the strips on a continuous color-changing loop. 

Illuminate the Dock With Pole Lights or Dock Lamps

Pole lights or dock lamps can fit on any solid surface. This includes pilings, handrails, tables, walls, and more. They can be seen from afar but are gentle on the eyes up close.

Most dock light fixtures are solar-powered. This means they won't affect your utility bill as long as you have them. 

Mark Your Dock Edge With Piling Lighting

Install piling lighting on the dock edges to maximize your safety and those around you. Lights along the edges of the dock prevent slippages by clearly marking where the dock ends, and the water starts. This is especially important if you're docking your boat at night. 

How to Choose the Best Dock Lights

With so many products on the market, choosing the best dock lighting is a difficult task. Consider these factors before making your decision: 

• Waterproofness
• Durability 
• Security 
• Cost 
• Battery 
• Brightness 
• Versatility 

Choosing the best dock lighting comes down to your taste and the purpose you need them for. 

Main Reasons to Upgrade Your Dock Lights

With summer around the corner, good dock lighting will not only improve your safety but also enhance the atmosphere. 

Here are some of the benefits of upgrading your dock lights: 

• Safety 
• Cost-effectiveness
• Security 
• Automatic lighting schedule
• Enhances atmosphere 
• Attracts fish 

If you're keen on fishing, underwater dock lights give you a better view of the fish. This will lead you to more success than fishing without lights. 

Should I Hire an Electrician? 

People often choose to do their electrical work or hire an unlicensed electrician because they think it will save them money.

Doing so is illegal, not to mention the risk of injury and death. While it might be tempting, the result can be disastrous. 

Even installing a simple dock light fixture can be done incorrectly when you don't know what you're doing. Electricity can flow through the water and across surfaces to cause severe injury or death. 

Any electrical handling near the water requires specialized services. Hiring a licensed marine electrician will not only save you money in the long run, but it will give you peace of mind too.

If you're not persuaded yet, here are a few more reasons: 

• Recieve service that's up to Code Standards
• Ensure use of high-quality material and tools 
• Avoid potential electrical accidents
• Have liability coverage 

There is no underestimating the importance of a licensed marine electrician. Don't risk your life trying to save a few bucks. It's not worth it. 

Ready to Install Your Dock Lighting?

If you're a boater, installing the proper dock lighting is key to your safety and security at night, not to mention how it can enhance the atmosphere, too. 

But don't try to install the lighting yourself. Hiring an electrician will not only save you time and money, but it's also the safest option. 

Buell Electric Inc. offers marine electronics and electronic control systems sales, installation, and service. We understand that safety is paramount. That's why we comply with the National Electrical Code Standards. 

Whether you're an avid night angler or enjoy taking the boat out to catch the sunset, dock lighting is something every dock owner should have. 

Contact us today, and let's help you light up your dock.