Landscape Lighting in El Mirage, AZ

August 17, 2025
Posted by: Justin Pauling
Category: Uncategorized

Arizona is a place where sunny skies meet beautiful desert landscapes. That’s why having the right landscape lighting can totally change the look and feel of your outdoor space—especially at night! But when it comes to choosing between solar or wired lighting systems, many homeowners in the Phoenix Valley are left wondering: Which one is better for Arizona landscapes?

Let’s break it down in simple terms, so you can make the best decision for your home.

Why Landscape Lighting Matters in Arizona

Before we jump into the types of lights, let’s talk about why landscape lighting in Arizona is such a big deal.

Safety: It helps you see clearly at night and keeps walkways safe.
Security: A well-lit yard can scare off intruders.
Style: It shows off your plants, yard design, and outdoor features like pools and patios.
Function: You can enjoy your yard even after the sun goes down!

If you want to make your yard the perfect place for nighttime fun, check out our tips on how to transform your yard into the perfect gathering spot.

Solar Landscape Lighting: Powered by the Arizona Sun

Arizona gets lots of sunshine, so solar lights may seem like a perfect match. Here’s what you need to know:

Pros of Solar Landscape Lighting

Easy to install: No wires, no digging—just stick them in the ground!
No energy bill: The sun charges the light during the day, and it turns on at night.
Good for the planet: Solar lights don’t use electricity from the grid.
Flexible: Place them almost anywhere—even far from your home!

Cons of Solar Lighting

Needs sunlight to work: If your yard has lots of shade or it’s cloudy, they might not charge well.
Not as bright: Solar lights usually aren’t as strong as wired ones.
Battery replacement: Most solar lights need new batteries every 2-5 years.
Can break down easily: Some cheaper models don’t handle the Arizona heat well.
Limited settings: You can’t adjust brightness or control them like wired lights.

Solar lighting works great for accent lighting, such as lighting up pathways, garden edges, or small features. Want more low-maintenance ideas for your desert yard? Check out our blog on low-maintenance landscape design ideas.

Why Wired Landscape Lighting Is a Durable Choice for Arizona Homes

Wired lighting systems are strong, bright, and dependable. Let’s look at why many homeowners go with wired lights:

Pros of Wired Landscape Lighting

Consistent brightness: These lights stay bright, no matter the weather.
More control: You can use dimmers, timers, and even smart controls.
Long-lasting: These systems are built to survive Arizona’s hot summers and monsoon storms.
Better for security: Brighter lights make it easier to see your yard at night.

Cons of Wired Lighting

Higher cost up front: You’ll pay more for installation and materials.
Needs a pro: You may need to dig and lay wires, which usually requires expert help.
Electric bill: These lights use electricity, although LED bulbs help keep the cost low.
Less flexible: You can’t just move them around like solar lights.

Wired systems are great if you’re also adding other features like a built-in fire pit or outdoor kitchen. With the right setup, your yard can become an oasis for family and friends!

How Arizona’s Climate Affects Your Home Lighting

Here’s the deal: Arizona’s sun is both a blessing and a challenge.

Solar lights love the sunshine but hate the heat. High temperatures can wear out the batteries and cause cheap fixtures to break. Wired lights don’t rely on the sun, so they work great even in shaded areas or on cloudy days. They also hold up better over time.

So what’s the best choice?

Solar vs. Wired Landscape Lighting: Quick Comparison Overview

When it comes to choosing between solar and wired landscape lighting in Arizona, consider these key factors:

Solar lights are generally cheaper and easier to install, making them ideal for DIYers and smaller projects. They don’t add to your energy bill and are environmentally friendly, but they require good sunlight and often provide less brightness. Their lifespan is shorter, usually needing battery replacement every few years, and they may not hold up well in extreme Arizona heat.

Wired lighting systems, on the other hand, are more expensive upfront and require professional installation. However, they offer consistent brightness, advanced control features, longer durability, and better performance in shaded or high-traffic areas. They are perfect for homeowners who want a reliable, long-lasting lighting system that can be customized for aesthetics and safety.

Our Recommendation for Arizona Homes

Here’s what we suggest for Phoenix Valley homeowners: Based on years of experience working with homes across Mesa, Scottsdale, and the greater Phoenix area, we’ve developed practical, climate-conscious solutions tailored to Arizona’s unique desert environment. Whether you’re dealing with extreme heat, low humidity, or seasonal dust, our team has tested and refined these recommendations to deliver lasting results.

Go Solar If You:

Want something simple and affordable
Don’t mind dimmer light for walkways or gardens
Prefer a DIY approach
Need lighting in remote or faraway spots in your yard

Go Wired If You:

Want strong, bright, and long-lasting lights
Value customization and control
Need dependable lighting year-round
Are upgrading other features like landscape lighting, patios, or outdoor kitchens

Still not sure which one fits your space? Think about how you use your yard. Do you host parties, grill in the evenings, or relax under the stars? Then you may want wired lighting for a better atmosphere and safety.

Also, don’t forget to think long-term. A wired system may cost more now but can save you from replacing solar lights every few years.

Combine Both for the Best of Both Worlds

You don’t always have to choose just one! Many homeowners mix solar and wired lighting:

Solar lights for garden paths and corners
Wired lights for patios, seating areas, and entrances

This mix gives you both convenience and control while helping you save money and energy.

Pair your lighting with other design features like patio covers or 3D landscape designs to really bring your vision to life.

Brighten Your Yard with the Right Outdoor Lighting Solution

Choosing between solar and wired landscape lighting in Arizona doesn’t have to be hard. Just think about what matters most to you—cost, brightness, durability, and ease of use. The right lighting can boost your home’s beauty, improve safety, and help you enjoy more outdoor time all year long.

If you’re ready to light up your yard or still need help deciding, the experts at Kevens Landscape are here to help. We specialize in creating beautiful and functional landscape lighting designs tailored to Arizona’s unique climate.

Landscape Lighting: Solar vs. Wired Systems – Which Is Better?