Outdoor Lighting · Automation

Outdoor lighting automation for Houston patios and pools.

2026-09-26 · Obsidian Audio Video · Houston

Houston's outdoor living spaces are used year-round — patios, pools, outdoor kitchens, and lanais are extensions of the home. But most outdoor lighting is still controlled by a single switch inside the house. Outdoor lighting automation fixes this — and in Houston's climate, it needs to be done right.

What to automate outdoors

• Landscape lighting: Path lights, uplighting on trees, architectural wall washing. Set on an astronomic timeclock.
• Patio and pergola lighting: Recessed ceiling lights, string lights, ceiling fans with light kits.
• Pool and spa lighting: Underwater pool lights, spa lights, deck lighting.
• Security lighting: Floodlights on motion sensors or triggered by doorbell cameras.
• Outdoor kitchen: Task lighting over the grill, under-cabinet lighting, ambient lighting.

Houston-specific considerations

• Weatherproof fixtures: Houston's humidity, heat, and rain require fixtures rated for wet locations (IP65+).
• UV degradation: Houston's sun degrades plastic lenses and gaskets. Use brass, copper, or marine-grade stainless steel.
• Flooding: Low-voltage landscape lighting should be rated for occasional submersion.

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