Replacing an exterior light means connecting a fixture to your home’s mains wiring, so in Western Australia it must be done by a licensed electrician. Swapping a globe in an existing fitting is fine to do yourself, but removing and wiring a new light is regulated electrical work. Here is what the job involves, how to choose the right outdoor light for a Golden Bay or Mandurah home, and when to call us.
Can you replace exterior lights yourself in WA?
Changing a globe is a simple household task, as long as the light is switched off and cool. Anything beyond that, such as removing the old fixture, disconnecting wires or fitting a new light, is licensed electrical work under Western Australian rules set by Building and Energy. Outdoor lighting adds extra risk because of rain, moisture and long cable runs. A wiring mistake can cause electric shock, a fire, or water getting into the fitting.
Many people also assume turning off the light switch is enough. It is not. A licensed electrician isolates the circuit at the switchboard and proves it is dead with a tester before touching a single wire.
How do you choose the right exterior light?
The right fitting depends on where it is going and what it needs to do. Keep these points in mind:
- Weather rating: check the IP rating. Lights that are exposed to rain need a higher rating than lights under a covered porch.
- Coastal conditions: salt air near Mandurah and the Peel coast corrodes cheap fittings quickly. Look for marine grade, powder coated or stainless steel finishes.
- Light source: LED fittings use far less power and last much longer, which means fewer trips up a ladder.
- Colour: warm white suits entries and patios, while cooler white is common for security and driveway lighting.
- Sensors: motion sensors save power and make any movement near your home easier to notice.
Our guide to choosing lighting for a house goes further on style and layout.
What does an electrician do when replacing an exterior light?
A proper exterior light replacement follows a safe, set order:
- Isolate and test. The circuit is switched off at the switchboard and tested to confirm it is dead.
- Remove the old fitting. The electrician checks the cable and junction box for moisture damage, corrosion or heat damage.
- Fit the new bracket. New fittings come with their own mounting hardware because screw sizes and hole spacing vary between models.
- Connect the wiring. Active, neutral and earth are connected to the correct terminals and secured.
- Seal it against the weather. The fitting is sealed to keep rain and insects out of the junction.
- Restore power and test. The light is tested, and the circuit’s safety switch is checked so it will trip if there is a fault.
When should you call an electrician straight away?
Do not leave an exterior light fault. Call an electrician if you notice water inside a fitting, a light that flickers or buzzes, scorch marks or a burning smell, a cracked housing with exposed wires, or a safety switch that trips when the light is on. If it looks dangerous, our 24 hour emergency electrical service can attend.
Why outdoor lighting is worth getting right
Your exterior lighting is the first thing visitors see at night. Well placed, reliable lights make your property safer to walk around, discourage opportunistic intruders and lift the look of the whole house. Our lighting and power team installs and replaces exterior lighting for homes and businesses across Golden Bay, Mandurah and Rockingham.
Need exterior lights replaced? Contact us or call Darren on (08) 6118 6148.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace an outdoor light myself in Western Australia?
You can change a globe yourself with the power off, but replacing the fitting itself means disconnecting and rewiring mains cabling. That is licensed electrical work in WA. Doing it yourself risks shock, fire and water damage, and it may void your home insurance.
How much does it cost to replace an exterior light?
The cost depends on the type of fitting, how many lights you are replacing and how easy the wiring is to reach. Energised Installs gives a clear quote before any work begins. Contact us with details of your lights for an accurate price.
How long does it take to replace an exterior light?
A single straightforward replacement is usually quick, often within an hour or two, but older wiring, hard to reach positions or several lights will take longer. Your electrician will confirm a realistic timeframe and explain each step after inspecting the job on site.
What IP rating do I need for outdoor lights?
The IP rating shows how well a fitting resists dust and water. A light fully exposed to rain needs a higher rating than one sitting under an eave or covered porch. Your electrician can recommend a rating for each position around your home.
Should I choose LED or sensor lights for my exterior?
LED lights are the best choice for most homes because they use less power and last far longer than older globes. Sensor lights are ideal for paths, driveways and rear yards. See our lighting and power service for installation options.
