Outdoor post lighting tends to be a popular way to illuminate just about any area, from front yards to business parking lots. This lighting fixture is attached to a post and is usually connected to an electrical source underground, unless it is solar powered, in which case it would not need wiring. This kind of outdoor light may be a lantern-style lamp or a more modern rectangular tower of light. These posts provide light for driveways, walkways or decks and are often installed in a location where standard lighting would be impractical.
One of the fixtures often used for residential outdoor post lighting is a vintage lantern, featuring candelabra bulbs, with one or two lights per pole. Sometimes this kind of light is installed to soften outdoor lighting, and the pole itself may have extras, such as a hook to hang plants or chimes on. Outdoor post lighting may also be used to add extra light to a dimly lit front or backyard or in places where an outside light does not reach.
For a more contemporary, brighter light source, there are rectangular fixtures that combine stainless steel with sharp angles or cubed lights. This kind of light may appear almost futuristic, as if it came from some sort of spaceship. It may be quite effective at lighting up an entire deck or patio area, as it tends to give off a generous aamount of light.
Ecologically minded homeowners often choose to install post lighting that is solar powered in order to help the environment. These light sources may be placed just about anywhere, since they do not need wiring. Solar lights offer some unusual types of outdoor post lighting, including fixtures in the shape of a flower, such as a lily or daisy, in hues of red, green or yellow. There are also miniature solar lights for bush or garden areas.
When it comes to lighting a parking lot or a city park, post lighting is often chosen because it will usually illuminate a large area, keeping it safe and well lit. This kind of outdoor post lighting may be modern or antique style, featuring between one and eight globe style lights per pole. Very often a timer is used, so that the lights automatically turn on at dusk. Businesses may also attempt to conserve electric and cut costs by using a motion detector, which turns the light on when there is movement.