Lighting Options For Your Inground Pool
Pool lighting isn’t just about functionality — it’s about creating mood, extending your swimming hours, and adding a serious wow factor to your backyard. Whether you’re planning a new pool or upgrading an existing one, the right lighting can transform your pool from a daytime retreat into a nighttime showpiece.
From simple white lights to multicolor LED systems and floating lanterns, here’s a breakdown of the most popular lighting options for inground pools, plus tips to help you choose what works best for your space and style.
Types of Pool Lighting
1. LED Pool Lights
LED lights are by far the most popular option today. They’re energy-efficient, long-lasting, and available in a range of colors and modes (including programmable light shows).
- Pros: Low energy use, cool to the touch, color-changing options
- Cons: Slightly higher upfront cost than halogen, but pays off over time
2. Halogen Pool Lights
Before LEDs took over, halogen was the go-to. These lights produce bright, warm illumination and are typically less expensive upfront.
- Pros: Bright and effective, lower initial cost
- Cons: Higher energy consumption, shorter lifespan, limited color control
3. Fiber Optic Pool Lighting
Fiber optic systems use a dry light source housed outside the pool, with fiber cables delivering the glow into the water. Although not as common today, they’re still a stylish and safe option, especially for waterline and feature lighting.
- Pros: Safe (no electricity in the water), easy bulb replacement
- Cons: Dated technology, dimmer than LED, expensive to install
4. Floating Pool Lights
If you’re looking for a temporary or decorative solution, floating lights are a fun, budget-friendly way to light your pool — great for parties or seasonal vibes.
- Pros: Affordable, battery or solar powered, great ambiance
- Cons: Not a substitute for full lighting, can move around or tip over
Where to Install Lights
Strategic light placement can dramatically affect the mood and functionality of your pool. Here are common installation points to consider:
- Pool Walls: Most built-in lights are installed in the walls of the pool, usually 18 inches below the surface.
- Steps and Benches: Small LED lights add visibility and safety.
- Water Features: Illuminating waterfalls or bubblers adds dynamic movement to your nightscape.
- Deck and Landscape Lighting: Extend lighting beyond the pool for a cohesive backyard look.
When planning new construction, talk to your pool builder early about wiring and placement options. Retrofitting is possible, but easier when lights are part of the original design.
Smart Pool Lighting Systems
Want full control from your phone or voice assistant? Smart lighting systems are becoming increasingly popular for pools. You can control color, brightness, and schedules via an app — or integrate them with your home automation system.
- Popular brands: Pentair IntelliBrite, Hayward ColorLogic, Jandy WaterColors
- Features: Remote operation, custom light shows, energy tracking
Smart systems pair beautifully with LED setups and are perfect for homeowners who want a futuristic, hands-free experience.
Tips for Choosing the Right Pool Lighting
- Match lighting color to your pool finish and landscape style
- Use multiple lights for even coverage — one in the deep end isn’t enough
- Choose warm white for classic elegance or RGB LEDs for party vibes
- Always check compatibility with your pool’s electrical setup
- Consider maintenance — some lights require more frequent bulb changes
And don’t forget: good lighting is as much about what you don’t light as what you do. Shadows, reflections, and contrast make your space more visually interesting.
Final Thoughts
Lighting is one of the easiest ways to upgrade your inground pool experience. Whether you’re after subtle elegance or bold color shows, the right lighting will turn your pool into the centerpiece of your backyard — day and night.