Pool Lights

Pool lights illuminate swimming pools, hot tubs, and garden ponds from within the water, creating visual effects and enabling safe use after dark. IP68-rated and built for permanent submersion, they require careful specification and professional electrical installation. Browse alongside garden spotlights for above-water poolside lighting and the full garden lighting range.

Find the right pool lights at Lyco

Underwater pool lighting serves two functions. The practical one: illuminating the pool floor and walls allows safe swimming and allows pool users and supervisors to see clearly into the water after dark. The aesthetic one: a well-lit pool after dark becomes a dramatic feature in the garden, the glow through the water creates a visual centrepiece that transforms the night-time garden landscape.

The critical specification requirement is IP68, protection against continuous immersion at a defined pressure. This is non-negotiable for any fitting that will be permanently submerged. The voltage of pool lighting is also regulated: in the UK, Pool Zone 0 (inside the pool water) requires SELV (Separated Extra Low Voltage) at 12V maximum. This means pool lights must be powered by a safety transformer or driver providing isolated 12V output, with no possibility of mains voltage reaching the water. This is not DIY territory, pool lighting installation must be carried out by a qualified electrician familiar with the requirements of BS 7671 and the specific pool zone regulations.

For hot tubs, the same IP68 and 12V SELV requirements apply. For garden ponds and water features without swimming use, the requirements are less stringent, but IP67 or IP68 fittings are still recommended for any submerged installation. For above-water poolside lighting, garden spotlights and outdoor wall lights can be used, subject to appropriate zone IP ratings. Lyco offers free delivery on all orders over £70.

Frequently Asked Questions

What IP rating do swimming pool lights need?

Pool lights for permanent submersion require IP68, which is protection against continuous immersion at a specified depth and pressure. This is the only appropriate rating for Zone 0 (inside the pool water) and Zone 1 (up to 2 metres above the pool water level). Do not use IP65 or IP67 fittings for submerged pool lighting; they are not rated for continuous immersion.

Can I install pool lights myself?

No. Pool lighting in swimming pools must be installed by a qualified electrician with knowledge of BS 7671 Wiring Regulations and the specific requirements for pool zones (BS EN 60598-2-18). The work involves SELV transformer specification, bonding requirements, and zone-specific wiring that carry significant safety implications if done incorrectly. Always use a qualified electrician.

What voltage do pool lights operate at?

A UK swimming pool Zone 0 (inside the water) requires a SELV (Separated Extra Low Voltage) supply at a maximum of 12V AC or DC. This requires a safety-isolating transformer between the mains supply and the pool light. Standard mains voltage must never reach pool water or the fittings within it.

Can pool lights change colour?

Yes, RGB and RGBW LED pool lights are widely available and allow colour-changing and scene effects to be controlled via a remote or smart controller. Colour-changing pool lighting is popular for hot tubs and decorative garden pools. For swimming pools with safety supervision requirements, ensure any colour modes include a clear, bright white setting for visibility purposes.

Do you sell pool lights near me?

Lyco delivers pool lights to all UK mainland addresses with next-working-day delivery as standard. Orders over £70 qualify for free delivery, and same-day dispatch applies to the vast majority of in-stock products across the range.