Do I Need to Adjust My Landscape Lighting More Than Once a Year?

East Hampton landscape lighting highlighting trees and gardens at night with seasonal adjustments for fall and winter.

As the seasons start to change, outdoor lighting is one of the simplest ways to bring out the beauty of your home while also improving safety and curb appeal. For homeowners in the Hamptons, landscape lighting is also a way to extend outdoor living into every season. A common question we hear at Hamptons Landscape Lighting is whether once the lights are installed, they need to be adjusted again.

The short answer is yes. Even the most thoughtfully designed lighting system benefits from regular maintenance. Here is why.

Why Landscape Lighting Needs Adjustments

Landscape lights aren’t static. Over time, natural changes can shift how your system performs:

  • Plant growth: Trees, shrubs, and flowers reshape the way light falls as they grow.

  • Weather: Heavy rain, snow, or strong winds can nudge fixtures out of place.

  • Seasonal changes: Fall and winter landscape lighting looks and feels different once leaves drop and shadows lengthen.

  • Daily life: Lawn care, pets, and children may unintentionally move or tilt fixtures.

How Often Should Lights Be Adjusted?

  • At minimum: Once a year. Annual adjustments keep your system aligned and your focal points lit.

  • Best practice: Twice a year, usually in spring after new growth and mulch, and in fall after leaves drop.

  • Special occasions: Hosting a wedding, holiday, or outdoor event? A quick tune up ensures everything shines.

Signs It’s Time for an Adjustment

  • Uneven lighting or dark patches where light once fell

  • Fixtures casting light into the sky or ground instead of on features

  • Glare that feels uncomfortable rather than inviting

  • A design that no longer looks balanced compared to its original plan

DIY vs Professional Tune Ups

You can make small tweaks on your own, but a professional service ensures your system performs at its best. Professionals provide:

  • Precise aiming for beauty and efficiency

  • Cleaning of lenses and fixtures for maximum brightness

  • Repositioning lights to complement seasonal growth

  • Inspection of wiring, timers, and transformers for reliability

The Takeaway

Landscape lighting is not a set it and forget it investment. For the best results, schedule at least one annual adjustment—or even better, seasonal tune ups. With proper outdoor lighting maintenance, your Hamptons landscape lighting will continue to highlight your home’s architecture and gardens beautifully while ensuring safety, efficiency, and year round curb appeal.


Ready to schedule your seasonal adjustment? Contact us today and our team will make sure your home shines through fall and winter.


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