Why have all my garden lights stopped working at once?

If all lights on a circuit failed simultaneously, the most likely cause is a failed transformer (for low-voltage systems) or a tripped MCB or RCD (for mains-voltage systems). Check these first.

Can I bury garden lighting cable myself?

Low-voltage (12V) cable can be buried at a shallow depth for decorative lighting. Mains-voltage cable must be SWA (steel wire armoured) buried at the correct depth, and installation should be done by a qualified electrician.

My lights come on during the day — why?

The photocell or dusk sensor may be faulty, dirty, or positioned where it is shaded during the day. Clean the sensor or reposition it so it can detect daylight properly.

Low risk

Updated 11 September 2026

Garden Lights Not Working

Your garden or outdoor lights have stopped working or are not coming on at all.

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What's happening?

Garden lighting includes a wide range of installations from low-voltage LED path lights to mains-voltage bollard lights and wall-mounted fittings. When they stop working, the cause is usually a failed transformer, a damaged cable, or a faulty fitting. Low-voltage garden lights (12V) are less dangerous than mains-voltage outdoor lights.

What usually causes it?

Failed transformer or driver unit for low-voltage LED garden lights
Damaged cable from gardening activity (digging, mowing, strimming)
Corroded connections at junction boxes or light fittings
Tripped MCB or RCD on the outdoor lighting circuit
Timer or photocell sensor not set correctly or has failed

Is it dangerous?

Low-voltage garden lights (12V) pose minimal shock risk, but mains-voltage outdoor lights (230V) are dangerous if cables are damaged. If you suspect a mains cable has been cut by a spade or mower, do not touch it. Turn off the circuit at the consumer unit immediately.

Can I fix it myself?

For low-voltage LED garden lighting, check the transformer is plugged in and working, and inspect visible cable connections for damage or corrosion. Replace any blown bulbs. For mains-voltage lighting, only check the consumer unit for tripped MCBs. Do not attempt to repair mains-voltage outdoor wiring yourself.

When should you call an electrician?

Call an electrician if you have mains-voltage garden lights that are not working, if you have accidentally cut through a cable while gardening, if the outdoor circuit keeps tripping, or if you want to install new permanent outdoor lighting. Any new mains-voltage outdoor circuit requires Part P notification.

What will the electrician actually do?

Trace the outdoor lighting circuit and test for cable damage or breaks
Inspect and clean corroded junction boxes and connections
Replace failed transformers, drivers, or light fittings
Repair or replace damaged buried cables with correctly rated armoured cable (SWA)
Test the completed circuit and issue appropriate certification