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Yes, outdoor lights and receptacles should be on a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for safety. The outdoors is considered a wet location where GFCI protection is generally required. A GFCI enhances safety by automatically tripping and shutting off the circuit if it detects an imbalance, which protects against electrocution and reduces the risk of an electrical fire. While it is the safest approach for all outdoor electrical components, specific requirements can vary depending on the type of light (e.g., pool lights), its location, and local electrical codes. For guidance tailored to your specific situation, it's best to consult a professional electrician.

Replacing a pool light costs about $625 per light. If you only need to replace the light bulb, plan on paying about $20 to $100 per light. The largest cost factors include the type of pool light, the number of pool lights needed, and the labor costs in your location. But additional cost factors include work required on existing wiring, other repairs, and the continual maintenance needed to keep your pool light in good working condition after installation.

There are tons of different types of landscape lighting available, including the choice between solar and wired, incandescent and LED, and a variety of colors. Specific types of lighting include:

• Pathway lights: $50–$150 per fixture

• String lights: $50–$150

• Low-voltage lights: $90–$150 per fixture

• Porch lights: $65–$250 per fixture

• Floodlights: $75–$250 per fixture

• Downlights: $100–$400 per fixture

• Uplights: $100–$400 per fixture

• Security lights: $ 350–$500 per fixture

• Lamp posts: $400–$1,100 per lamp post

If your lights are shorting out during rain storms or other winter events, you should probably replace them. These shorts indicate electrical issues that could cause serious hazards. Look for outdoor-rated lights with connectors made for rainy conditions to replace them. But if your Christmas lights are new and you want further protection, you can find weatherproof covers to add to the male-end connectors of your Christmas light strings. These can minimize the risk of shorts.