Want to install AC street lights but feel unsure where to start?

This step-by-step guide simplifies the entire AC street light installation process—from planning to testing. It's designed for first-time installers, municipal staff, or contractors.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to prepare, how to install properly, and how to avoid common mistakes.

Introduction: Installing AC Street Lights Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

Installing a street light system can feel overwhelming at first—but with a proper plan, it’s manageable and repeatable.

This guide is made for contractors, municipal engineers, facility maintenance teams, and industrial park managers who want to install AC lights efficiently and safely.

• You’ll learn how to:
  • Plan your site layout.
  • Choose and install the right pole and fixture.
  • Wire everything safely.
  • Run testing and basic maintenance.
• If you're sourcing lights from us, this process matches our products step-by-step.

Pre-Installation Planning: Power, Poles & Placement

Before lifting a single tool, you need a clear plan.

Without proper layout and approval, the project can fail before it begins. Pre-planning saves time, avoids rework, and ensures safety.

• Know your power source:
  • Where’s the nearest AC connection point?
  • Is it single-phase or three-phase?
  • Do you have permission from the utility or municipality?
• Layout and spacing:
  • Define the road width and required lighting coverage.
  • Common spacing for 100W–150W AC lights: 25–35 meters between poles.
  • Use a staggered layout for wide roads.
• Pole height and type:
  • 6–8m poles for streets.
  • 9–12m for highways or large complexes.
  • Choose galvanized steel or hot-dip poles for outdoor durability.
• Regulatory compliance:
  • Follow local safety codes.
  • Confirm with local building or utility authorities.
• Safety first:
  • Plan emergency shutoff zones and barriers during installation.

Tools and Materials Checklist

Showing up at site with missing tools causes delays.

Having the right tools and materials from the start ensures a smooth installation with no surprises.

• Basic Tools:
  • Multimeter
  • Power drill
  • Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
  • Crimping tool and wire strippers
  • Adjustable wrench and socket set
• Safety Gear:
  • Rubber gloves
  • Hard hat
  • Safety goggles
  • Insulated tools
  • High-visibility vest
• Installation Materials:
  • Junction boxes (IP65-rated)
  • AC-rated cables (2.5mm² or 4mm² depending on load)
  • Cable ties and clamps
  • Fasteners and anchor bolts
  • Control system unit (timer, photocell, or smart module)
  • Grounding rod (minimum 1.5m copper or GI)
• Optional Download: Printable checklist (ask us for a PDF)

Step-by-Step Installation Process (With Visuals)

Installation needs to follow a logical order. Skipping steps leads to costly errors.

Follow this sequence from the ground up to ensure a safe, working light system.

• Foundation Preparation:
  • Mark pole location as per layout.
  • Dig foundation hole (usually 1.2m deep).
  • Set anchor bolts in wet concrete aligned with base plate.
  • Wait 24–48 hours for full cure.
• Mounting the Pole and Fixture:
  • Use a crane or manual hoist to raise the pole.
  • Bolt the pole securely to the foundation base.
  • Mount the AC LED fixture on the arm or bracket.
  • Use anti-rust bolts and lock washers.
• Electrical Wiring:
  • Pull wires through pole conduit.
  • Connect phase, neutral, and ground wires securely in the junction box.
  • Use terminal blocks for clean connections.
  • Seal connections with waterproof gel or tape.
• Installing Control System:
  • Photocell: install on top of fixture or in box.
  • Timer: pre-set time for on/off cycles.
  • Smart unit: connect to network controller if available.
• Testing and Commissioning:
  • Use a multimeter to check voltage (usually 220V–240V).
  • Check light turn-on response and brightness.
  • Inspect grounding and ensure all joints are sealed.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Most failures happen because of poor wiring or bad planning—not bad products.

Avoid these errors to save time, money, and safety risks.

• Using the wrong cable gauge:
  • Always size your wire based on load and length.
• Poor grounding:
  • This causes flickering and safety risks.
  • Use a proper earth rod and confirm continuity.
• Incorrect mounting height or angle:
  • Leads to dark spots or overlit areas.
• Skipping junction box sealing:
  • Water enters and corrodes wires. Use IP65+ boxes and rubber gaskets.
• No labeling:
  • Always tag wires (phase, neutral, control) for future maintenance.

Basic Maintenance Tips After Installation

Once installed, your work isn’t over. Good maintenance ensures your lights keep working for years.

Simple monthly or quarterly checks can prevent major problems.

• Clean the fixture lens:
  • Remove dust and bird droppings that reduce brightness.
• Check for loose bolts or signs of rust:
  • Especially at the pole base and bracket.
• Inspect driver and control box:
  • Look for water buildup, burnt smells, or flickering signs.
• Test voltage and current with a multimeter:
  • Confirm the light is receiving correct voltage (220V–240V).
• Replace components:
  • If LEDs fade or fail, change the module or driver early.

FAQ: AC Street Light Installation Troubleshooting

• Can I install AC street lights without a professional electrician?
  No. A licensed electrician is required to ensure safety and compliance.

• How deep should the pole foundation be?
  Usually 1.2 meters deep, but may vary based on pole height and soil type.

• What is the standard pole spacing for street lights?
  For 100W–150W lights, spacing is typically 25 to 35 meters apart.

• How do I wire a street light to the main power supply?
  Connect phase (L), neutral (N), and ground (E) wires through a junction box, using proper insulation and waterproofing.