How to Install and Maintain Your Underwater Fish Lights for Maximum Efficiency

Installing your Underwater Fish Light is simpler than you might think. Our lights are designed for easy installation so you can quickly start observing fish. We want you to spend your time enjoying the fish, not figuring out how to assemble the light.

Preparing Your Dock for Underwater Dock Lights

Before installing the underwater dock lights, you’ll need to prepare your dock. Ensure you have a 110-volt outlet available. All our dock light systems come with an inline GFCI plug that connects directly to a 110-volt outlet. You’ll need a post on your dock to mount the control box, which should be within 5 feet of the outlet.

Depending on the size of the dock light and the mounting post, consider using a Dock System Mounting Plaque to securely attach the control box to your dock post.

Installing Your New Underwater Dock Light

Once your dock is properly set up, you can begin installing your fish light. Here is a step-by-step guide for the installation:

1. Mount the Control Box: Attach the control box to a post or piling at least 4 to 6 feet above the waterline and within 5 feet of a GFCI-approved outlet. Do not over-tighten the screws.
2. Ventilate: Ensure the control box is in a well-ventilated area. Don’t mount your control box against a metal surface.
3. Attach the Weight: Use the included heavy-duty zip ties to attach the weight to the light assembly wire. If your water depth is less than 7 to 8 feet, you will attach the weight about 2 to 3 inches from the base of the housing/bulb. If your water is deeper than that, you will want to attach the weight further up the wire so that the glass bulb sits higher in the water column.
   • Carefully lower the weight and glass bulb into the water at your desired location. We suggest placing the lights 10 feet off your dock or seawall for the best results. Using a pool skimmer, gaff hook, or kayak is usually the easiest methods of deployment. Do not throw, toss, or pitch the lights into the water as this could damage the bulb upon impact.
   • Handle with Care: Avoid bumping or banging the glass bulb. The glass must always be submerged and should never be lit out of the water.
4. Attach the Photocell: Align the prongs and use the “twist-lock” mechanism to attach the photocell to the top of the box.
5. Plug In: Connect the 5-foot power cord with the inline GFCI to the outlet.
6. Enjoy: Wait for sunset and enjoy your new fish light!

Want to watch an install instead of reading about it? You can do that here!

Protecting Your Fish Light

Underwater Fish Lights are self-cleaning, so you won’t need to worry about taking out the bulbs and cleaning them regularly. However, protecting your fish light from damage is one of the best ways to keep it running for many years:

Protect the Wire: The most common damage is to the wire leading to the glass bulb, often caused by fishhooks and damaged wire will cause the inline GFCI to shut down the system. We recommend our Wire Shield which is conveniently pre-slit for easy installation.

Bulb Cage: All our systems include removable bulb cages. While in operation, our glass bulbs run hot enough to prevent the growth of barnacles, but with the cage installed, this process will not occur as easily. Over time and depending on your location, you may develop barnacle growth, however this can easily be remedied by pulling your light from the water, unplugging the system and allowing the glass bulb and cage to soak in pure white vinegar for no less than 24 hours. In turn, the white vinegar will break down the calcification and any remnants can be wiped off with an old towel. If you do have concerns with barnacles accumulating, you can always remove the bulb cages prior to deployment. Please note that the cage will not protect against damage from boat props or significant impact.

GFCI Safety: The GFCI plug shuts down the system if there’s any damage to prevent overheating and ensure safety.

Seasonal Residents

Many Underwater Fish Light owners are seasonal residents, often referred to as snowbirds, who travel north during the summer months. If you fall into this category, it is advisable to remove your Underwater Fish Light from the water before you leave:

1. Uninstall Carefully: Unplug the system first to avoid electrical hazards.
2. Wrap the Glass Bulbs: Use protective bubble wrap to prevent damage during storage.
3. Store Safely: Place the wrapped bulbs and other components in a safe, dry place.

Reinstalling your Underwater Fish Light when you return is equally important to maintain its functionality. By following these steps, you protect the delicate components from potential damage:

1. Inspect Each Part: Check everything to ensure it’s in good working order.
2. Reinstall: Follow the installation steps to set up your light again.

By doing this, you protect your investment and ensure your light system lasts longer, ready to mesmerize you with underwater illumination.