What Are the Best Swimming Pool Replacement Lights?

Ever felt overwhelmed when selecting swimming pool light replacements for your backyard oasis? You're not alone. The right pool lighting can change your entire swimming experience while slashing your energy costs.

LED pool lights have changed the game completely. Options like GalaxyBrite cut energy costs by 80% or more while lasting up to 50,000 hours—that's roughly 20 years of illumination! Today's swimming pool replacement lights offer features that seemed impossible just a few years back. PAL’s Pool Lighting Systems deliver millions of colors and multi-zone control capabilities. Hayward's ColorLogic 2.0 LED lights showcase 10 solid colors and 7 dynamic, color-changing light shows and Pentair’s Intelibrite Series recent product updates save energy and have dimming capabilities.

But here's what really matters: modern pool lights aren't just about the visual wow factor.

Nicheless lights give you greater design flexibility and install easier than traditional options. Environmentally conscious swimmers will love turtle-safe pool lights that emit lower frequencies, protecting wildlife without sacrificing beauty. When you consider that Hayward's LED lights last up to 10 times longer than incandescent alternatives while saving up to 84% on energy costs, the upgrade decision becomes pretty clear.

Ready to figure out which swimming pool light replacement works best for your pool? Let's walk through the top options available today and help you light up your pool with confidence. At Shasta Pool Supply, part of Shasta Industries, we’ve help thousands of pool owners find the right products for their specific needs. With decades of hands-on experience in pool construction, maintenance, and equipment, we know what really works and what doesn’t. So let’s walk through the top lighting options available today and help you light up your pool. 

PAL Lighting brings something different to the table with their unique lens optic system. Comparatively, the development team works on pool lighting only. After 30+ years, they've developed the "EvenGlow effect." Honestly, it addresses a real problem many pool owners face with harsh LED beams.

Evenglow Pool Light key features

The Evenglow offers millions of color options including Multi-Color, Cool White, and Warm White. Specifically, the color wheel creates endless possibilities. Next, Pal Lighting's compatibility with major automation systems from Hayward, Pentair, and Jandy make an easy pool light replacement choice.

You can choose between 80' or 150' cord options depending on your pool setup. These lights fit most standard pool niches and work with both concrete and vinyl pools. They're UL676 certified for pool and spa use.
Power specs break down like this:

• Multi-Color Light: 30W (12V DC) / 27.5W (24V DC)
• White Light (Warm or Cool): 30W (12/24V DC) / 35W (12V AC)

The multi-color versions come with Color Touch technology and remote-control capabilities. You can adjust colors, speed, brightness, and modes. The system remembers your last settings for color, speed, and brightness.

Evenglow Pool Light pros and cons

Pros:

• Unique lens optics create even illumination without harsh LED beams
• Music playlists sync pool lights creating a "dance" effect
• Reduces shadowing and hot spots compared to traditional lighting
• Solid 3-year manufacturer's warranty
  Uses only 30 watts compared to 400W incandescent
• Remote control allows infinite color selection
• Serviceable and detachable design

Cons:

• Professional installation required to maintain warranty
• Requires specific 12VDC or 24VDC PAL transformer
• Higher upfront cost than traditional incandescent options
• Some models have different warranty periods (24 months in some regions)
• Limited availability compared to more established brands

Need a hassle-free pool light replacement that doesn't require rewiring? The GalaxyBrite LED Pool Light might be exactly what you're looking for. Manufactured by Blue Square, this lighting solution stands out in the crowded swimming pool replacement light market with its unique plug-and-play design.

GalaxyBrite Key Features

The LED pool light features an advanced design that creates a compact, stylish underwater light. It easily retrofits into existing pool niches. What makes this swimming pool light replacement special is its patented waterproof Plug Kit, which comes factory-fitted to the supply cord, allowing for simple connection and detachment to the rear of the light.

The GalaxyBrite includes an anti-glare lens that ensures increased beam spread and diffused illumination throughout your pool interior. The all-plastic construction eliminates the need for bonding or grounding, keeping pool users safe.

These lights come in various colors and intensities:

• Cool White (6,500K) - standard and MAX versions with 2,950 and 4,850 lumens respectively
• Warm White (2,850K) - standard and MAX versions with 2,850 and 4,700 lumens respectively
• Blue (465nm) - standard and MAX versions with 580 and 950 lumens respectively
• Amber (Turtle Friendly) - offering 1,360 lumens
• Multi-Color options compatible with Pentair, Jandy, and Hayward controllers

The lights also work with popular third-party controllers, giving you flexibility in how you manage your pool lighting system.

GalaxyBrite Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Simple installation: Thanks to the Vivid plug, you can connect to your existing viable light cable without pulling new wiring.
• Energy efficiency: These safer, low-voltage lights consume significantly less power than traditional incandescent options.
• Durability: With time-tested technology and proven reliability, these lights offer long-term performance.
• Versatility: The adjustable tab system ensures compatibility with most lighting niches.
• Safety: The all-plastic construction eliminates the need for bonding/grounding.
• Compatibility: Works with existing control systems from major brands like Pentair, Jandy, and Hayward.

Cons:

• Professional installation required: Blue Square mandates that a licensed professional electrician install their lights, or the warranty will be void.
• Initial cost: As with most LED pool lighting solutions, the upfront cost is higher than halogen or incandescent lights.
• Transformer needed: A 12-14 volt transformer is required for all Blue Square low-voltage lighting.
• Non-serviceable components: Similar to other LED lighting, if internal components fail, the entire fitting needs replacement.
• Potential for leaking: Though less common with modern designs, LED lights can still be susceptible to leaking.

Pentair markets some of the pool industry's top selling equipment. Furthermore, the IntlliBrite rank among the most recognized swimming pool lights. The IntelliBrite Architectural Series positions itself as an energy-efficient solution for pool owners who want reliable illumination.

The Architectural Series uses advanced LED technology that delivers both color-changing capabilities and white light options. Altogether, this lighting system includes custom reflector and innovative lens design. Further, making it among the most efficient underwater lights you can buy. The lights rotate 180° to provide either a wide beam pattern (standard) or a narrow beam pattern, letting you customize based on your pool's specific needs.

The IntelliBrite Architectural offers five predetermined fixed colors (blue, green, magenta, white, and red) and seven preprogrammed 'color shows'. The pool lights work seamlessly with Pentair automation systems.

Pentair Intellibrite pros and cons

Pros:

• Energy efficiency - IntelliBrite white LED lights consume up to 86% less electricity than traditional incandescent and halogen pool lights. The white lights use only 45-70 watts while providing illumination equivalent to 300-500 watt incandescent bulbs.
• Superior light distribution - The combination of lens geometry and exclusive reflector design creates a wider beam pattern with more uniform light distribution, eliminating hot spots and glare.
• Versatility - Available in both 120V and 12V versions to accommodate different pool setups.
• Color options - Offers both fixed colors and dynamic light shows for customizable pool ambiance.
• Control integration - Compatible with Pentair automation systems for convenient operation.

Cons:

• Reliability concerns - Some users report short lifespans, with lights failing within 1-2 years. The average lifespan appears to be about 2-4 years according to some sources.
• Limited lighting options offering 5 preprogrammed colors
• Expensive replacement parts - Replacement components nearly cost as much as the entire light unit.
• Limited warranty - Only 2 years warranty coverage.
• Mixed quality control - Some customers have received poorly packaged products.
• Professional installation recommended - For optimal performance and to avoid issues, professional installation is advised.

The ColorLogic 2.0 LED Pool Light pack an impressive combination of vivid colors and practical features. Additionally, Hayward lights position itself as a versatile solution for pool owners wanting to upgrade their lighting. You get 10 solid colors and 7 dynamic, color-changing light shows, letting you set the perfect atmosphere for any occasion. 

Connect these to Hayward's Omni Automation Systems and the capabilities expand further—10 additional colors plus advanced features like enhanced navigation, dimming, and speed control.

What makes the ColorLogic 2.0 stand out? Its compatibility with existing pool infrastructure. These LED pool lights are UL listed for safe installation in virtually any manufacturer's niche. This makes them an excellent swimming pool light replacement option without requiring major modifications to your pool.

Hayward ColorLogic 2.0 pros and cons

Pros:

• Versatile color options: With 10 solid colors and 7 dynamic light shows (plus additional options when paired with Omni systems), these lights offer extensive customization
• Universal compatibility: UL listed for installation in most manufacturers' niches, making them an adaptable swimming pool replacement light
• Smart design features: Includes detachable cord, targeted light distribution, and adjustable mounting options
• Premium illumination: Industry-leading color technology provides deeper, richer hues that enhance your pool's appearance
• Multiple trim options: Various color choices allow for design flexibility
• Encapsulated electronics: Totally sealed components provide next-level durability in harsh conditions

Cons:

• Reliability concerns: Some users report frequent failures requiring multiple replacements, even under warranty
• High replacement cost: At approximately $500-900 per light, replacing failed units outside warranty can be expensive
• Short lifespan: Many customers indicate that bulbs rarely last more than 15 months, contrary to marketing claims of much longer life
• Quality control issues: Numerous reports suggest ongoing product quality challenges
• Expert installation required: For optimal performance and warranty coverage, professional installation is recommended

Making sense of all these pool light options? Here's how they stack up against each other, broken down by the features that actually matter for your decision.

Choosing the right swimming pool light replacement changes your entire pool experience while cutting your energy bills dramatically. We've walked through five solid options, each with their own strengths.

Here's the truth: LED technology wins, hands down. These systems use up to 86% less electricity than old incandescent lights while lasting 10-20 times longer. That's real money staying in your pocket.

Match your choice to your situation:

• Large pools needing uniform light: Pentair's superior distribution works best
• Shallow areas and accent lighting: Blue Square nicheless fits perfectly
• Pool renovations: Vivid360's plug-and-play design saves hassle
• Hayward ColorLogic creates vibrant scenes without extra controllers.
• Eliminating harsh LED beams: Evenglow's lens technology creates even illumination

The bottom line? Any of these LED options will light up your pool beautifully while saving you money for years to come. Pick the one that fits your pool setup and budget. Your nighttime swimming experience will never be the same.

Want more information before making your purchase. If you have questions about which light works best for your specific pool, contact our customer service team for personalized guidance. We offer multiple ways to get expert advice. Use our Talk to an Expert button or click the Chat icon. Both of these features provide access on every page.

Pentair - More Light. More Pool Time

Hayward - Brighter is Better

Pal Lighting - Light Up the World

Blue Square - Lightyears Ahead of the Competition