The original post lights installed by original builder do have their shortcomings. The WPCA board would like to remind homeowners to replace their post light bulbs as soon as they notice them out. Below you can find information on replacement bulbs, fixtures, and photocells.
Replacement Bulbs
Post Light bulbs should be replaced as soon after they burnout as possible. Halogen bulbs, while a bit more expensive than regular incandescent bulbs, last considerably longer and are more efficient (produce more light per watt) than standard incandescents. The Philips 60 watt halogen bulb (stocked at area Home Depot stores) looks attractive and lasts a long time. Note that the cluster standards prohibit the use of Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs in post lights.
Replacement Fixture
There have been numerous problems with the post light fixtures that were originally installed when the community was built. That fixture is no longer being manufactured. The Reston Design Review Board has approved a replacement post lamp. It is part number P5430-10 in Polished Brass and is made by Progress Lighting. It can be ordered from Dulles Electric (phone 703-450-5700).
Replacement Photocell
Does your post light remain lit during most/all daylight hours? If so, chances are the photocell that is supposed to turn the light off when it is bright outside is probably broken. Don’t worry, Home Depot and Lowes stock replacement photocells and the entire assembly can be easily replaced in about 5 minutes. For safety’s sake you should turn off the circuit breaker feeding the post light before attempting to replace the photocell, although there are no exposed wires and numerous photocells have been replaced when the power has been on.
- In the outdoor lighting department purchase Summit Lighting part CP320 (EZEE Change Photo Control).
- Turn off the circuit breaker supplying power to your post light (hint: plug an electrical device into the outlet on the outside of your house next to the garage–this device will go off when you turn off the post light circuit breaker because the outlet and light are fed from the same circuit breaker).
- Remove the 2 screws that hold your photocell to the lamp post.
- Pull the old photocell out of the lamp post.
- At the end of the photocell wiring (about 8 inches long) there is an electrical connector. Separate the two connectors, making sure that the relatively short wires coming from the post light aren’t accidentallypulled back into the lamp post.
- Connect the replacement photocell to the connector coming the lamp post. The connector is designed to only fit one way but visually you can look to make sure the red, white and black wires are aligned on both connectors.
- Screw the new photocell back into the lamp post.
- Turn the circuit breaker back on.
Once the power is back on if you place your finger over the photocell for a few seconds, the light should go on. Take your finger off of the photocell and the light should go off. Doug Steinberg (in 1352) has replaced numerous photocells in the neighborhood and would be glad to help with replacing your photocell if you would like assistance.
