In-lite Outdoor Lighting: Starter Kits, Hub Setup, and 3 Quick Weekend Installs

Outdoor lighting is one of the simplest upgrades to transform a backyard, deck, or garden from forgettable to truly memorable. At The Ultimate Deck Shop, we get asked dozens of times each season about the best way to add both function and wow-factor to outdoor spaces—especially from homeowners and contractors looking for easy, professional results. In-lite outdoor lighting has earned a dedicated following, and for good reason. But what exactly is involved in getting started? And how do you go from a box of parts to a glowing oasis—ideally in a single weekend?

Why Choose In-lite Outdoor Lighting?

We’ve worked with many landscape lighting options, and in-lite consistently stands out because of its robust, energy-saving LED technology, super simple plug-and-play setup, and modular approach designed for both DIYers and ambitious pros. The system is fully low-voltage (safe for every skill level) but is engineered with the kind of thoughtful European design we love—sleek, weatherproof, and built to last in prairie winters or damp patio corners.

• Low-voltage, energy-efficient LEDs that cut energy use significantly.
• No electrician required: set up with simple connectors and basic tools.
• Flexible and expandable for nearly any backyard or garden layout.
• Smart controls available for customized schedules or remote operation.
• Beautiful high color rendering LEDs—outdoor spaces look vibrant, not washed out.

What’s In an In-lite Starter Kit?

If you’re new to landscape lighting, the starter kit is the right starting point. Here’s what you typically get when you choose an entry-level in-lite setup:

• In-lite HUB Transformer—the central brain, converts standard 110–120V power to safe 12V for the fixtures.
• Pre-terminated 12V low voltage cable. Most systems have 25–50 meters (plenty for a big deck, long walkway, or perimeter).
• Easy-Lock Connectors—one for each fixture, absolutely no wire-stripping or exposed splices.
• LED fixtures: Path, spot, recessed, or accent lights (type depends on your chosen kit or your own selections).
• Cable end caps, mounting accessories, and sometimes a light sensor or timer.

You can grow your kit over time. It’s as simple as snapping new fixtures onto the cable, without redoing what you’ve already installed.

Featured In-lite Products—What’s Popular For Canadian Backyards?

Based on customer feedback and what we use in our design consults, these are some in-lite fixtures homeowners around Regina and Saskatoon choose again and again:

• Fusion 60—soft-glow deck or driveway LED, ideal for step or perimeter accenting.
  

  

• Scope Ground Spotlight—for up-lighting key features, like trees or walls.
  

  

• In-lite Transformer (HUB)—the adaptable, touch-controlled transformer for every setup.
  

  

• Mini-Scope Ground Spotlight—perfect for smaller beds and garden path lighting.
  

  

How to Set Up Your In-lite HUB Transformer

This is the foundation. If you can hang a TV or assemble Ikea furniture, you’ll find in-lite’s setup refreshingly straightforward. Just follow these steps:

1. Mounting the HUB: Place your transformer near a weather-safe outdoor plug, about 30 cm above the ground. Avoid water-prone spots.
2. Connect Cable(s): Insert your in-lite 12V cable(s) into the HUB’s slots. Most have two outlets for independent zones.
3. Plug In + Program: Power up, then use the touchscreen or button control to set on/off times, sensors, or schedules. SMART HUBs even connect to your smartphone.
4. Route Your Cables: Lay them along garden beds, behind deck fascia, or under mulch. No need to bury them deep—just protect them from shovels and critters.

Always test as you go, and clip on your fixture using their Easy-Lock system. This gets rid of 99% of wiring headaches you might have had with other brands.

Pro Tip:

• Keep cable runs under 80 meters per transformer for reliable performance.
• Always seal ends with provided caps to prevent corrosion.
• If you need help with layout, our 3D design consults are free!

3 Quick Weekend In-lite Lighting Installs

Here are three of our favourite installs, each one designed so you (or your crew) can finish in a day or less. These ideas don’t just look good for one season—they’re a serious value add for your home and lifestyle.

1. Deck Step & Perimeter Lighting (2–3 hours)

• What You’ll Need: In-lite HUB transformer, Fusion 60 or Luna LED fixtures, 12V cable, Easy-Lock connectors.
• How-To:
  1. Lay out deck edge and stair locations every 3 to 4 feet for even light.
  2. Drill for recessed Fusion 60s or install Luna LEDs under rails/overhangs.
  3. Run the cable behind skirting (learn more about durable deck skirting here) for a clean, hidden look.
  4. Snap connectors, seal excess cable, and set your preferred on/off schedule.
• Result: Safe, inviting steps and gentle nighttime ambiance.

2. Pathway & Garden Bed Lighting (2–4 hours)

• What You’ll Need: In-lite HUB transformer, Mini-Scope fixtures with ground stakes, 12V cable, Easy-Lock system.
• How-To:
  1. Run your cable just below the mulch or within garden edging.
  2. Strategically place Mini-Scope spotlights every 4–8 feet, angling to accent plantings or curves.
  3. Clip to the cable, test placements at dusk for best visual impact.
  4. Enhance efficiency with optional sensors or timers.
• Result: A beautiful, safe walkway with dramatic garden highlights.
  For maximum curb appeal, consider combining this with a paver or stone path.

3. Pergola Accent or String Lighting (1–2 hours)

• What You’ll Need: In-lite HUB or low-voltage transformer, Luna downlights (for beams), or patio string lights such as MyPatio 10' LED Patio Lights.
  

  

• How-To:
  1. Pre-drill for Luna lights or attach string lights to rafters with clips.
  2. Hide cable along wooden beams or posts. If you’re tackling a new pergola or major structure, check our Pergolas & Shade Structures pillar page for building resources and expert help.
  3. Connect, test, and set your control schedule for perfect evening gatherings.
• Result: The ultimate entertaining area, combining structure and lighting for flexible, year-round enjoyment.

Expert Design & Pro Installation Help

One of our strengths at The Ultimate Deck Shop is the ability to help you combine lighting, decking, and shade in a way that both looks cohesive and works for your lifestyle, local weather, and specific yard geometry. Along with free 3D design consults, we offer tool rentals and optional managed installation for those who want guaranteed results without the stress. Whether you’re building a new space from the ground up or retrofitting an older deck, you can reach out to our specialists for guidance and sourcing the best materials for your project.

We’ve also written in-depth about pergola material trends and ideas for 2025—perfect if you want to create an integrated deck, shade, and lighting plan from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a starter kit setup take?

For a small deck or pathway, expect between 1 and 3 hours. Add more fixtures or zones, and a full day or a weekend is plenty for most homeowners.

Can I expand the system later?

Yes—just tap into your existing cable with more Easy-Lock connectors. That’s the biggest reason we recommend in-lite for evolving outdoor spaces.

How many fixtures can a transformer support?

The HUB-50 can run approximately 10–15 LED fixtures, the HUB-100 covers 20–25 depending on their wattage. For large or segmented yards, adding a second transformer is an easy upgrade.

Do I need a permit?

Low-voltage (12V) systems do not require a building or electrical permit in Canadian residential applications.

Plan Lighting That Suits Your Space

Outdoor lighting isn’t just about curb appeal—it’s a safety investment and a way to use your backyard late into the night, even on those crisp prairie evenings. By choosing fixtures that work with decks, hardscaping, and custom structures, you also get to futureproof your upgrades. Our clients see especially strong results when they plan for lighting while designing or building pergolas and shade structures—running cable and mounting points before finishes go on means less retrofitting, more enjoyment. Check our blog on pergola trends for inspiration.

If you’re just starting out, drop by our Regina or Saskatoon locations (or chat online) for a hands-on look at the lighting options and to plan your project step by step. Our team is ready to help you avoid common mistakes, source the exact products you need, and get you from bland yard to beautiful results—quickly and stress-free.

Ready To Start?

From starter basics to full custom systems, the right lighting lets you enjoy your backyard for more months and more occasions. Explore our collection of in-lite lighting—from the Fusion 60 for step accents to Scope spotlights for landscaping and MyPatio string lights for patio gatherings. Ask our deck pros about combining lighting with decks, hardscaping, and shade for a unified design.

And if you’re thinking of bigger upgrades, don’t miss our resource pillar for Pergolas & Shade Structures—from DIY materials to turnkey design help.

You’re never more than a few steps away from a bright, safe, and seriously stunning backyard.