How To Install Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting Transformer

Overloading and cables that are too small for the load.

How to install low voltage outdoor lighting transformer.

Cables used in installing landscape lighting is typically buried underground. Why is it safe to install. The power behind every low voltage system is the transformer. It plugs into a gfci protected outdoor electrical outlet and steps down the house current from 120 volts to 12 volts.

Grab a shovel and follow this step by step guide for installing low voltage outdoor lighting. Most low voltage lighting systems include a transformer that is plugged into a regular outdoor electrical outlet. The most common problems when trying to install low voltage landscape lights are poor wire connections too many fixtures on one transformer i e. The transformer reduces or steps down the 120 volt household current to 12 volts.

Once your landscape lighting design is complete you can figure out what size of low voltage transformer you need. Installing low voltage outdoor lighting is a big impact diy project. The voltage that the light fixture needs is the same as the voltage supplied from your wall. The cable runs from the transformer to each light fixture to give them power.

The higher the rating the longer the cable and thus the more light fixtures. Low voltage lighting systems require lower voltage to operate than the typical power source supplies. Would you like to install outdoor lighting diy. We think you will also love our posts on 12 inspiring backyard lighting ideas and our own diy water feature for less than 30.

Most transformers are rated to handle a load of 100 to 300 watts. Low voltage electrical cable comes in several gauges 12 14 16 are the most common. Outdoor lighting can be used to illuminate paths steps and dark zones plus it can add artfully dramatic emphasis to your yard s best features. Because the power comes from a transformer which lowers standard 120 volt household wattage to 12 volts.

And since it s low voltage lighting it s safe to use and install even for beginners. So if the power source in your wall outputs 120 volts low voltage lighting fixtures require an input of just 12 or 24 volts.