Low Voltage Outdoor Lights
One solution to this predicament is a relatively new product known as low-voltage outdoor lights. Low-voltage outdoor lights systems use 12-volt current, similar to that used for most electric-train sets. Low voltage outdoor lights is great for security, and it can add charm and magic to a walkway, patio or garden. The right lighting can bring your landscape to life at night as well as help your guests see where they’re going.
These systems are safe and easy to install. Most homeowners can set up a low-voltage lighting system without help from an electrician. Another low-voltage advantage is that new lights can be installed while the power is on. This is especially helpful when you’re positioning lights at night.
At the heart of a low-voltage system is the transformer, which reduces household current and controls the times that the lights are on. Most transformers feature a timer that can be set for 4, 6 or 8 hours. Some models include a photocell that can be used to turn the lights on at night and off in the daytime.
Most lights are easy to assemble. Simply insert the light bulb (figure A), and attach the cover (figure B). Although some lights have separate wires that clamp to the power cable, other lights are clamped directly to the cable (figure C). Metal teeth in the clamp pierce the insulation on the cable and tap into the wiring. After you’ve connected the light, attach the stake (figure D), and route the power lines through channels inside the stake (figure E).
For those who prefer not to deal with cable, solar-powered lights are available. These lights are more expensive, however, and usually require an average of 8 hours of direct sunlight per day to function properly.
Exterior light fixtures come in a wide range of designs to suit different areas and create different lighting effects. Most fixture types are available in either 12-volt or 120-volt versions. For the homeowner, 12-volt, or low-voltage landscape lighting (please click here to see our Low Voltage Lighting products for your landscape) systems have several advantages. In contrast, a 120-volt system runs on the same power that supplies your home and requires the same precautions and expertise that normal house wiring does. Outdoor 120-volt lighting will need to be installed according to code and may require buried conduit. Once installed, 120-volt systems are relatively permanent, while outdoor landscape low-voltage lighting fixtures can easily be relocated if you wish to change your lighting scheme. One disadvantage with low voltage wiring is that that the wires are not buried deeply and are more prone to being damaged.
Another advantage of low-voltage lighting equipment is that it can be relatively inexpensive. And, when you do the job yourself, the bottom line for outdoor low-voltage lighting looks even better. Not only can the capital outlay for a standard high-voltage system be greater, but you may need to hire a professional for part or all of the installation. In addition to 12 – and 120-volt systems, some light fixtures use the energy in sunlight to provide electric light in the evening. These solar lamps have a photoelectric panel that charges a battery while the sun shines. When the sun goes down, a light sensor activates the lamp
