Low voltage lighting systems have been around for decades and they are still being used today because of their energy efficiency features. However, low voltage is not defined as low power consumption alone because they also have efficient controls such as timers and photocells so they activate only when needed to conserve even more energy and even make them environmental friendly. While low voltage outdoor lighting may sound like a complexity, there are easy ways to set up your own low voltage lighting system.
About Low-voltage Outdoor Kits
If you want the easiest way possible and still want the excitement of doing things by yourself, you can go for a low-voltage outdoor kit. These kits come in various sizes and can come out very basic costing $15. More sophisticated kits that cover larger areas can go for over $100. The prices of these kits may be higher if they make use of LED or fluorescent lights but these types of lighting systems are recommended because they can actually save you money in the future as they have the best energy efficiency. If you go for the low-cost outdoor kit, think about upgrading in the future so your electric bill does not go overboard. You can also quickly tell how efficient the outdoor kit is if you see the Energy Star or EU Ecolabel logo. These logos also ensure that the kit has been built with quality and high durability in mind.
Don’t be afraid to start with a small outdoor kit too because many of these kits are designed to be expandable in case you want to add more lights in the future. Once you have your kit ready, simply follow the included guide and apply your basic design knowledge to adapt to your surroundings, you should have a fully functional low-voltage outdoor lighting system.
Basic Installation Tips
Prepare a screwdriver, wire nipper, pliers, and shovel or hand trowel because they serve as basic tools that you will likely use as you go along the way. Before getting started, come up with a solid light plan that best makes use of all the items in your outdoor kit. An ideal setup is a cluster of lights that are about 8 to 10 feet apart which should be enough to evenly light up a walkway or boundary for a garden.
Then do the electrical math by adding up the wattage so you know how to make use of your transformers in order to reduce the household current. Keep in mind that transformers are usually 100 watts so if you need 150 watts, you will need to find another that can sustain that amount. If you are not confident in dealing with the transformer, do not hesitate to seek the assistance of a professional. The shovel or hand trowel is for digging the holes or softening the ground since you will be standing up the lamps upright. Aside from the electrical work, installing low-voltage outdoor kits are quite simple and you can freely customize them or expand them whenever you need to.