Expert Advice
Low Voltage Landscape Lighting, Explained Simply
Almost all landscape lighting today is low voltage. Here is what that means, and why it matters for safety and cost.
If you are shopping for outdoor lighting, you will hear low voltage a lot. Here is what it means.
How it works
A transformer plugs into an outdoor outlet near the house. It steps household power down to a low voltage, and a cable runs from it out to each light.
Why it is the standard
- The cable carries low voltage, which is why it can be run just under the ground.
- Lights can be added or moved later without rewiring the house.
- LED fixtures on low voltage use little power.
Turning it on and off
The standard setup uses a photocell that turns the lights on at dusk and off at dawn. A smart transformer you control from your phone is an option if you want schedules.
What makes a system last
Good connections that are sealed against water, the right size transformer, and fixtures made for outdoor use.
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