Wiring Landscape Lighting Transformer

Properly wiring the transformer and running center fed wires to fixtures at the correct voltage is one of the most overlooked pieces in the building of low voltage landscape lighting systems today.

Wiring landscape lighting transformer.

The transformer reduces or steps down the 120 volt household current to 12 volts. When designing or wiring landscape lights it is extremely important not to go over the wattage capability of the transformer plus by having the extra wattage available will allow you to add more lighting to your system in the future if you desire. Pairing the size of the transformer to the lighting design is important for good operation and function of your light system. Low voltage landscape lighting is a simple improvement that can make a huge difference in how your home looks after dusk and in its safety and security as well.

Transformers commonly range from 120 to 900 watt capacity. 12 and 16. Most transformers are rated to handle a load of 100 to 300 watts. Second you need to be able to distribute equal voltage to every single fixture in your landscape lighting system and that takes a well planned wiring method.

Step 1 landscape lighting overview illustration by gregory nemec. The higher the rating the longer the cable and thus the more light fixtures. Low voltage landscape lighting connections using kichler quick discs and waterproof wire connectors are the subject of episode 38 of http rustyshovel tv. Once your landscape lighting design is complete you can figure out what size of low voltage transformer you need.

The 12 fixtures are connected with 12 gauge cable and powered by a 300 watt transformer. Most low voltage lighting systems include a transformer that is plugged into a regular outdoor electrical outlet. The only wiring method that can get equal voltage to every fixture is an equalized hub method of wiring. Landscape lighting adds safety security and aesthetic appeal.