How Many Landscape Lights Can You Install On A Low Voltage Transformer
Transformer power spec considerations: Calculating Voltage Amps as opposed to Watts, will show you the true power draw on your line, and this is why it is advisable to use this number to ensure you dont purchase a landscape lighting transformer that isnt adequate to power your lighting design installation, since it will only cause issues for you down the road eating into your profit and your customers happiness.
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Why is the firm conducting this recall?
Answer:
We are conducting this voluntary recall to keep our customers safe.
How can I tell if my is affected by the recall?
Answer:
See section Step 1 on this page.
My LED transformer appears to be operating okay. Can I continue to use it?
Answer:
No. Even though your product appears to be safe, we are asking all customers to immediately stop using the product and participate in the recall by returning the product to us for a free replacement.
I no longer have the receipt for the product. Can I still return it?
Answer:
Yes. You can still return the product without a receipt. Our customer service will ask that you provide a picture of the LED driver in order to ensure that you will receive the appropriate replacement.
Will I be able to repair the product myself?
Answer:
No. We urge you not to attempt to repair the product yourself. Please return it to us immediately for a free replacement
How long will it take for me to get a repair/replacement?
Answer:
Replacement may take from 4 to 8 weeks
We apologize for any inconvenience and assure you we are working as quickly as possible to replace your product.
How To Connect Lighting Runs To The Transformer
The home run cable has two wires. One wire gets connected to the common terminal the other wire connects to a voltage terminal . Low voltage wire does not have polarity it does not matter which of the two wires connects to the common terminal and which to the voltage terminal, as long as one wire goes to each.
The correct voltage terminal is the one that results in an optimal voltage at the fixtures connected to that run. For example, with our 300W Multi-Tap Transformer, you can output at a variety of voltages to compensate for voltage drop. So if you have a long run of 100 feet, you may need to use the 15v voltage terminal in order to have 12v of power all the way out at the far away fixtures.
You can hook up multiple home runs to each and any of the terminals. For example, you may have six home runs, in which case you would have six wires in the same COM terminal and the other half of the 10-2 wires go into the voltage terminals, which can have multiple runs/wires in each tap as well.
To connect a home-run wire to the terminals:
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Types Of Landscape Lighting
Before learning how to install landscape lighting, choose which type of lights you want. There are three types of landscape lighting, which all have different install methods:
- Solar landscape lights are powered by a photovoltaic cell that is charged during the day. They dont require any wiring, making them the simplest to install. They require six to eight hours of direct sunlight a day to fully charge.
- Low voltage landscape lights are powered through a transformer that lowers the regular voltage down to 12-volts. These systems are safe to work with, energy efficient and easy to install and move. They are plugged into a GFCI outlet outside.
- Line voltage landscape lights operate at 120-volts, the same voltage as the appliances in your home. Line voltage lights are hardwired to your homes electrical system with the use of an electrical junction box and a conduit that protects the wires. Due to the complexity of these systems, theyre best installed by a licensed electrician.
Solar and low voltage lights are by far the most common landscape lighting systems installed today. In this guide, well show you how to install all three types of landscape lights.
Large Landscape Lighting Design System Power Draw Formula
Again, if you want to connect twenty landscape lights to a low volt transformer, and the lights are pulling 4W / 7VA / 35 Watts of halogen power draw on the system, you would need a 300 watt transformer. since 150W transformer will not give you enough buffer of the recommended 20-25% below maximum watts rating, for your new landscape lighting system to stay properly lit for many years ahead.
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Check The Electrical Connections
After you set up the transformer, plan the layout. Depending on the style of the light, you can assemble it and press it into the ground or drive the base into the ground and screw the light onto the base. Some lights have adjustable shades that help you direct the light onto specific areas. Connect the light by clamping the wires to the power cable. Turn on the power to check the electrical connections, and make the final adjustments at night.
Lay Out the Lights
After you set up the transformer, plan the layout. Depending on the style of the light, you can assemble it and press it into the ground or drive the base into the ground and screw the light onto the base. Some lights have adjustable shades that help you direct the light onto specific areas. Connect the light by clamping the wires to the power cable. Turn on the power to check the electrical connections, and make the final adjustments at night.
Although most lights must be assembled, it’s easy to put them together. Start by running the wires from the light assembly through the riser base and attach the stake. Insert the light bulb, then attach the lens and cover.
How To Install Low Voltage Lighting
Most low voltage lighting systems include a transformer that is plugged into a regular outdoor-rated GFCI electrical outlet. The transformer reduces, or “steps down,” the 120-volt household current to 12-volts. Connecting landscape lights with a transformer is more involved than installing solar lights, but still easier than installing line voltage lighting.
- Most transformers are rated to handle a load of 100- to 300-watts. A higher rating means a longer cable, and thus more light fixtures you can connect to the system.
- If you want to add more path lights than a transformer is rated for, you will need a bigger transformer. It can be more cost-effective to buy a whole new system in a landscape light kit, rather than buying just a new transformer.
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It Looks Like A Patchwork Quilt Of Light And Dark
I just got home, its dark, and our landscape lights arent working, says Christina.
Matt groans. Ugh, guess I better go take a look then. Christina sighs. Wouldnt it be easier to get our lighting contractor to come out and take a look? They know what theyre looking for and how to fix most problems.
Matt nods. Thats true, but Id rather not spend the money on something we can probably do ourselves. Christinas eyebrow rises. Thats a good p0int. Its probably because we didnt look up how to maintain landscape lights that this happened.
Yep. We can probably find some methods for how to troubleshoot landscape lights on Google, points out Matt. Christina shrugs and nods as she gets her phone out to start Googling.
Here are the 7 problems they find and the solutions to try:
Wire Plays An Important Role In Your Lighting Design Considerations For Power
Additionally, when considering what wire gauge to use for your landscape lighting design installation, its best to understand that different gauges have their own pros and cons. Note: smaller wire sizes are often more economical and larger wire sizes are stronger, however the smaller ones will also reduce the distance of power being provided to your lights in the ground, and may require conduit to stay safe from dreaded landscaper cuts to your lighting connections.
In this example of installing your landscape lights with specific wire gauges as another consideration for which transformer wattage to buy, we can benchmark some calculations knowing that typically, a 300-watt transformer can power 100 feet run using 16 gauge, or 150 feet using 14 gauge, or 200 feet when using the most popular 12 gauge cables. Its always advisable to check with the lighting manufacturers territory managers and sales teams prior to purchase, to discuss any other factors and considerations to best determine the proper transformer and wire gauge to use for your specific landscape lighting design system.
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Landscape Lights Wont Come On
If none of your outdoor lights are working, heres what we can try:
- Inspect the power outlet by plugging a phone into it to see if its getting electricity
- Make sure the transformer is set to ON
- Check the circuit breakers on the transformer for a short
- Open the breaker box and look to see if the switches are between ON and OFF
- If there is an indicator light and its red that means its tripped
How To Troubleshoot A Low Voltage Transformer
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Volt 300w Led Low Voltage Transformer
Last but not least is the VOLT 300W LED Low Voltage Transformer , which is a low-profile multi-tap player in the voltage converter production industry. Thanks to its slim and firm design, this transformer is made to last. It is matchless when it comes to set up and operate processes.
Key Highlights Of The Volt 300w Led Low Voltage Transformer :
This low voltage transformer can convert 120V input to different low voltage outputs that range somewhere between 12 V and 15V.
It also comes in 3 different wattage ratings, including 100 W, 150W, and 300Watts ratings.
This showcases how efficient this converter when it comes to voltage regulation outputs and the amount of power absorbed. This magnetic transformer is made for LED lights and fittings.
Design-wise, the VOLT transformer has a relatively slim and light outlook. At the level of the Slim Line Transfer feature, the eyelets can be detached without using any implements, and they can also be substituted when needed.
The overall design construction makes it more comfortable in the installation and mounting process, as you will save time and effort setting it up. Built-in with quality material housing, it easily beat harsh outdoor weather conditions.
The toroidal core is the compact unit situated at the center of the unit. This component is usually quite effective, almost noise-free, and operates better than the EI Converters.
What We Like About The Volt 300w Led Low Voltage Transformer
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Best Pro Lighting 300w Step
If there is any other product that is built-in with stainless steel material except for the LightKiwi transformer on this list, then it must be the Best pro lighting Voltage converter.
The title itself describes this unit. It is indeed the best and the most professional low voltage transformer and for excellent reasons.
Key Highlights Of The Best Pro Lighting 300w Step-down Voltage Converter:
This heavy-duty transformer is undoubtedly designed for an everlasting service.
Now, like most of the transformers mentioned on this list, the best Pro transformer can also convert 120 V to 12 V, but what makes it stand out is its capability to convert to 13V, 14 V, and 15V as well depending on your choice and needs.
It is quite similar to the Lightkiwi transformer in this aspect as well. The unit also has the highest wattage of 300W. This allows you to connect to more lights and bulbs around the house/ a wider area that needs more lighting. It is entirely compatible with AC LEDs.
Design-wise, this is the second low voltage transformer in this review that is made of stainless steel. This high-quality material used will knock down any kind of harsh outdoor weather conditions and circumstances. The stainless steel material is also corrosion-resistant and rust-free.
Built-in with photocell, it allows automatic turn on during the dusk and turns off during the dawn like any other device.
What We Like About The Best Pro Lighting 300w Step-down Voltage Converter
Pros:
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Its Always Best To Double Check Landscape Lights And Low Voltage Transformer Calculations
Since there are so many factors to consider to create a professional lighting design project, its always best to consult your experienced lighting design specialist, as they can advise you on the best type of wire along with the proper transformer and landscape lighting models / finishes to buy for your specific applications. Since often, they have handled and managed a very similar installation using the design techniques desired in your area, to ensure your new installation stays working great years later, and worry free.
Sterno Home Paradise 50w 600 W Transformer
Key Highlights Of The Sterno Paradise Home Transformer:
As a great generating supplier for lighting, the Sterno Paradise Home transformer features the exemplary blends and adaptability.
Almost any device which demands low voltage power, this transformer offers 12 V power to ensure the ultimate consolidation safely and complete lighting.
When it comes to its design construction, the transformer can be installed outdoors for direct utility and shield from all hard weather circumstances.
The Sterno transformer comes in 5 different Watt including,50 Watt, 120 Watt, 200 Watt, 300 Watt, and 600 Watt.
Each also comes with different height, length, and width measurements accordingly. The transformer is also compatible with all low-voltage illumination schemes. You can also use it with LED lights.
The Sterno Home Paradise Transformer is made out of long-lasting, enduring, and waterproof plastic, making it convenient and suitable for all weather considerations.
You dont have to worry about rust or corrosion, either. Moreover, its modern industrial design renders it a beautiful appearance, peculiarly when you have to place it somewhere outside the house.
When it comes to the advanced technology aspect, this transforms stands from the crowd with its sun-tracking technology. This feature is uniquely incorporated in this device and no other.
However, what do we mean by sun-tracking technology?
What Do We Like About The Sterno Paradise Home Transformer?
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Assemble And Install The Lights Solar Landscape Lighting
- Remove the cover tag over the solar battery of each light, then put the top of the light back together, if necessary.
- Assemble the lights according to instructions. Usually, this requires placing the light top into the support and then attaching the light stake to the bottom of the support.
- Expose the solar lights to full sun for 12- to 14-hours before starting installation. This will allow the battery to fully charge and uncover any lights that may be defective before you install them.
- If the ground is hard or dry, lightly water the soil along the area there the lights will be installed. Allow the soil to soak for a few hours.
- Once you have the fixtures where you want them, drive their stakes into the ground. Make sure they remain plumb. The lights should install easily. Dont force the lights into the ground as this might damage the stakes.
Tip: Most solar lights install in generally the same fashion, but you should follow all manufacturers instructions for your choice of solar landscape light.
How To Install Solar Landscape Lighting
Solar landscape lighting looks great and offers you convenient installation without having to worry about wiring. Since solar landscape lights dont rely on an outlet for power, you can place them anywhere that gets good sunlight during the day.
A quality installation of solar lighting depends on advanced planning:
- Consult the manufacturer’s packaging or website for suggested lighting applications and spacing before you choose your lights.
- Plan your fixture layout carefully. While many solar lights dont require constant direct sunlight, it is best to place them where they will receive at least six to eight hours per day of bright sunlight. You may also need more lights spaced closely together to illuminate a pathway.
- Be sure to edge your walkway if you are planning for pathway lights or trim back foliage in other areas where you may be planning to add solar landscape lighting. Starting with a clean canvas will ensure nothing shades your lighting plan.
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