The low voltage lighting systems were invented in 1950s by an electrical contractor, William (Bill) Locklin. He invented the lighting system with a supply voltage of 12V, which is commonly known as low voltage lighting. The low voltage lighting system is an economical and convenient option for decorating the yard. A low voltage lighting system consists of a plug-in transformer, which converts the mains voltage into 12V. The light fixtures are connected to the transformer using a cable. The low voltage lighting systems are used for many purposes like decorating the walkway entrances, driveways, patios, decks and flowerbeds. The brightness of the light can be varied using the lights of different wattage. The low voltage lighting bulbs are available in varying wattage, from 4W to 50W. You can even mix and match the brightness of the lighting by using bulbs of different wattages.
Installing Low Voltage Lighting Systems - Layout
The first step when installing low voltage lighting systems, is to decide the actual layout of the lighting. The best way is to take a walk in the lawn or the yard where you want to set up the low voltage lighting. There are many ways you can set up the lighting so as to create different moods. Also, ensure that the lighting must not be obstructed or must not be an annoying source of glare. The beauty of low lighting is seen during the night, so discover different ways of installation and maintain subtlety.
Installing Low Voltage Lighting Systems - Light Fixtures
Choosing the style and type of lighting fixtures is the next step to install low lighting systems. The type of the light fixtures you choose, will decide the exact number of fixtures that are required for implementing your plans. There are many different ways in which low voltage lighting is installed. One of the layouts, is to wire all the fixtures in a line and connect one end of this wire to the transformer. This is one of the most easiest ways to install the low voltage lighting and requires less efforts in comparison to the other methods. The second type of arranging the fixtures is to form a loop of the fixtures and connect transformers on both side of the loop. The polarity of both the transformers should match with each other. Another type is like a star in which the transformer is at the middle of the star. The fixtures are run sequentially in a straight line. Many straight lines of the fixtures are constructed and are connected to the transformer. This type of arrangement is called split load.
Installing Low Voltage Lighting Systems - Transformers
Once the arrangement is decided, the type of transformer that will suit the arrangement should be chosen. The VA rating of the transformer should be checked when you buy the transformer, which may vary from 60 W to 900W. To calculate the voltage rating requirement of your lighting, simply add the voltage ratings of all the light fixtures and multiply this sum by 1.2.
Installing Low Voltage Lighting Systems - Cables
The low voltage cables must not be buried in the ground as they may get damaged due to the lawn equipment such as lawnmowers. The wire must always be encased in a PVC pipe to avoid the accidental damage to the low voltage cables. The low voltage fixtures and transformers should then connected to the each other according to the layout decided.
The implementation may take several hours and the time required is dependent upon how big the low voltage lighting layout is. The low voltage installation can be done by a beginner and is quite easy. The low voltage designs are energy efficient and do not consume more power. Lastly, they are very safe and can be used even during the rains. Now you can decorate your lawn or outdoor within hours for a party or just to give your lawn or yard a romantic touch.
