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Few things about Low Voltage Lighting

To those who may not be familiar, low voltage lighting system consists of a plug-in transformer, low voltage cable and low voltage light fixtures. The transformer plugs into a grounded outdoor power receptacle and reduces the standard 110 volt current to a low voltage of 12 volts or 24 volts. The transformer used in a low voltage lighting system may be either electronic or magnetic.

It has to be borne in mind that the wattage rating of the transformer should always be equal to, if not greater than, the total wattage of the lighting system. Further, please know that transformers usually require a minimum wattage to power before they work. For example, a 60-watt electronic transformer will require at least 10 watts of lighting load and if there is only 5 watts of lighting load connected, the lighting system will not work.

The low voltage cable attached to the transformer distributes power to the light fixtures. It is possible to provide a dimmer to a low voltage lighting system regardless whether it is powered by an electronic or a magnetic transformer. When using a dimmer with a low voltage lighting system the dimmer should always be installed so that it is controlling the line voltage side of the transformer. You must select the dimmer that is compatible to an electronic transformer or a magnetic transformer.

Low voltage lighting systems require thicker wires (lower gauge) since more electricity is being conducted by those wires. There is however no need to bury the low voltage cable. The low voltage cable is weatherproof and shock-free. However, for protecting the cable and better aesthetics, you can plan do concealed cabling.

Installing a low voltage lighting system is quite simple and calls for no special skills. One has to however exercise caution when installing a low voltage lighting system. All the electrical connections must be perfect and secure. Or else, the wires may arc and cause a lot of heat and the entire lighting system may fail and can even lead to a fire hazard.

Low voltage lights are obviously energy-efficient and economical to operate. The use of low voltage lighting systems has steadily grown in popularity over the years. Low voltage halogen and low voltage xenon lighting systems are ubiquitously found in many restaurants, hotels, bars, retail outlets, art galleries, and even homes. The other applications for low voltage lighting are - walkway entrances, staircases, driveways, landscape accentuation, decorating of patios, decks and flowerbeds.

The brightness level of the lighting is determined by the bulb wattage that is selected. Bulb wattages range from 4 watts, up to 50 watts (halogen). Of course, one can use a variety of bulb wattages - allowing for flexibility in the lighting system – except that the total watts in the system do not exceed the power pack's output rating. You may add lights as desired, keeping total bulb wattage at or below the power pack's maximum output rating.

There are varieties of low voltage lighting systems - cabinet lighting, cove lighting, landscape lighting, picture lights, regular track lighting, flexible track lighting, cable lighting, and under cabinet lighting. You will save a lot of money on your electricity bills by installing low voltage lights. Less voltage also means more energy efficiency.