#Volt landscape lighting pdf
#Volt landscape lighting install
#Volt landscape lighting skin
#Volt landscape lighting code

MR-16: Bigger bulb with larger shroud different beam width-narrow for greater illumination at distance-wide for short, broad illumination close-up.MR-11: Used for fixtures with built-in reflectors.

If bulbs are handled accidentally, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove oil.

#Volt landscape lighting skin

Oil from the skin causes overheating and rapid blowout. When handling halogen bulbs, don’t touch them with your bare fingers. They last longer and are well worth any difference in price.

Halogen. These bulbs are much hotter and brighter than incandescent bulbs, and are slower to cool.

They also have a shorter life span (600 to 1000 hours) than a halogen bulb. They are not as hot as halogen bulbs, cool down quickly, and are cheaper to replace.

Incandescent. These bulbs come in three types: Bayonet base, Wedge base, and Par-36 (an extra large bulb).

BULBSīulbs are available in three basic classes. When selecting a transformer, allocate 20% of the stated wattage output for future additions. If you don’t buy enough wattage now, you can’t add to the system later, or you’ll have to buy another transformer. You need to select your transformer with light additions in mind. Allows you to “automatically fix” your system.

Photocell with Timer: The most versatile type.

Better models have replaceable timers that are not expensive. The cheaper transformers have integrated timers that cannot be replaced.

Photocell: Automatically turns lights on at dusk turns them off at daybreak.

Transformers vary widely, depending on size. It keeps your costs down and lasts considerably longer than plastic, as the metal parts protect most of the plastic parts from the sun.

Half metal/half plastic is a good compromise.

It ‘s long-lasting and has a finish that effectively hides spots.

Plastic is the cheapest fixture, but biodegrades rather quickly in the sun and must be assembled.

FIXTURESįixtures come in a wide variety of styles. The 10 gauge wire is the more expensive, but is the most effective for extremely long runs. The 12 gauge wire is best for most residential low-voltage runs. Use 16 or 14 gauge wire for short runs and light loads only. Remember, the larger the number, the smaller the cable. It comes in gauges (sizes) 16, 14, 12 and 10. Wiring should be multi-strand which is cooler and safer to use. You must also make a choice between incandescent and halogen bulbs. The type of lights desired can also play a role in this question, because not all light styles are available in sets.ĭo you buy pre-packaged kits or build the system from individual components? While choosing the correct wiring is relatively simple, the wide range of fixtures and transformers available can cause some anxiety. Sets can be less expensive, but have limited expandability. The next step is to determine how many lights you want and whether or not to start with a set or buy all the components individually.

Practicality: Which lights are best for you given the budget and durability required?.

Durability: How long do you want it to last?.

( top) CHOOSING THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT.Ĭonsider these things when choosing lighting:

#Volt landscape lighting install

It is cheaper to install and will handle more fixtures without significant voltage drop.

#Volt landscape lighting code

The finished product is checked by an inspector for code compliance. Though you might pay a little more for the system, since it needs special transformers, low-voltage lights and a few more wire leads, you can save on expenses by “doing it yourself”. It is safer! Low voltage presents no severe shock risk-and requires smaller trenches and less power. Because this outdoor system is only 12 volts, home owners can install it themselves. The 12 volt lighting system is better known as low-voltage lighting. There are two basic landscape lighting systems for residential use:

Flood Lighting: Use to highlight trees, rocks, or buildings.ĬHOOSING THE BEST TYPE OF LANDSCAPE LIGHTING.

Well Lighting: Use in lawns or rock areas.

Highlighting: Use to illuminate trees, plants, or statues.

Back Lighting: Use against walls, trellises, or for shadowing trees.

Don’t outline your walks and driveways like airport landing strips (the runway effect).

Path Lighting: Use random and alternate spacing.

Landscape lighting is most often used for: There are 4 primary reasons for using landscape lighting: Handy installation and maintenance tips are also listed to help with your project. What is the purpose of landscape lighting? What kind of lighting is best for you? How do you choose fixtures, bulbs, wiring and transformers? The following paragraphs will answer these questions and more.

Choosing the Best Type of Landscape Lighting.

#Volt landscape lighting pdf

Choosing and using the right equipment Print the PDF Here