Jun 17 2010
Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting
Most lighting systems that are indoors are based on 120 volts and must be installed by an electrical contractor. On the other hand, there are low voltage outdoor lighting installations that run on 12 volts of power and can be installed by homeowners. These lighting systems are considered safer than their high-powered counterparts are and don’t use as much electricity which helps with the utility bill.
Before deciding to install a low voltage lighting system, the homeowner should decide what purpose the lights are going to serve. Low voltage lights do not provide the same illumination as 120-volt light systems and are not the ideal choice for areas that need security lighting. On the other hand, low voltage lights are the perfect choice for adding creative light to garden areas, trees and other areas that simply need highlights.
Installing low voltage lighting systems is not difficult and can be done by most homeowners without having to hire a professional contractor. 12-volt systems use a transformer to lessen then power from the typical electrical outlet to the 12-volt light system. The transformer used with the system should match the load that the system is going to pull. Homeowners who purchase a low-voltage kit shouldn’t have to worry about this since the kits contain all of the necessary parts that work together.
Silver Mesh Dragonfly Outdoor Garden Lights from TCH.net
Low voltage lighting systems use 12-volt bulbs that are much softer and less harsh than 120-volt bulbs. This light is not as intrusive on the landscape or the neighboring homes. Using this type of lighting allows for more artistic freedom in creating lighting effects. The lights can be grouped together to create small masses of light focusing on a particular aspect of the yard or they can be spaced further apart for a less intensive effect.
Homeowners will also notice a difference in their power bill when they use a low voltage system. Because it is not pulling the same amount of power as house electricity the resulting power bill will be less than if they installed 120-volt lighting systems. In addition to the power bill savings there is an overall savings of natural resources. Even though these lights systems still use natural resources, they use less than higher voltage systems do and that makes them a preferred choice for saving the Earth’s natural energy sources.
Low voltage lighting systems for the garden area are simply the right choice to make for money and natural resource savings. They are easier to install than line voltage systems and they provide an artistic light that can be used to create many different landscape designs. In fact, with the exception of a security light, gardeners should consider low voltage lights for all their landscape lighting needs.
-Sharon Chapman
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