Add more lights to my low voltage lighting system using the same transformer.

I have a 300 Watt channel on my low voltage landscape transformer. Currently it has a single 100'' 16 gauge with 150 watts of lights on it. Can I start at the transformer with a 2nd line on the same channel and run the 2nd line 60'' and put 60 watts on it - OR, am I breaking a rule? Otherwise, would a T-connector off the main 100'' line allow me to split the trunk and accomplish my 150''?I realize that I can shift down to a thicker gauge to get more run length - but an trying not to do that.thanks very much.howard@mcq.com

First of all your existing 16-gauge DIRECT BURIAL CABLE is borderline to carry that kind of load over that distance to start thinking about tapping into the line. 150/12 = 12.50 amps. 16-gauge wire is rated for 10 amps maximum. You should consider changing the wire to 12/2 CABLE which is rated for 20 amps. This will reduce the effects of voltage drop and give you more uniform lighting.

I like the idea of installing some new home run wiring for the lights you want to add. You can certainly do that as long as you don''t exceed the capacity of the transformer.

You might want to consider getting a PRE-PACKAGED LOW VOLTAGE LIGHTING KIT that contains everything you need to upgrade your lighting.

Labels: Direct Burial Cable, Low Voltage Landscape Transformer, Pre-packaged Low Voltage Lighting Kit

posted by xinger @ 11:50 AM