I have a 300 watt Malibu transformer that I want to run two lines of lights off of. One line runs about 80 feet and has 77 w. The other runs about the same length but with 90w. I purchased two lengths of 100' 12/2 wire. I was planning on running them independently so that I got a little voltage drop to save
light bulbs. However, I could very easily make this a continuous loop - both runs end up very close to the same spot. What would your recommend? With the two lines leaving the transformer, do I just connect both of them at the terminal screws or do I need to run to a ''T'' connector and split them from there?
You can never go wrong with a continuous loop wiring system as far as voltage drop. You do have to pay attention to the polarity of the wires so that you don't short out the system. Just note the markings on the wire and use a consistent method of installing the lights.
You might just try running two runs and see if you have any VOLTAGE DROP ISSUES. If you do, you can always complete the circuit and make the transition to a continuous loop system.
Thanks for asking the question. We appreciate any and all inquiries to Residential Landscape Lighting & Design. If we can be of further assistance, please call us at 800-239-2939.
Labels: Connectors and Split, Malibu Transformers, Voltage Drop Calculation
I understand from archived questions that the 600 Watt transformer has: capability for 300w x 2. Each has Terminal A, B and C. I also understand that Terminal C is the neutral so....Here is my question.I have (1) 600 W transformer and (1) 300 Watt transformer. The 300 watt transformer powers: (4) uplights/50W each with no problem. Distance of home run roughly 76 feet. I added another 50w to the 300 trans. and the lights dimmed somewhat. I use 12/2 cable. My connections on the back of the 300 unit are: one wire under terminal A, one under B, nothing g under CThe same applies to the 600 watt transformer. I think I am not using the transformer correctly, or am I? I purchased the 600 w transformer for 6 additional up lights, total distance is about 350 feet (I have just under an acre) Am I going about this correctly and is there a diagram you might refer me to? Thanks so much....
You might want to run another cable and split up the lights into two home runs back to the transformer. Check out our CALCULATING VOLTAGE DROP PAGE for wiring ideas.
Now for the new installation that is 350 feet, you have a problem. I hope you purchased HEAVY DUTY LANDSCAPE CABLE such as 10/2 or even 8/2 and a HIGH VOLTAGE TRANSFORMER!
This kind of installation will take some careful planning otherwise you will be disappointed with the results. I would recommend that you hook up the lights, look at them at night before you bury and wires. That way you can make adjustments as needed.
Thanks for shopping at Residential Landscape Lighting & Design. We appreciate the business and look forward to assisting you in the future. 800-239-2939.
http://www.residential-landscape-lighting-design.com
Labels: High Voltage Transformer, Low Voltage Wiring, Voltage Drop Calculation
Is there away that we can make the low voltage lighting brighter in our yard?
There are many ways to make your low voltage lighting system brighter. You first have to understand why the lights are dim. This can be due to several issues. One, is the LANDSCAPE CABLE size could be inadequate or too small to handle total wattage of the lights. Secondly, the distance from the TRANSFORMERS to the lights may be too far causing a voltage drop.
Visit our DESIGNING LOW VOLTAGE LIGHTING PAGE or CALCULATING VOLTAGE DROP for more information. These informational pages will help you understand the problem and find a solution.
Thank you for the question and shopping at Residential Landscape Lighting & Design. Call us toll free at 800-239-2939 if we can help.
http://www.residential-landscape-lighting-design.com
Labels: Landscape Lighting Equipment, Low Voltage Lighting, Voltage Drop Calculation
I have 150' of low voltage lighting with (16) 5-watt fixtures attached. There is a 120 watt power pack, which should be more than adequate to power them. However, lights that are nearest to power pack are bright, while the farther you get away from power pack, the dimmer the lights get. WHY?
The variation in light output is due to VOLTAGE DROP ISSUES. Split the lights into two separate wires going back to the transformer and you should be fine. Check out the above link for information on low voltage wiring methods.
Thanks for contacting Residential Landscape Lighting & Design for your OUTDOOR LANDSCAPE LIGHTING needs. We look forward to serving you. Give us a call toll free at 800-239-2939 if we can be of service.
http://www.residential-landscape-lighting-design.com
Labels: Low Voltage Lighting, Outdoor Landscape Lighting, Voltage Drop Calculation
