Voltage Transformers
If you are installing your own landscape lighting system and you do not intend to hire an electrical contractor, then you should only use low voltage products. This is for your own safety. In order to be able to tie these lights into the electrical system from the 120 volt AC power supply of the average home, you will need a low voltage transformer. Many landscape lighting package sets come equipped with these included, but if you are creating your own design, you will need to purchase the components separately, including the outdoor lighting transformer. There will be several things you need to know before making your final purchase in order to ensure that you have the correct product for the job, and you will install it properly.
The purpose of a voltage transformer is to either raise or lower the voltage available for use. Most transformers encountered by lay people for their use are designed to lower the high current of 120 volts coming from electrical outlets down to 12 or 24 volts for use in low voltage landscape lighting products. These are called step down transformers, and they are commonly packaged with pre-created low-voltage lighting kits. It is important to properly install these, but their wiring is easy enough for anyone to do. You should inform yourself about your specific project voltage and lighting needs so that you can reap the two fold benefit of the transformers.
The primary benefit of a voltage transformer is that it will render the project safer for installation by anyone. Even a weekend do-it-yourself electrician, can with the right instruction and advice, install a landscape lighting system if it does not require high voltage. High voltage systems, as are commonly seen in commercial applications, outdoor sporting field and arena lights, and some outdoor flood lights should only be handled by an expert electrician. Professionals are well versed in methods of dealing safely with high voltage electrical currents. If your project requires home security lights, call a professional for your own safety and to prevent mishaps that can too easily occur when dealing with electricity.
The other advantage voltage transformers have is that they can help to save on energy costs. Landscape lighting is often on throughout the night, and unless the current is regulated, high voltage will equal high electric bills. By lower the voltage to the lights, the brightness might be affected slightly, but the cost savings will override it. You will also save the costs of having to hire a contractor to install your landscape lighting. With a voltage transformer, you can put the lighting system in yourself, since the lower voltage lights are safer to work with.
Installation of most voltage transformers is simple. While landscape lighting information can vary by brand, most of them involve simply connecting the wires. There are some safety considerations to take when you are installing these. You should always have one of the secondary terminals and the metal bases grounded. Never touch the other bare wires, terminals or leads since these could result in a shock. You should also not have the secondary terminal short circuited. This could cause the unit to malfunction very quickly by overheating.
If you are still in doubt about how to install your Focus low voltage transformer or any other component of your landscape lighting, it will be best to consult with an expert for your own safety and your project's ultimate success.
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