Low voltage lighting is energy-efficient, flexible and safe, and is highly popular for usage in lanterns, task lighting and accent lighting. If you are planning to install low voltage lighting in or around your home, you can do so easily. Below are the steps you need to follow to do so.
Available outlet
First of all, you need to check for an outlet available in the area you want to set up the lighting in. If you don’t have an outlet available, you will need to have an electrician install one first.
Planned layout
You need to have a layout beforehand so that you can work upon your plan and avoid any problems during the process. Plan where you want the lights and decide on the types and lengths of connecting wires you will need. Determine the length of wires and transformers you will need, and purchase the required materials in advance.
Selection of wire cables
You need to consider the kinds of cables you want to use. Cables run from the transformer to the light fixture in order to give them power. Low voltage electrical cables come in a number of gauges like 12, 14, 16, etc. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire. If you want higher capacities, you need to opt for thicker wires. Different transformers have different recommendations for wire gauge number to be used with their system depending on the amount of power the transformer can accept. You need to check with the manufacturer of your transformer to determine the gauge you will need to choose. If you are looking for the best transformer manufacturer in India, you can get in touch with Miracle Electronics who manufactures the finest quality transformers made of high quality materials that are as per International standards.
Selection of lights
There are several different types of lighting that you can choose from. It is very important to choose the type that suits your project the best. For example, accent fixtures are used in floodlights, spotlights, and to illuminate trees, ponds, etc. Pathway lights are used to light up pathways, your driveway, walkway, etc.
Installation
You need to plug the transformer directly into the outlet. Depending on the kind of transformers, you may also mount some of them on the walls too.
Cables run from the transformer to the fixtures in a variety of ways. There may be a single wire or multiple wires running right from the transformer to the light. You may also wire the lights in a loop with the wire returning to the transformer, which helps reduce the power dropping off at long distances and thus, keeps distant lights from dimming.
Now, set up each light fixture as per your layout. Attach the wires to the light fixtures and then attach them to the transformer’s terminal screws. Dig a 3 inch deep trench along the wire’s length and bury it in the ground. Then, plug the transformer in too. Once the entire setup has been wired, you must position and mount each light according to the manufacturer’s directions.
