Top Landscape Lighting
September 24, 2010
How to install low voltage landscape lights properly
Avoid these common landscape lighting installation mistakes
Avoid these common landscape lighting installation mistakes
Installing Low Voltage Landscape Lights
These are five common mistakes made while installing outdoor lighting. They can be easily avoided, but shouldn't be taken lightly. This is because any one of these mistakes can cause future problems.
Not Owning A Voltmeter - Installing outdoor lighting fixtures with a multi-tap system requires a voltmeter. It is important to use a voltmeter to safely monitor the amount of voltage being distributed to each lighting fixture.
Not Using A Waterproof Direct Burial Splice - Since cable wires are buried underground, implementing the correct splice is important. A waterproof splice will prevent corroding and electrical resistance.
Poor Voltage Drop Management - Poor voltage drop results in dim, uneven, overpowered, or underpowered lights. It will also shorten the lifespan of your lighting fixtures and can cause fires. Use the 100/100 rule to correctly manage your volt drop and only connect 100' of 12 gauge cable per 100 watts of bulbs.
Show Dog Spotlight
Installing Lights In The Wrong Place - Lawn maintenance will prove difficult when landscape lighting fixtures are installed throughout your grass. Fertilizer, lawn mowers, and weed whackers can all damage the landscape lighting fixtures. Install the landscape lights in beds. Also, when choosing where to put your fixtures, make sure they are hidden. Landscape Lighting looks more appealing when the source is unseen.
Using Poor Quality Fixtures - Purchase moisture sealed landscape lighting fixtures that will provide long lasting light in outdoor elements. Installing high quality fixtures will improve lighting and appearance.
