Low Voltage Landscape Lighting | Lake Mary, FL

There are a lot of things to consider when planning a landscape lighting scheme. It’s why working with a professional landscape lighting contractor can help you ensure that you make all the right choices. For example, many Lake Mary homeowners have opted for low voltage lighting for their landscape lighting designs. This is a good way to go since low voltage lighting systems are easier to install, generally safer and tend to be less expensive to maintain because they don’t consume as much energy.

The following are some of the things that you should know about the different low voltage transformers that are available.

Low Voltage Transformers

A low voltage transformer will convert the standard home line voltage, which is typically 120 volts, into a lower voltage, generally either 12 or 24 volts. A low voltage transformer is usually mounted to a wall, but there are ground transformers available as well as low voltage transformers that can be hidden in rock shaped enclosures.

Single-Tap or Multi-Tap Transformers

When choosing a low voltage transformer, you’ll need to pick between single-tap and multi-tap versions. A single-tap transformer makes use of outlet taps that are all of the same voltage, either 12 volts or 24 volts. Multi-tap transformers include multiple voltage outlet taps that run anywhere between 12 volts to 24 volts. If you have fixtures that are located quite a ways away from the transformer and the line’s total load is somewhat high, then the multi-tap transformer is the best option.

Magnetic or Electronic Transformers

In addition to choosing between single-tap and multi-tap, you’ll also need to choose between magnetic and electronic. Magnetic transformers use primary and secondary coils that are situated within a metal encasement. Line voltage current is carried through the primary coil and into the secondary coil. It’s the secondary coil that produces the low voltage output. You can choose between two types of magnetic transformers — toroidal and stack laminated. Although both of somewhat noisy, they will both last upwards of two decades and can operate at a high temperature.

Electronic transformers are a bit more affordable than magnetic transformers. However, they don’t generally last as long. Most will only last for five to six years. They don’t do as well in high temperatures either — and exposure to high temperatures can further reduce their lifespan. However, they are much smaller and lightweight, which means that they can be integrated with your appliances directly.

Low Voltage For Your Home

Low voltage lighting is an excellent option for the typical residential property. For outdoor lighting applications, magnetic transformers are the best option. Whether you need a single-tap or a multi-tap transformer depends on the size of your property and your specific lighting needs.

For more advice concerning your landscape lighting design, be sure to contact us at Snyder’s Landscapes in Central Florida today.