Minimize Voltage Drop in Low Voltage Lighting

One sure fire way to add value to your home is to enhance the curb appeal of your property. While there are several ways the average homeowner can improve the overall beauty of their property, a cost effective and simple way is to install outside low voltage lighting. This project provides several enhancements by putting into action one well thought out plan.

In addition to the added dramatic effect that will distinguish your home from others without outdoor lighting, low voltage lighting can light paths, steps and walkways which will help your visitors safely navigate these obstacles at night. In today's litigious society, anything you do to prevent an accident is worth the effort and money. This type landscape lighting also provides security for your property which will cause intruders to pass when it comes to thoughts of entering your home.

Many homeowners choose to install their outdoor low voltage lighting system themselves without the aid of a qualified electrician.  This is definitely a doable DIY project for the homeowner as these systems are safe and easily installed.  As long as there is access to a 110 volt receptacle near the area, you are good to go with the installation.  However, some installations done by inexperienced homeowners can operate improperly due to voltage drop.  The further away a fixture is from the transformer, the lower the voltage.  This voltage drop can cause lights furthest from the transformer to appear dimmer than others.  In order to minimize this voltage drop and ensure your achiever the look you desire, consider the following when installing your system.

Determine the total wattage of all lamps powered by a single transformer, than install a transformer with a higher wattage output than the total wattage of all lamps.
Use multiple transformers if you are unable to provide a single transformer with sufficient wattage output.
Use heavier gauge cable.  The lower the number on the wire, the higher the gauge.  For example, 8 gauge cable is heavier than 10 gauge cable.
Install lower wattage bulbs in some fixtures.  You may actually want different levels of brightness to enhance the look.  The key is to control the effect yourself.
Consider shorter cable lengths.  However, this may cause you to alter your plan and prevent you from achieving the overall goal of your plan.

When planning your low voltage lighting system, be sure the 110 volt receptacle you utilize is a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet.  Also, the addition of a weatherproof cover will help keep out any moisture.  A good plan and some basic understanding of low voltage lighting and wattage should allow you to install a landscape lighting system that will enhance the beauty of your property and provide enjoyment for many years to come.