What to Look for when Buying a Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting System

A low voltage outdoor lighting system is an easy way for the average do-it-yourselfer to add a professional touch to his or her outdoor space. Low voltage lighting is relatively inexpensive and can change the look of your outdoor space dramatically. There is no need to run deep trenches through your yards because the wires that power the low voltage system can be hidden or buried in a shallow trench. Low voltage outdoor lighting systems are easy to find. Before you make your final selection, consider these factors.    

Feature Rich Transformer

The transformer that runs power to your lighting system should be feature rich. There are three sought after features of low voltage lighting transformers. First, you want a transformer that can run at increased voltage in the event that you want to run your lights for an extended period of time. Next, you want a transformer that can be set on a timer. Maybe you only want your lights to run for three hours at night. A feature rich transformer will give you this option. Last, your transformer should allow you to use a solar option. This option will allow for your lights to automatically turn on at dusk and automatically turn off at dawn.

Large Selection of Light Fixtures

The low voltage outdoor lighting system that you purchase should offer a number of different light fixtures. Because you will be designing an outdoor space, you may need path lights, accent lights, and even spot lights. The system that you choose should have a number of different light fixtures so that you can design your outdoor space to your liking. Maybe you want to make your water fountain a focal point. If your lighting system is only equipped with path lights you may run into a problem.

Fixtures that can be Easily Cleaned

All low voltage outdoor lighting systems are waterproof. Therefore, you won’t have any problem using soapy water to keep the fixtures clean. However, you want to make sure that the system you select is easy to clean. You don’t want to struggle gaining access to parts of the light when attempting to clean them. Before you make your purchase, test the lights out to make sure that you can wipe them off with ease.

Adequate Cable Length

It is best to purchase a low voltage lighting system that has longer cable lengths. At the time of purchase you may not consider the cable lengths because of your design plans. However, over time you may decide to make some changes to the lighting design. If the cables on the lighting system are too.

Perfect Light Bulb

Before you choose your low voltage lighting system, you should take a close look at the light bulb. Some of the lights will give a pure white glow, others will glow a golden yellow, and others will give off a faint blue glow. If you have other lighting components in your yard, you should attempt to keep the colors consistent.

That’s it! You now know what to look for when purchasing a low voltage outdoor lighting system.