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Safe, Economical Low-Voltage Lighting

If you are thinking of lighting up your landscaping, the walkway to the front door, or the accent area of the deck for safety reasons, installing low-voltage outdoor lighting is one of the most economical ways to go. It doesn't take much to do; you basically just need a screwdriver and an hour or so.

This type of lighting uses 12 volts of electricity, rather than 120 volts, from a household current. Low-voltage landscape lighting kits can be found in most hardware and building supply stores and are very affordable.

A low-voltage lighting system kit will contain a transformer to supply the electricity, plugging into a standard outlet.

  • The transformer reduces the 120 volts of household electricity into a safe 12 volts. These also have an automatic timer that allows lights to go on and off at set times.
  • The halogen lamp itself is available in many varieties of brightness, which ranges from 4 watts to 50 watts.
  • The insulated, standard copper wired cable transmits the electricity. The gauge of wiring is determined by the amount of watts you will require to operate your system.
  • Remember too, that low-voltage lighting is eco-friendly because the bulbs require so little electricity and you won't have to worry about power costs.

Always test light your fixtures before you install them. Make sure your lighting isn't too bright; light should be easy on the eyes, making low-voltage a perfect choice. Choose to have more than a few lights for security and safety reasons. At the same time, try to maintain a nice ambience. This type of lighting is very low maintenance and is weather resistant, lasting for years.

Although simple and easy to install and maintain, there is a downside to the kits; that is, it can be difficult to hide the cords. Run the cording under railings, in posts, or in hidden conduits. The kits are great, but that's not to say there are not higher grades of low-voltage systems and these should be installed by a professional; the quality of product will be satisfying and stand to the test of time.

For whatever outdoor lighting makeover you may be considering for the darker evenings to come, be sure to check out low-voltage lighting for safety, security, and affordability reasons, as well as good design and style.

Low-Voltage / Deck Lighting / Entry way Lighting / Landscape Lighting

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