5 Things to Know Before You Buy Landscape Lighting
Installing low voltage landscape lighting is a fairly easy DIY job. Here are five things to consider before you get started.
1) Have the Right Items:
You’ll need three things before you can start: a Transformer, Cable, and the Lights.
The transformer is the heart of the system. To determine what size you’ll need, just follow this simple formula:
- Add together the wattage of your individual lights
- Multiply that total by 1.5
- The total is the transformer size, in watts, that you’ll need.
You can remove the guesswork by choosing a complete landscape lighting kit that gives you everything you need.
2) Find Your Power Source
You can plug most low-voltage transformers into a GIF grounded outdoor outlet just like you would any lamp. Save on cable by finding an outlet closest to your lighting needs.
3) Pick Your Location – No Digging Needed
We recommend simply running cables along the ground and tucking them behind plantings or covering them lightly with dirt or mulch. Most light fixtures include stakes so you can simply insert them in the ground.
4) Go LED
These lights use less energy, allowing you to run your system on a smaller, less costly transformer…and they last far longer than other bulb types, with virtually zero maintenance.
5) Less Is More
A little light can go a long way outdoors. Create layers by using a combination of path lights, up lights and flood lights.
That’s it – now go start planning!
Questions?
Shop our entire line of landscape lighting and accessories for everything you’ll need. For in-depth help, call us at 1-800-782-1967 or visit a Lamps Plus store near you. One of our American Lighting Association trained associates will be happy to assist with all your landscape lighting needs.
More Landscape Lighting Ideas and Advice
Designing a Landscape Lighting System
Landscape Lighting – Tips for Getting Started