Low vs Line Voltage Landscape Lighting
Posted by Gavin Martin on Mon, Sep 21, 2009
DESIGN CENTER - LANDSCAPE LIGHTING
LOW (12v) VS. LINE (120v)
understanding the difference
The homeowner should make an informed decision when purchasing residential outdoor lighting. Low voltage systems are generally more flexible in residential settings; line voltage systems are better suited to permanent commercial and institutional applications.
| 12v |
120v |
|
Flexibility when installing or relocating; cable can be repositioned
|
Wire must be buried 18 inches and placed in a protective conduit; easy to install if area is pre-wired |
|
Designed for wet locations and operates safely when exposed to moisture |
All fixtures and connectors must be absolutely waterproof (shock hazard potential when wet) |
|
Lamps are small allowing fixtures to be smaller and blend with the landscape |
Lamps and fixtures are larger and less fixtures are required for a complete lighting plan |
| Lamps available in low watt type and many beam spreads; precise lighting effects can be achieved with low energy |
Higher watt lamps and one or two beam spreads produce high light levels and can be wired into home's electrical supply |
| Can be plugged into existing outdoor receptacles; no need for an electrical contractor in most cases |
Must always be installed by a licensed electrical contractor; local permits may be required |
|
Transformer to convert electrical current from 120v to 12v required; voltage drop (dim lights) can occur if improperly installed and inadequately sized cable used |
No transformer required; voltage drop not as critical
|
Hinkley Lighting is our featured brand of landscape lighting and Lighting Catalog has all of your Hinkley Lighting needs. LightingCatalog.com is an online leader of Hinkley Outdoor Lighting, Hinkley Path Lighting and Hinkley Landscape Lighting. We are a member of the eImprovement.com Network of Online Stores. Free Ground Shipping on all orders over $99. Large selection, low prices and excellent customer service. The Home Lighting and Outdoor Lighting leader. Why shop elsewhere?
