how to layout and install low voltage landscape lighting

Determining Proper Layout and Installation.

OK!... this page explains how to put it all together.

There are no special tools required for installing your low voltage landscape lights. All you will need are wire cutters, a screwdriver, and small shovel. First, determine where your transformer will be located. This is usually within its cord reach of a 120 volt grounded approved outdoor outlet. Transformers are usually mounted on the wall near an outside outlet, but can be mounted indoors if allowed per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding installation requirements.

Next, you would place the designated fixtures in the marker locations you previously identified as fixture locations. Then, you want to lay the cable out starting at either the beginning or end of your fixture run, passing closely by each fixture.

Each individual fixture will have an easy connector at the end of a short cable whip that is attached directly to the fixture. This connector pierces the cable when it is snapped together over the cable and will connect each fixture to its power source. Repeat this connection to the cable (i.e., the cable run you laid next to each fixture) with all remaining fixtures. You now want to run one length of cable directly from the transformer to the center of the cable run that is now connecting all of your fixtures. This length should intersect your fixture cable run in a T fashion. There are other techniques to use when connecting your low voltage lights in regard to cable layout, but I think this works the best. What you are trying to accomplish by using the T method, is even distribution of the wattage load back to the transformer. Therefore, on either side of the location where the cable intersects, you should have close to an even amount of fixtures. ( Example: You have 10 total fixtures. Intersect the run so there are 5 fixtures to the left and 5 fixtures to the right of the T splice.) At the point where the cable intersects, you will need a T connector which can be purchased at your home improvement or hardware store where you purchased your low voltage landscape lights. (If you have trouble finding a T splice connector do a google search for, low voltage cable T splice, and you will find several sources where they can be purchased.) You also may choose to use weatherproof wire nuts with electrical tape at this splice. (this method will also work fine.)

Don’t Bury the cable yet . . . . . .

The low voltage cable requires only minimal burial of approximately four to six inches. Therefore, low voltage cable can be covered by your landscape’s decorative stones, mulch, or wood chips with only a couple on inches of digging. If you are running the cable across a yard or some other circumstance that requires digging, always contact a “dig safe” service in your area. Most utilities should be buried well beneath the 4” – 6” required, but it is always best to play it safe! Also, follow all manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the transformer and fixture installation procedures.

Now you can make the connection at the transformer. You will be connecting the low voltage cable end opposite the T connector (this was the cable you ran from the transformer that intersected your fixture cable run and formed the T connection). Once you have made the connection, plug the transformer in and turn it on. At this point, check all of your fixtures to be sure they are working. If a fixture isn’t working, check to be sure the bulb is properly installed and next, that the connection is made properly. Now, if you can live with the low voltage cable uncovered for one night, set the timer and wait for the light show at dark.

At dark, go outside and admire your work! Make any necessary adjustments to your lighting scheme and check to see if the effects you expected are really what you are viewing. If you do have to move or change a fixture, remember the cable is self-sealing so you just open and remove the connector and place the fixture in the new location. Once you are satisfied with the lighting effects, bury the cable.

That’s it! You did it! You now have the self-satisfaction of a job well done and a little more money in your pocket. Your home looks like it was done by one of the “experts” and no one knows any different.

If you have any questions, you can contact me and I will try to help you out.