![]() ![]() The transformer changes the electrical power being used in the system from 120 volts AC to 12 volts DC. Anytime you have a plug with a big box on it, it is because there is a transformer in there to change the power supply to something the device you are using can work with safely. Transformers are actually more common than you might think. So how do you get DC current to your landscape lighting that is connected to AC power fed into your home? You have to use a transformer. This is because LEDs work better with DC current. Now, with LEDs being the common lightbulbs, most landscape lighting installs utilize 12 volt DC power. DC power is usually thought of as battery power. Most of us think of AC power as the type that comes out of the wall. Interestingly, older landscape lighting systems may have been 12 volts of AC power. You don’t need to take as many precautions with low-voltage lighting since it is safer. Low-voltage lighting is the most common type used in modern landscape lighting because it is easier to work with and install. Low-voltage is generally 12 volts, the same as the battery in most smoke detectors. Line voltage is the same as if you plug something into the wall, so it is 120 volts in the United States. Landscape lighting comes in two forms, line voltage and low-voltage. They create less glare and reduce light pollution. 3000k or lower LEDs have other benefits as well. Using an LED with a 3000k rating will likely do the trick because they seem to attract a lot less bugs. You might not need to search for too special of a bulb though. Fortunately, some research has been done on this problem and you can now buy LEDs specifically for keeping bugs away and the newest research suggests that amber tint is actually better than yellow. Some experts recommend a lights with a yellowish hue, but this can be a problem since most of those yellowish lights are compact fluorescent and newer lights are generally always LED. Bugs do seem to be attracted to light, so sometimes placing the lighting so it illuminates an area from the edges helps keep the bugs out of your face. Of course you can also add temporary lighting for special occasions like weddings and parties, if you happen to be using your yard for these events.Īlong these lines, some people ask about how to place outdoor lighting to help keep bugs away. Placing the right lights in any of these areas will enhance your landscaping at night. Here are just a few places that could use some extra lighting. Sometimes we are asked where to install landscape lighting. Lighting can help set the mood, whether that is relaxing or a party with friends. ![]() Low-voltage lighting on trees or planting beds can give your yard extra interest at night when there ordinarily is not a lot to see. String lights over a patio are becoming more and more common. Good landscape lighting is also a great way to create an inviting feeling in your yard. And if you have a retaining wall or other area that drops off, it will help prevent falls if there is good lighting to show people not to venture too close to the edge. You might want some lighting near doors, to help you be able to see to unlock them. You might need pathway lighting to help you find your way safely around your yard. The right lighting is an important safety feature when you are out in your yard at night. We’ll get to that in a minute, but there is another important reason to include lighting in your landscape design. Safety LightingĬhoosing landscape lighting is often about providing a specific look to your yard. Many experts say that lighting that creates a lot of glare can actually reduce security, so make sure you choose lighting wisely. Focused lighting and motion sensors can help provide the light in the right places at the right times. There is such a thing as bad lighting and good lighting. That could include a garden shed or the side of your house. There are many options available these days, including battery and solar power lights that can be placed in areas you wouldn’t normally find lighting. As part of your landscaping, adding some good lighting can help accomplish goals related to security. A major study done by the New York Police Department showed a 36% decrease in expected crimes (including violent and property crimes) just by adding security lighting. The security of your home and your loved ones is important. Outdoor lighting is important to your landscaping project in several ways.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |