Installing Landscape Lighting
by Terry Price
 

The tools you will need when it comes to installing your own landscape lighting are an edger, screw driver, shovel, trowel, and some wire cutters. Remember, one of the most important parts of this fun project is to ensure that you lay out your project well beforehand. Figure out which parts of your landscape you want to highlight. This could be your driveway, patio, deck, shrubs, the side of your house, doorway or pond. Floodlights can be used to highlight your favorite trees, and tier lighting, which looks like mini lampposts can be used to light various areas of the landscape. Locate an outdoor electrical outlet and measure the distance required to run wiring from your electrical source to each area you would like to install a light from the first to the last one. Remember to include an extra foot or so for each light. Make drawings and write down the measurements. No matter what type of light you choose always refer to your layout plan and consult online merchants for advice. Remember also to shop online to get the best price comparisons, styles, etc. You will be glad you did.

After the installation is done, you will want to purchase a power pack (transformer) and cable. This will reduce the 120-volts down to the safe 12-volts you will require. Add up the total wattage requirement and get a transformer that meets or exceeds that total. As an example, if your are installing lights with a total of 200 watts, then get a 220-watt transformer. When purchasing your cable, make sure that it is weather-resistant and is recommended for use with outdoor lighting. Using the proper gauge wire that will meet the output of your transformer will ensure your safety, and wattage requirements are met as well.

When installing, you don't need an electrician to install low-voltage landscaping and you can do it in a day. Check your local building codes before starting. Assemble each light according to the manufacturer's directions. Determine where you will mount the transformer and also read its direction carefully and mount the transformer off the ground close to an outlet. Use your wire cutters to prepare the cable so it makes proper contact with the connectors on the transformer. After the cable is connected, you can now mount the transformer but don't plug it in yet. Lay the cable on the ground first and make sure you have the adequate length required. Simply digging a trench about 2 or 3 inches deep is sufficient. That's it. It really isn't that complicated and will make a great weekend project for the do-it-yourselfer.


About the author:

Terry Price is a regular author to- http://www.ceiling-fans-interiors.com/landscape-lighting.html where you can learn more about exciting landscaping light projects.