Getting down to the nitty-gritty of the components that make up your landscape lighting design, you will likely find a lot of information about LED landscape lighting, lighting technology and commercial grade wiring. While all these elements are important to consider when thinking about an exterior lighting project, the landscape lighting transformer is often ignored even though it is the workhorse of the entire system. In this blog we are going to cover the reasons why using the right transformer is important and the type of landscape lighting transformers we use here at Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Atlanta.
The foundation for all landscape lighting installations begin with the transformer, much like the heart does in the human body. The transformer powers the circulatory system and brain, per say, of the system; in the anatomy of a landscape lighting system these encompass the wiring, fixtures, and the timer.
The hallmark of a professionally installed transformer is that it will mount level, on the exterior of your home at the location of a 120v outlet. This not only looks tidy but also helps to maintain a dry environment inside the transformer. At Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Atlanta, the transformers we use are crafted from strong, high-quality stainless steel. This means you will have no worries about fading or rusting, even under harsh weather conditions. Our stainless-steel professional transformers may cost a little more than the cheap ones you see in big box stores, but their longevity, safety, expandability options, and convenience make them more than worth it.
Why Is Using A Professional-Grade Landscape Lighting Transformer Beneficial?
Our transformers have multiple taps from 12V up to 15V or more, so each of your fixtures gets the right final voltage. Most professional transformers offer voltage choices of 12 to 15 volts. The higher voltage choices are important when light fixtures are further away from the transformer. Our transformers also feature low-voltage circuit breakers for safety and to protect the transformer from any electrical shorts.
The transformers we use allow you more options when it comes to choosing a timer since there is a place to plug in a range of smart timers. This gives you the option to select the right timer for your individual needs and budget, including digital timers that understand dusk and dawn, and self-change for daylight savings. These have a 7+ day battery backup, making them super dependable. And because they use an internal, removable timer, if the timer fails you won’t lose your whole transformer.
These smart timers know when dusk and dawn are without the need for an electronic eye, so you can have “on at dusk” settings but still tuck your transformer out of view, in an outdoor location such as a shed, garage, or even under your deck. You may also seamlessly add these transformers to a complete Lighting Control Automation (LCA )and/or home automation system. Upgrading the timer as your needs change.
Ready To Learn More?
Whether you are in the market for a new landscape lighting installation, an LED upgrade or retrofit, or expansion to your existing system we have you covered! Let us elevate your Atlanta home with our expert outdoor lighting services. Contact us to schedule an appointment with Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Atlanta to get, and keep, your system operating at peak condition.
