15 Best Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
The best low voltage landscape lighting can boost home security, allow you to enjoy your yard long after the sun sets, and increase safety when roaming around at night.
For the best results, plan to include different lighting types and fixtures. Certain exterior details, such as shrubs or trees, and architectural features, are best suited for certain light fixtures.
Consider utilizing a mix of some underground well lights, pathway lighting, and wide-angled floodlights, and spotlights to brighten up your property and landscaping when the sky turns dark.
When purchasing landscape lighting, consider the bulb type and power source that suit your needs. That said, letโs learn more about landscape lighting and review some lights.
What is Low Voltage Landscape Lighting?
A low voltage landscape lighting is a type of lighting mechanism that utilizes 12 or 24 volts. Itโs different from the line voltage that utilizes 120 volts.
This mechanism usually requires a transformer to decrease the voltage types from 120 volts to 12 volts. Itโs a bit costly but with a low cost of work.
What Are the Best Low Voltage Landscape Lightings?
Using a low voltage landscape light is one of the greatest ways to decorate the exterior of your property. Landscape lighting can also increase the security of your home at night.
That being said, itโs time that you invest in low voltage landscape lighting. Some of the reputable brands on the market that you can trust include Hypergiant, Moonrays, ZUCKEO, and LITOM.
They produce some of the best lighting appliances and provide a wide array of lights for different needs. Letโs throw a quick look at their best-rated products and their features.
- Best Overall: LITOM 12 LEDs Solar Landscape Lighting
โSupreme quality ensured, 12 cool white solar spotlights, long working time, great price, energy-saving.โ - Best Budget: Moonrays 1W Outdoor Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
โAdjustable LED spotlights, perfect for highlighting yard, very well-made, small size yet powerful output.โ - Best for Driveway: ZUCKEO 5W LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
โPerfect for driveways, warm light, thick aluminum body, triple water-resistant, keeps burglars away.โ - Best with Replaceable Bulbs: LEMONBEST LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
โWell-designed, good bright light, great decoration, 3x2W Epistar bulb, easy to install, budget-friendly.โ - Best for Pools: Nekteck 4 Pack Solar Landscape Lighting
โGreat for night lighting and ambiance, all-weather resistant, 2-in-1 installation, high-efficiency, cheap.โ - Best for Trees: Hypergiant 12W LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
โNice color, great for uplighting trees, triple water-resistant, low cost but expensive-looking LED lights.โ - Best for Walls: URPOWER Solar Outdoor Landscape Lighting
โThe light is strong, charges fast, best low voltage landscape wall lighting, bright even during the day.โ - Best Kits: Sterno Home Outdoor Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
โSoft warm glow, 12 durable lights with a quick-clip connector, made of heavy-duty plastic materials.โ - Best for Gardens: COVOART 12W LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
โ12W LED landscape lights, work well even in cold weather, perfect for gardens, lots of color options.โ - Best Solar-Powered: Solpex 6 Pack Solar Landscape Lighting
โHigh-efficiency LED pathway lights, built to last, 14500 lithium rechargeable battery, easy to install.โ
Low Voltage Landscape Lighting Comparison Chart
Every low voltage landscape lighting is different and meets different needs. Therefore, when buying low voltage landscape lighting, consider their material, lumens, and wattage.
The following chart compares some of the best low voltage landscape lighting available today. Opt for a set of lights within your budget that will keep your property safe at night.
15 Best Low Voltage Landscape Lighting Reviews 2023
Build the ultimate outdoor lighting system with these picks for the best landscape lighting including low voltage and solar-powered options for your property.
Hopefully, the following reviews can help you find the best low voltage landscape lighting for you. These lights will keep your home illuminated and safe at night.
LITOM 12 LEDs Solar Landscape Lighting
(Best Value Low Voltage Landscape Lighting)
The Litom solar lighting kit includes 12 LED lights that stand out when brightening up a great bright light with a broader lighting angle unlike other lights out there.
The upgraded battery and solar panel offer a longer working time. Thus, you donโt need to worry about insufficient operating time. I like this lighting kit because itโs super-versatile.
You can utilize this kit of solar spotlights for illuminating pathways, gardens, yards, fences, stairs, garage, attic, front porch, walkway, driveway, balcony, cellar, garden, and even camping.
The best part? The lighting can also be installed to alarm those who sneak around your property for bad attempts. This lighting will increase the safety of you and your loved ones.
It features 2 modes including low light and high light mode. Both the low and high light mode will charge during the day and light up the DIM or BRIGHT light at night.
Key features:
- 2 installation methods
- 12 cool white solar spotlights
- Leading IP67 waterproof technology
- 2 brightness lighting modes
- Supreme quality ensured
Pros
- Longer working time
- Nice light and great price
- Solar-powered and energy-saving
- Brightest solar lights ever
- A simple installation
Cons
- Limited use
- Poor quality control
- Small battery
Product Specifications:
Brand: | LITOM |
Color of light: | Cool white |
Warranty: | 24-month warranty |
Material: | High-impact ABS plastic, high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon |
Type: | Spotlight |
Moonrays 1W Outdoor Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
(Best Inexpensive Low Voltage Landscape Lighting)
If youโre looking for a budget-friendly and stylish landscape lighting, look no further than Moonrays. Itโs a set of 2 adjustable LED landscape spotlights covered by a 1-year limited warranty.
I like these spotlights because they have adjustable heads that let you point the light wherever you need it to be. Created of black, diecast aluminum, these lights are super-durable and modern.
They will easily blend into your landscape. Do you know that when your home is lit, burglars and thieves are less likely to target it? Meaning, these lights will also increase the safety of your home.
Moonrays outdoor low voltage landscape lighting is water-resistant. You also donโt have to worry about dirt and dust. These lights are 10.6 inches from top to bottom and weigh 12.8 ounces.
Key features:
- Adjustable LED spotlights
- Theyโre 10.6 inches from top to bottom
- Made of black, diecast aluminum, and frosted glass
- The above-ground height is about 4 inches
- 1-year limited warranty
Pros
- Great for a tree lighting
- Super bight and very durable
- The lights work and look great
- Finger tightening connector thatโs easier to use
- Small size yet powerful output
- Perfect for highlighting yard
- Very well-made lights
Cons
- Short lifespan
- Poor connectors
- They get hot
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Moonrays |
Color of light: | Warm white |
Warranty: | 1-year limited warranty |
Material: | Black, diecast aluminum, frosted glass |
Type: | Spotlight |
BEAU JARDIN 8 Pack Solar Landscape Lighting
If you want to have the most beautiful garden in the whole neighborhood, opt for Beau Jardin’s 8 pack of solar path lights. They measure 4.72-inches in diameter and 16.54-inches in height.
Theyโre wireless lights with a stainless steel auto sensor and watertight diamond glass light shade. They donโt take much time or effort to install. The best part? Theyโre super easy to utilize.
You donโt need extra tools to install this system. What I like most about this lighting are the auto on/off energy-saving and white dรฉcor. They absorb sunlight during the day and recharge the battery.
The best part? They automatically turn on and turn off which enables the lights to conserve battery life. But hereโs the kicker. Theyโre eco-friendly, all-weather-resistant, and high-efficiency.
Key features:
- Auto on/off energy-saving and white decor
- Rustproof substantial glass and stainless steel auto sensor
- 8 pack of wireless solar pathway garden lights
Pros
- Great front yard decor
- High-efficiency and eco-friendly
- Well-made, super-bright, and attractive
- Longest-lasting life of any LEDs on the market
- They improve the looks of the walkway
- Glowing light that lasts 8-12 hours
- All-weather-resistant
Cons
- Limited use
- Big and heavy
- Flimsy plastic
Product Specifications:
Brand: | BEAU JARDIN |
Color of light: | Soft white |
Warranty: | 1-year warranty |
Material: | Stainless steel, glass, rugged ABS plastic |
Type: | Pathway |
URPOWER Solar Outdoor Landscape Lighting
(Best Low Voltage Landscape Lighting for Trees)
The URPOWER solar outdoor landscape lighting provides brighter and wider lighting. The lights feature a 3-side design and 24 LEDs and provide brighter and 270-degree wide-angle illumination.
The best part? The illumination span can reach 800 sq ft when 4 lights are utilized simultaneously. It also has 3 modes to meet your different needs including medium, dim light, and high brightness.
The medium-light mode keeps on all night, while the dim light sensor mode is activated when thereโs no motion. The high brightness is activated by a motion for 20 seconds. It goes off when thereโs no motion. Theyโre solar-powered. Meaning, the solar motion sensor lights turn sunlight into electricity.
The 2200mAh battery capacity can meet your needs for all-night use. I love these lights because theyโre all-weather ready. They can withstand snow, rain, and other extreme weather conditions.
Key features:
- All-weather ready
- IP65 waterproof design
- Solar-powered sensor lights
- Bright and wide lighting
- 3 working modes
Pros
- Great price for 4 lights
- Bright even during the day
- Perfect for a front door, garage, backyard, porch, pathway, deck, driveway, and entrances
- They charge fairly quickly
- The light is very strong
Cons
- Inconsistent
- Poor quality switches
- Short lifespan
Product Specifications:
Brand: | UPPOWER |
Color of light: | Cool white |
Warranty: | 1-year warranty |
Material: | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene |
Type: | Wall light |
Nekteck 4 Pack Solar Landscape Lighting
(Best Low Voltage Landscape Lighting Around Pool)
The Nekteck is a pack of 4 solar spotlights that absorb sunlight so they can deliver high lumen output at night. This allows you to enjoy a super lit garden, yard, or pool at night.
The angle can be adjusted up to 180-degrees which is great for accentuation and illumination of specific and dark places such as walkways, pathways, driveways, and other places.
You can also adjust the angle of the solar panel up to 90-degree for optimum sun exposure. This feature increases the solar energy conversion up to 20%. The price is also amazing.
The lights have 2 brightness modes including low and high, enabling them to stay lit for 6-10 hours after being fully charged. Itโs super easy to utilize and has a 2-in-1 installation.
Key features:
- 2 brightness modes
- 2-in-1 installation and easy to utilize
- Adjustable solar panel and light angle
- High-efficiency adjustable solar panel
- All-weather-resistant
Pros
- Easy to install and well-made
- Great for night lighting and ambiance
- As bright as you would want an accent light
- The perfect solar solution for everyone
- Ideal for driveways, yards, etc
Cons
- Unreliable
- They donโt hold a charge for long
- Limited use
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Nekteck |
Color of light: | Warm white with a yellow tint |
Warranty: | 2-year warranty |
Material: | Plastic |
Type: | Spotlight |
ZUCKEO 5W LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
(Best Low Voltage Landscape Lighting for Driveway)
The ZUCKEO is a set of 8 pieces that makes a perfect choice for illuminating fences, gardens, patios, and pathways. Theyโre not only good for security but also embellishment with lovely white lights.
If youโre looking for safe low voltage lighting for outdoor use, look no further than this set of lights. Itโs compatible with most low voltage landscape lighting kits but needs a transformer for installation.
The transformer isnโt included in the package. Made of thick aluminum, this lighting is water-resistant. The glass lens cover design can endure snowy and rainy weather. The IP65 waterproof design boosts the stability of outdoor lighting and ensures long-term use. The lights have 270-degree adjustable heads.
You can utilize these lights for walls, trees, fences, gardens, yards, patios, driveways, and outdoor dรฉcor. The installation is easy and needs low voltage wires and a transformer (not included in the set).
Key features:
- 500 lumens each
- Triple water-resistant
- 270-degree adjustable heads
- Perfect for yards, gardens, patios, trees, fences, driveways, and pathways
- Rotatable and widely applicated
- Glass lens cover design
- Thick aluminum body
- IP65 waterproof
Pros
- Easy to install
- Nice warm light
- Keeps burglars away
- Well-made and durable
- Excellent landscape lights
- Great value for money
- Water resistance
- Frost resistance
- Heat resistance
Cons
- Dim light
- Limited use
- Thin wires
Product Specifications:
Brand: | ZUCKEO |
Color of light: | Warm white |
Warranty: | 24-month warranty |
Material: | Aluminum, glass |
Type: | Spotlight |
LEONLITE 12-Pack LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
The LEONLITE is a pack of 12 ETL listed landscape lights. Theyโre safe to utilize around children and pets. If youโre looking for landscape lighting thatโs easy to connect, look no further than LEONLITE.
Made of rugged aluminum, their body is corrosion resistant and heat resistant. The waterproof rating of these lights ensures better waterproof performance and makes this set suitable for wet locations.
The 6 LED chips and the upgraded lens deliver enough brightness without glare. Also, the high CRI of 90+ allows this landscape light to bring out the natural color of different objects such as trees or walls.
They have 40K hours long lifespan. But hereโs the kicker. Theyโre also covered by a 5-year warranty. You will get a 4.9 ft long power cable, 24 wire connectors, and instructions for a quick installation.
Key features:
- Safe to use around kids and pets
- Rugged aluminum housing thatโs heat resistant and corrosion resistant
- The high CRI of 90+ allows this light to bring out the natural color of objects
- You will get a 4.9 ft long power cable, 24 wire connector, and instructions
- Makes grumpy neighbors jealous
Pros
- Long lifespan
- Lovely and bright lights
- Super easy to install attractive LED lights
- Great value for money
- Well-made
Cons
- Unreliable
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Leonlite |
Color of light: | Warm white |
Warranty: | 5-year warranty |
Material: | Aluminum, glass |
Type: | Pathway |
Sterno Home Outdoor Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
(Best Low Voltage Landscape Lighting Kits)
Looking for low voltage pathway lighting? If so, Sterno home outdoor landscape lighting is the perfect choice for you. Theyโre made of heavy-duty plastic materials.
These lights can endure sun exposure and moisture. You will get 12 black lights with frosted ribbed lens type, plastic construction, and easy to use quick clip connector.
With these lights, your entryways and pathways will be brightly lit. They boost the safety of your home, keeping burglars and thieves at bay when the sun goes down.
Key features:
- 1-year warranty
- Perfect for pathways and entryways
- 12 durable lights with a quick-clip connector
- Made of heavy-duty plastic materials
- A soft, warm glow
Pros
- Built to last
- Reliable brand
- Great value for money
- Clear instructions
- Fantastic quality
- Affordable
Cons
- Poorly made
- Poor quality quick-clip connector
- Cheap plastic
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Sterno |
Color of light: | Warm white |
Warranty: | 1-year warranty |
Material: | Plastic, glass |
Type: | Pathway |
MEIKEE 7W LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
The MEIKEE low voltage landscape lighting provides super brightness compared to other lights on the market. You will get 8 7W LED lights that can illuminate different places.
These lights provide both decoration and security with lovely warm white lights. They work with a lot of landscape lighting kits and need a transformer for installation (not included in the kit).
I like the thick aluminum body and an anti-corrosion polycarbonate lamp cap. If youโre looking for bright waterproof lights that can endure harsh weather, this set of low voltage lights is for you.
The IP66 waterproof design improves the stability of these lights and ensures long-term use. They have a flexible and rotatable angle adjustment and donโt take forever to install.
Key features:
- 12-month warranty
- Rotatable and flexible angle adjustment
- 8 7W LED lights for security and decoration
- Easy to install, user-friendly, and durable
- IP66 waterproof design
Pros
- Longer use life
- Reasonably-priced
- Lovely warm white lights
- Work as described
- Ideal brightness
Cons
- Poorly made
- Not ready to install
- Short lifespan
Product Specifications:
Brand: | MEIKEE |
Color of light: | Warm white |
Warranty: | 12-month warranty |
Material: | Polycarbonate, aluminum |
Type: | Spotlight |
ZUCKEO 6W RGB LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
I like this set of lights with remote control because theyโre very bright and have a color-selecting option. Meaning, you can change the color with a remote control thatโs included in the set.
However, you will need to purchase a transformer and extra electrical wire because theyโre not included in the set. These lights make a great choice for trails, steps, fences, trees, gardens, and more.
Thereโs also a memory function. When you shut down the power and turn on the light again, it will keep the same color that youโve selected before. These lights have 16 colors and 4 flashing modes.
Theyโre compatible with other low voltage lighting systems and donโt take forever to install, so if youโre looking for something well-made with a long lifespan, look no further than ZUCKEO.
Key features:
- A great choice for different applications
- IP66 waterproof design for stability and long-term use
- Color-changing LED landscape lights with remote control
- Memory function, 16 nice colors, and 4 flashing modes
- Aluminum body and glass lens cover design
Pros
- Your neighbors will be jealous
- Super-durable construction and easy to use
- High-quality LED color changing landscape lighting
- You wonโt be disappointed with these lights
- Affordable and super-versatile
Cons
- Short lifespan
Product Specifications:
Brand: | ZUCKEO |
Color of light: | 16 colors and 4 flashing modes |
Warranty: | 12-month warranty |
Material: | Aluminum, glass |
Type: | Spotlight |
LEMONBEST LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
(Best Low Voltage Landscape Lighting with Replaceable Bulbs)
If you want to make your property more stylish and boost the beauty of your garden, then this white led landscape light with a fixed bracket is the ideal choice for you.
Made of cast aluminum with glass lens, adjustable tilt up/down, and UV protected black paint finish, this led light makes a great option for outdoor use. But hereโs the kicker.
Itโs covered by a 2-year warranty. The package has one spotlight, a 3x2W Eipstar LED bulb, and a 12-inch cord. You can use this spotlight for gardens, hotels, lawns, etc.
Key features:
- 12-inch cord
- 3x2W Epistar bulb
- UV protected black finish
- Made of cast aluminum with glass lens
- Adjustable tilt up/down
- 2-year warranty
- Affordable
Pros
- Well-designed
- Good bright light
- The best priced LED low voltage landscape light
- Great decoration
- Easy to install
Cons
- Doesnโt last long
- No control over the lightโs color tone
- Poor instructions
Product Specifications:
Brand: | LEMONBEST |
Color of light: | Warm white |
Warranty: | 2-year warranty |
Material: | Cast aluminum, glass |
Type: | Spotlight |
COVOART 12W LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
Another landscape lighting thatโs worth your time and money is this set of 4 12W COB LED lights. They make a great option for sidewalks, driveways, fences, yards, and gardens.
They will not only illuminate your property but also make a lovely decoration and increase the safety of your home. This 4-in-1 landscape lighting is the perfect solution for multiple applications.
The UL plug isnโt waterproof, so keep it from water. The best part about these lights is that theyโre easy to install. You donโt need to hire a professional. Just plug-in power and youโre done. Cord-electric lights make a better choice than solar lights because theyโre not affected by the lack of sunlight.
On the contrary, they ensure a stable outdoor landscape lighting system. Theyโre water-resistant thanks to the durable shell and glass lens cover design with an IP66 waterproof rating.
Key features:
- 12-month warranty
- 12W LED landscape lights
- Super bright warm white lights
- Made of high-impact ABS plastic
- Easy installation and great price
- Great for a lot of applications
- Triple water-resistant
Pros
- Bright and waterproof
- Work well even in cold weather
- Easy to set up and lots of color options
- The ideal lights for outdoor use
- Great value for money
Cons
- Donโt last long
Product Specifications:
Brand: | COVOART |
Color of light: | Warm white |
Warranty: | 12-month warranty |
Material: | High-impact ABS plastic, glass |
Type: | Pathway |
Solpex 6 Pack Solar Landscape Lighting
(Best Solar-Powered Landscape Lighting)
If youโre searching for high-efficiency LED pathway lighting, look no further than this 6 pack by Solpex. These lights have a durable and stainless steel construction. Theyโre reliable and elegant.
They also deliver more light and make a great choice for flower beds, patios, driveways, and much more. The best part? Theyโre super easy to install. No electricity. No wiring. Just take off the tab under the light cap, turn on the switch, pull out the bottom spike from the tube, and insert the light into the soil.
The solar pathway lights will turn on at night and turn off in the morning. Theyโre waterproof and super strong. If youโre not satisfied with the item, you can return it within 60 days for a full refund.
Key features:
- High-efficiency LED pathway lights
- Easy to install (no electricity, no wiring)
- Solid transparent glass and metal black finish
- Classic hollow design and longer working time
- 14500 lithium rechargeable battery
Pros
- IP44 waterproof rating
- Well-made and well-packed
- Durable, elegant, and reliable
- Excellent value for money
- Super bright path lights
Cons
- Lack of light
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Solpex |
Color of light: | Warm white |
Warranty: | Not specified |
Material: | Stainless steel, glass |
Type: | Pathway |
GIGALUMI 6 Pack Solar Landscape Lighting
I highly recommend the 6 pack solar landscape lighting by GIGALUMI for homeowners who prefer soft, solar-powered landscape lights with a broad irradiation range.
This set can illuminate your walkway, yard, patio, or lawn. They absorb sunlight during the day and turn on automatically at night, saving energy and keeping the environment safe.
Theyโre made of metal and glass. Meaning, they reflect more light and ensure long-term use. The best part? Theyโre also waterproof, so you donโt have to stress about bad weather.
The anti-rust coating on the metal top prevents regenerative erosion. I love this set because itโs easy to install. They measure 5.3-inch in diameter and 19-inch in height.
Key features:
- 6 pack LED pathway lights
- Waterproof and easy to install
- Warm light and wide irradiation range
- Anti-rust coating on the metal top
- Created of metal and glass
Pros
- Attractive and well-made
- They look pretty on pathways
- Well-packed and detailed instructions
- Easy to install and charge quickly
- Beautiful and durable lights
Cons
- They donโt hold a charge for long
Product Specifications:
Brand: | GIGALUMI |
Color of light: | Warm white |
Warranty: | Not specified |
Material: | Metal, glass |
Type: | Pathway |
Hypergiant 12W LED Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
(Best Low Voltage Landscape Lighting for Trees)
Last but not least, I have another set of bright lights that will illuminate your home and boost the safety of you and your loved ones. These lights make a great choice for pathways, trees, etc.
The best part? Theyโre compatible with most low voltage landscape lighting systems. You will need a low voltage transformer for installation. This piece of equipment isnโt included in the package.
I highly recommend this low voltage landscape lighting to every homeowner because itโs super-durable, triple water-resistant, and has an IP65 waterproof design that boosts the stability of the lighting.
What I like most about this landscape lighting is the 270-degree adjustable head. Itโs easy to install. You donโt need any extra tools. Just insert the light spike stand into the soil. Itโs that easy!
Key features:
- User-friendly
- Triple water-resistant
- Rotatable and widely applicated
- Warm white LED lights
- Easy to install
Pros
- Durable design
- Great for uplighting trees
- Low cost but expensive-looking LED lights
- Super bright and reliable
- Nice warm color
Cons
- High failure rate
- They arenโt rust-resistant
- Hard to connect
Product Specifications:
Brand: | Hypergiant |
Color of light: | Warm white |
Warranty: | 2-year warranty |
Material: | Aluminum, glass |
Type: | Spotlight |
Buying Guide: What is the Best Low Voltage Landscape Lighting?
You can easily turn your landscaping into a paradise. All you need is to set up the right landscape lights. The transformation will not only impress you but also increase the safety of your property.
However, choosing the best low voltage landscape lighting can be overwhelming with so many products on the market. The next tips and features you need to consider can help you in the process.
How much Lighting do You Need?
Before you go shopping, determine how much lighting you need and what you want to illuminate. It can be tempting to buy a lot of lights but donโt forget that this will affect your electricity bill.
Identify the main places that you want to illuminate and what type of landscape lighting you will need. A good tip is to have proper lighting in your entryway for a welcoming feel and extra safety.
What Effects do You Want to Achieve?
Landscape lighting can give your patio, garden, entryway, driveway, or yard a great effect depending on the type you pick. With outdoor lighting, you can achieve the next effects.
- Uplighting provides an exciting appearance to your landscape by illuminating different features such as trees. Well-lights or spotlights make a great choice for this type of effect.
- If you put the light source behind a certain object, you can create the Silhouette effect. You will need well lights or spotlights to achieve this type of effect.
- Shadowing where you install the light at a vantage spot so that it makes shadows around certain features. This effect can be achieved with well-lights, spotlights, and floodlights.
- Moonlighting makes a great choice for properties with towering trees. Install your spotlight high up on the tree. That way, you will create a lovely shadow effect on the ground.
- Grazing is where you utilize hardscape lights or well lights, whether down or up, to put the focus on the texture of a wall. I love this effect because itโs so elegant and thoughtful.
- Washing is when you utilize floodlights to provide a bunch of ambient lighting in a specific place.
- Path lighting utilizing path lights or bollards to illuminate your walkway or driveway.
If youโre not certain what type of landscape lighting will best suit your property or you canโt decide what type of effect you want to achieve, take a look at some landscape lighting ideas.
Power and Performance
You have a lot of options considering the power source for your landscape lighting. You can either utilize your electricity or opt for a solar-powered option.
The latter is cheaper. However, the whole investment can be costly. Consult a professional on where to put a solar panel so that you catch enough sunlight to power your lights.
If youโre using your electricity, you should ensure that you purchase a longer extension cord. Otherwise, you wonโt be able to light up your whole yard properly.
Type of Bulb
Thereโs a wide array of bulb types you can pick for your landscape lighting. LED lights have been popular among homeowners. They provide long-term usage at a low cost.
Although theyโre costly, LED lights can save you money in the long run. You donโt have to keep replacing them. High-intensity bulbs (HID) make a great choice for larger outdoor places.
You can also choose compact fluorescent and halogen lights (CFL). However, they can get very hot. Also, they have mercury. Therefore, they pose a health risk if they break.
Brightness
Low voltage landscape lighting is less bright than other lights. You can choose from halogen, fluorescent, LED, or high-intensity (HID) lighting depending on your needs.
The brightness depends on the bulb type. Halogen and fluorescent lights are excellent choices. However, it should be changed frequently. I prefer LED lights for better brightness.
Theyโre costly but also energy-efficient. They donโt need frequent replacement and donโt have warm-up time. The installation is 100% safe, unlike customary light sources.
Stability for Outdoor/Indoor Use
The IP rating informs clients how all around secured the light fitting is against dust, dampness, and other unfamiliar bodies. Most indoor lights have an IP rating of 22.
What type of landscape lighting can be utilized outdoor and indoor fully depends on the IP rating. IP44 is commonly used for different lights that are suitable for outdoor use.
Opt for something with IP65 or higher rating if your light fittings will be exposed to harsh weather. Look for IPX3 (IP43) when shopping for a light for your nursery.
Impact Resistance
Impact resistance is a very important feature for any type of light including landscape lights.
The impact resistance of light against different external effects can be listed utilizing the international IK rating. Itโs a digital classification to show the different degrees of protection against impacts.
To reach the IK rating a light must withstand at least three very similar effects from test apparatuses. For instance, spring, pendulum, or drop hammers. Impact resistivity is the main part of the IK rating.
Therefore, when shopping for landscape lighting, pay close attention to the IK rating value.
Why Use Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting?
Low voltage outdoor lighting comes with a few benefits. Itโs easier to utilizes and install and doesnโt cost much. Letโs discuss some of the benefits associated with the use of such lights.
- The low voltage landscape lighting is the easiest way to embellish your property. The best part? You can highlight the part thatโs most appealing to the eyes of passersby.
- If youโre looking to illuminate your backyard with little electricity or no electricity at all, volt light is the way to go! Itโs one of the greatest light sources that doesnโt cost a fortune to install. It also reduces your electricity bills. What more could you possibly ask for?
- LED lights make a great choice for homeowners whoโre looking for energy-efficient lighting. But thatโs more expensive than halogens or solar lights.
- You can illuminate your garages, patios, pathways, gardens, and other areas utilizing low voltage lights. Solar landscape lights are a popular choice among homeowners.
- Solar landscape lights are super-efficient whether utilized for light purposes or not. Theyโre very powerful and have different modes. They come with a rechargeable battery. The best part? You donโt have to worry about charging because they charge themselves.
Is Low Voltage Landscape Lighting DC?
You can choose between 2 main types of landscape lighting mechanisms including line voltage (120 volt AC) and low voltage (12 volt DC).
Low voltage landscape lighting is DC and utilizes 12 volts only. It wonโt shock you if you touch a wire and close an open circuit. Itโs a fairly easy setup for handy homeowners.
You donโt need to set up electrical wires with the constant fear of injury or shock. Itโs one of the easiest ways to embellish your property.
How Does Low Voltage Landscape Lighting Work?
Low voltage landscape lighting is powered via a transformer that drops the standard voltage down to 12 volts. These systems arenโt dangerous to work with.
On the contrary, theyโre safe, energy-efficient, and easy to install. You can easily move them around the property. Theyโre plugged into a GFCI outlet outdoors.
How to Install Low Voltage Landscape Lights?
The first thing you need to consider before installing low voltage outdoor lighting is your current setup. Understanding what youโre working with gives you a good base.
Check if your current setup already has lighting fixtures setup. Also, find out which new connections and fixtures you need. Take notes of any cables or ports you need for your future lighting.
A lot of new properties in residential places have landscape lighting sources on the sides of the property. If you donโt have a basic setup like this, you should contact a professional to find one.
That makes it safer and easier for you to identify a source of electricity. Once you have all of this figured out, you can continue with installing your new low voltage landscape lighting.
If youโre installing walkway lights, itโs a smart idea to put the lights on the ground where they should go. Instead of plugging them in, lay them down. Also, keep them 8-10 feet apart.
Put the first fixture 10 ft from your power source or transformer.
When youโre lining up the lights, utilize a 14-gauge cord for lighting mechanisms that have 200 watts or less. If they have over 200 watts, utilize a 12-gauge mechanism.
When you face an issue during lining, itโs suggested to string the cable around or under it. Donโt pass via a fence or shrub. The next step is preparing the ground for your future lights.
Begin by digging a three-inch trench next to the pathway where your new lighting will be installed. This is where youโre going to put the electric cord. Once youโre done, keep the soil.
You will need the soil for later when youโve installed the lights. Setup the transformer and establish the electrical connection. If youโre new to this, you may need the help of an expert.
If youโre not familiar with how transformers work, donโt hesitate to call a professional and ask for help. Different products and different units have different transformers fixed to them.
Either way, your lighting mechanism, and the transformer need to be fixed to a power source. Once you have figure out the electrical wiring, then begin digging holes for the stands.
When youโre digging a hole, you just have to go 2-3 inches deep. Once your holes are done, youโre ready to place everything back in order. Begin by placing the electric wire in the three-inch hole that you made and put the light stands in the other holes that you dugout where they belong.
Put back the soil over the holes. Make sure that the lighting system is properly connected to the electric source. Also, make sure that the lights are linked to each other before you cover everything.
Once everything is done, itโs a smart idea to pass over it with a hose. Applying a bit of water enables the soil to mix and turn firmer. Change fused wires or old bulbs as soon as you find out.
You shouldnโt keep them damaged or outdated for too long. Otherwise, youโre risking the life of the rest of the lighting system. As you can notice, low voltage landscape lighting is fairly easy to set up.
Just identify the right electricity source and the proper place to get started with this lighting installation. If youโre having any trouble, you can always ask a professional for assistance.
How to Test Low Voltage Landscape Lighting?
Once your light mechanism and electricity have been working for a couple of weeks, itโs a smart idea to keep an eye on them and identify when something isnโt working the right way.
If you want to test low voltage landscape lighting, you need a voltmeter and ammeter. When it comes to testing, the lights and the transformer are the two main areas that you should be checking.
If youโre checking the transformer, begin by identifying the unit. Place a voltmeter head-on output lead of the transformer. Repeat the same process with the other point. The digit you notice is the amount of voltage you have at the moment.
Then, use an ammeter. Close it around one of the unitโs leads. The digit you view is the number of amps received from that lead. Compare these digits to your manual for the transformer.
If your results are lower than what theyโre supposed to be, the issue is in the transformer.
This was the testing method for transformers. The testing method for lights is a little different. Begin by taking off the bulb from the compartment youโre checking.
Test the compartment with a voltmeter. Remember the number of volts that appear on the voltmeter. Then, place the bulb back into place and utilize the ammeter.
Connect the ammeter to one of the leads providing power to the fixture. You will receive the number of amps being taken. Again, note or remember your results and compare them to your manual.
If theyโre too low, that means the issue is between this light and the transformer.
Do regular check-ups on your lighting mechanisms. Testing your low voltage landscape lighting can help you determine any weak transformers or lights before they become a serious issue.
Related Questions
Wrap Up
With the best low voltage landscape lighting, you can turn your lovely home from just another house in the neighborhood into a super lit modern property that will make your neighbors jealous.
All you need to do is determine the type of lighting best suits your property and what type of effect you want to accomplish. Then, opt for something within your budget and give your home a makeover.
You have a wide array of choices coming in at different prices. Hopefully, this buying guide can help you get the best bang for your buck. The LITOM 12 LEDs Solar Landscape Lighting is energy-efficient, super-versatile, and features two modes. Itโs solar-powered landscape lighting that will save you money.
However, if youโre looking for something cheaper but also effective, look no further than Moonrays 1W Outdoor Low Voltage Landscape Lighting. Itโs a pack of two stylish spotlights with adjustable heads.
Do you have a favorite low voltage landscape lighting yet? Whatโs your opinion on these products? Have you ever used any of the products mentioned in todayโs article? Share your thoughts below.