How to Install Low-Voltage Outdoor Lighting

Low voltage lights offer a lot of advantages for property owners. Not only do they offer a dramatic, yet subtle ambiance for your outdoor landscape, but they are also cost effective and safer to install. While it is always recommended that a certified electrician in Atlanta perform challenging and complex electrical tasks, some homeowners with extensive experience may want to attempt their own low voltage outdoor lighting installation. At Mr. Electric of Atlanta, Georgia, we proudly offer premium residential and commercial services including outdoor lighting installation, repair and replacement. Our team enjoys helping local clients find ways to improve their electrical system, and we want to help you do the same. Here are some tips on proper installation of low-voltage outdoor lighting, and what you can do if you need help from a professional electrician. 

Make Sure You Have Proper Outdoor Outlets

Before you can safely install low voltage lighting outdoors, you need to ensure that you have a GFCI outlet installed on the exterior of your house. If you don’t, then you need to call a certified electrician to perform this task first. 

Assemble and Place Lights Where You Want Them

First, take your light fixtures out of their packaging and assemble them according to the user manual. Then, place the lights in their designated location. Most low voltage systems will have stakes or some method of securing the fixtures to the ground.  

Mount the Transformer 

Next, mount the transformer onto the exterior wall, in an area close to your GFCI outlet. It needs to be at least one foot off the ground level to avoid exposure to water during heavy rains. Use the appropriate tools, bits and anchors to safely secure the transformer. 

Dig a Shallow Trench for Your Cable

When you are finished placing the lights, you will need to dig a trench to bury the cable beneath the ground. This will keep it safe from lawnmowers, pets and human traffic. While the trench will be shallow, it’s very important to contact your local utility company before you begin digging. There may be pipes or gas lines that you are unaware of. Once the trenches are finished, leave the cables exposed for the next step.

Connect the Cable to Electrical Power and Test the System

Shut off all electrical power to the area you are working at. Run the wiring from the lights through the riser base and attach the lights to the cable. Connect the low-voltage power cable to the terminals located on your transformer. Once the process is completed, you can restore electricity to your circuit and test the connection. 

Bury the Cable and Program Your System

If the lights are working correctly, then carefully bury your cable and program the lighting system as suggested by the manufacturer. 

Do You Need Help Installing Your Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting System? Call Mr. Electric Today

Are you concerned about the safety and accuracy of your outdoor lighting system installation? If you have no experience or training in electrical tasks, performing a low voltage lighting installation or replacement can be very intimidating and potentially dangerous. Thankfully, there’s no reason to put yourself or your property at risk. Call the experts at Mr. Electric of Atlanta, GA and we will send a team of certified, licensed and insured electricians to your home or business right away. Contact our office to discover more information about our wide range of commercial and residential services, or to schedule an appointment with an experienced electrician in Atlanta, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Dunwoody, Lilburn, Stone Mountain, Sandy Springs, Duluth, Johns Creek, Buckhead, Alpharetta, Suwanee, Woodstock, Canton, Cumming, Kennesaw, Lawrenceville, Roswell, Tucker, Doraville, Acworth, Georgia or another surrounding metro area neighborhood.