Lighting transformers are used to provide your landscape lights with low-voltage electricity. They are designed to take the higher voltage and convert it to a lower lever like a 12 volt or 24 volt, depending on the type of transformer you have. Having the right lighting transformer for your job is essential. When selecting a transformer there are several things you will have to take into account such as watt usage, location, zoning, and whether you want smart capabilities or not.
Selecting The Right Transformer
When getting your lighting job started you want to make sure you are using the correct transformer for the job. Here are some examples of things you want to consider.
- Wattage: You will want to find out how many watts you will be using in your lighting project. Different lights will have different wattage requirements, you will have to add up each light on your project and you will want to use about 80% of your transformer capacity. For example, if you have 10 lights and they all use 10 watts you will need a 120W transformer.
- Expansion: If you want to expand your landscape lighting in the future ensure you have selected the right transformer to do so. Give yourself an estimate of how many lights you might consider adding and the approximate wattage they will require for the future.
- Placement: Where you place your transformer will impact your decision on what transformer you use. It can depend on whether it is visible or not. It can also depend on how close your transformer is to the location of your lights which will impact the voltage drop. You will need to place your transformer at least 12 inches above ground level to prevent water damage.
- Zoning: When it comes to wanting to zone your lights you have a couple of options. Either you can have multiple transformers for different parts of your property, or you can get a multi-zone transformer. Kichler has a Smart Transformer that has 3 different zones, each one acting independently, each zone has a capacity of 100W.
- Smart Capabilities: Having a smart transformer can be an easy way to control your lighting system. You don’t need a smart transformer to have smart capabilities, you can add a Kichler Smart Control Accessory, or an ITimerPro so you have access to some smart aspects. Kichler’s Smart Control Transformer comes with all the smart capabilities you are looking for. You can read more in-depth about the smart transformer here. You will have to decide on what one will work best for you, either smart or basic, some prefer the simplicity of a basic transformer.
Transformers We Carry
Explore a Wide Range of Transformers from 60W-300W. We will unveil the benefits of our range of transformers.
Basic Photocell Transformers
All the transformers listed below will have a built-in photocell, and are designed to be installed in well-lit areas.
- Illumicares 100W Transformer has an auto switch that will have your transformer turn on from dusk till dawn, or you can use one of the hour switches that will keep the transformer on for 4 hours, 6 hours, or 8 hours after dusk. This transformer will also have a manual on/off switch.
- Kichler's built-in photocell transformers come in two different wattages, they come in a 60W and 120W. You have the option to use your photocell and keep your transformer on for the duration of the night until it becomes light enough to activate your photocell and turn the transformer off you may also have it come on after it gets dark for 4 hours, 6 hours, or 8 hours. These timers have a manual on/off switch on them as well.
- Alliance's 150W Transformer is similar to the Kichler and Illumicare photocell transformers, as it has the manual on/off, set hours for the photocell timer, 4 hours, 6 hours, and 8 hours. The photocell for this transformer is built in.
- Alliance's 200W Transformer, this transformer has a built-in photocell which has a couple of options on how to use it. You can have it on all night long from dusk till dawn, or you can set it to come on from 1-9 hours after it becomes dark. This transformer has a stainless steel cabinet, unlike the other built-in photocell transformers.
Contractor Series Transformers
We carry a 150W and 300W transformer, they are both multi-tap transformers from Kichler. This transformer is built with a heavy-duty stainless steel cabinet. This transformer does not have a built-in photocell. Not having a built-in photocell can be beneficial as you can put this transformer anywhere. If you want to add a photocell these transformers have the ability to have one added. With one easy step you can add a remote photocell plug in that comes in a 10-foot or a 3-inch cord length. If you are not wanting a photocell but still want to have it automated you can add a mechanical timer, digital timer, or a smart control timer.
Smart Contractor Series Transformers
Simplify your outdoor lighting set up with the Kichler Smart Controlled Transformer. This transformer has many benefits, one being that you don't need a photocell or an add-on mechanical timer, this transformer already has a built-in astronomical with its smart features. Install this transformer anywhere you have a connection to Wi-Fi outside. This transformer is constructed of heavy-duty stainless steel which can handle being out in the elements. If you want to learn more about this timer check out this article with all you need to know.
Multi-Tap Transformers
Multi-tap transformers are lighting transformers with multiple connections called taps within the transformer. These taps will supply power to your wire runs. The taps will generally be labelled 12V, 13V, 14V, and 15V. Most lighting systems will use the 12V tap but if you are doing a large system with long wire runs you will need to move up to a higher tap. Ultimately, a multi-tap transformer provides your lighting design with flexibility for your output voltage requirements, by adjusting the available voltage to compensate for voltage drops as wire runs get longer. We carry two multi-tape transformers, they come in 150W and 300W.
Whether you have a multi-tap or a traditional 12V transformer, it is important to remember to keep your system balanced, by having lights close to your transformer on one wire run, and those further away on another.
Conclusion
Transformers are an important part of your lighting system. Having the right transformer for your job is crucial. If you need help finding the right transformer one of our many knowledgeable staff are happy to help. Fill out our contact us form if you have any questions.