Why low voltage landscape lighting is better than line voltage (120v)

December 30, 2007

Low voltage lighting has been available for some time but homeowners, business owners, and landscape lighting professionals still often have questions about the differences between the two types of landscape lighting systems and what the advantages and disadvantages of each are. This article will provide a brief overview of the two types of lighting and highlight the differences.

What is line voltage or high voltage landscape lighting?

Line voltage or high voltage landscape lighting is simply outdoor lighting that runs on standard household line voltage which is usually 120 volts.

What is low voltage landscape lighting

Low voltage landscape lighting is a lighting system that uses a transformer or power converter to step-down standard in line 120 voltage to 12 volt power.

What are the Pros and Cons of high voltage landscape lighting?

The only real benefits of high voltage is that there is no need for a transformer and no concern or issue related to voltage drop which can occur in some landscape systems with long wire runs. There are no other true benefits that low voltage does not offer. However, there are many disadvantages:

1. High voltage wire must be buried a certain depth underground or be run through a protective conduit which makes installation more labor intensive and also makes it tough to move.

2. All fixtures, wire connections and other components of the system must be completely water proof because of the risk of electric shock.

3. High voltage lamps allow for very limited beam control options. Low voltage alternatives allow for more beam control and helps control glare. Basically, all that is available for high voltage landscape lighting is a flood light.

4. High voltage lamps are large and therefore must be housed in large fixtures. This limits the styles of fixtures that are available.

5. High voltage lighting is dangerous to work with and may require a licensed contractor and permits to install.

What are the Pros and Cons of low voltage landscape lighting?

There was only one real disadvantage of low-voltage lighting compared to high voltage and that was the problem of voltage drop. However, that disadvantage is no longer a concern with the use of highly efficient LED lamps. There are many advantages of using low voltage lighting systems:

1. Low voltage systems are safe, easy to install, and do not require the assistance of an electrician.

2. Low voltage wire does not have to be buried or put in conduit so it is easier to install and easy to move.

3. The smaller lamps allow for a smaller and more diverse line of fixtures.
4. Can be safely used in wet locations without risk of electric shock.

5. Low voltage lamps are available with a variety of lens shapes and configurations which allow for a broad range of beam control. One can select anything from a very focused 12 degree spot light to a 60 degree wide flood.

6. Highly efficient LED lamps consume 80-95% less energy than comparable high voltage lamps.