By Zach Everett
Adding landscape lighting is one of the easiest ways to make your yard look beautiful at night. It also adds safety by lighting up paths, driveways, and steps. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to install low voltage landscape lighting step-by-step. This is a project most homeowners can do themselves with just a few tools and some planning.
What is Low Voltage Landscape Lighting?
Low voltage lighting uses a transformer to lower your home’s standard 120-volt power down to just 12 volts. That makes it safe to work with, even for beginners. It’s also energy-efficient and perfect for lighting up flower beds, trees, walkways, and patios.
Why Choose Low Voltage Lighting?
- Safe for DIYers
- Energy-efficient
- Easy to expand later
- Doesn’t require deep trenching or complex wiring
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Basic Tools:
- Wire stripper
- Shovel or trenching tool
- Stake installer or rubber mallet
- Drill (if mounting to walls or hardscape)
Lighting Equipment:
- Transformer (choose one big enough for your total wattage)
- Low voltage landscape lights
- Low voltage wire (typically 12/2 or 14/2)
- Waterproof wire connectors or quick clamps
- Optional: voltage meter, timer, or photocell sensor
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Step 1: Plan Your Layout
Walk around your yard and take note of areas you want to highlight. Mark any existing underground wires or irrigation lines to avoid hitting them when digging. Sketch out your plan on paper and decide where each light will go.
Step 2: Assemble Your Lights
Unpack your lights and install bulbs if needed. There are three main ways to mount lights:
- Stake-mounted: Pushed directly into the soil.
- Surface-mounted: Attached to hard surfaces with screws.
- In-ground: Buried into the soil.
Step 3: Place the Fixtures
Lay your lights on the ground where you plan to install them. Use a tape measure for even spacing, especially along paths or driveways.
Step 4: Mount the Transformer
Install your transformer near a GFCI outlet. Make sure it has:
- 1 foot of clearance on all sides
- At least 30 feet of distance from water
- A stable surface like a wall or post
Step 5: Dig Trenches and Run Wire
Use a shovel or trenching tool to dig a trench about 6 inches deep. Run wire from your transformer to each light location. Leave about 5 feet of extra wire at both ends for adjustments.
Step 6: Connect the Transformer
Most transformers have terminals labeled “COM” and “12V” or “15V.”
- Use 12V for short runs and fewer lights
- Use 15V for longer runs or more lights Connect the main wire to the correct terminals. Protect exposed wire in conduit until it reaches the ground.
Step 7: Connect the Lights
Strip the wire ends and connect each light using waterproof twist-on connectors or quick clamps. If using hubs, connect multiple lights in one spot.
Step 8: Test the System
Turn on the transformer and check each light. If a fixture doesn’t turn on, check your connections.
Step 9: Adjust the Lights
Wait until nighttime and walk around your yard. Adjust angles and positions to get the lighting effect you want. Fix any glare by repositioning the fixture or using a glare guard.
Step 10: Finish Up
Bury all remaining exposed wire. Set your transformer’s timer or photocell sensor so your lights turn on automatically each night.
FAQ: How to Install Low Voltage Landscape Lighting
Q: Do I need an electrician?
A: Not for low voltage systems. As long as you use a GFCI outlet and follow the instructions, most homeowners can do this safely.
Q: How deep should I bury the wire?
A: About 6 inches is usually enough, but check your local codes.
Q: What size transformer do I need?
A: Add up the wattage of all your lights and choose a transformer that handles at least 20% more than your total.
Q: Can I add more lights later?
A: Yes, just make sure your transformer has enough extra capacity.
Q: What if a light isn’t working?
A: Check the wire connections first. A bad splice is usually the issue.
Installing low voltage landscape lighting is a simple way to bring beauty and security to your yard. Take your time, follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying your new outdoor lighting in no time. If you have questions, I’m always happy to help!
