Indicate the positions on your sketch and mark what fixture types will go at each location. Set Fixture Locations. Before you install any fixtures in the property, mark their approximate positions in the landscape using small flags or pencils. Mark transformer locations on your sketch.ģ. If multiple transformers are used then create a separate plan for each one. Sometimes it makes sense to use more than one transformer – especially when fixtures are situated throughout a large property. It should be as close as possible to the fixture locations. The best placement for the low voltage transformer is usually next to the house in a hidden location (behind a garden bed, near air conditioning equipment, etc.). Attach this to a clipboard so you can walk the property and sketch as you go along.Ģ. You can use a blank piece of paper or graph paper.

Try to be as accurate as possible with your sketch because you will be using it to help estimate distances for wire runs. For larger properties, use a separate piece of paper for each lighting region (zone). Most landscape lighting designers begin their layout by creating a rough sketch of the property, marking where each fixture will be placed. These connections can be made in several ways that involve any of various connector types. The wire from the transformer needs to connect to the wires from the fixtures. Selecting the proper size wire is one of the most important aspects of the lighting plan we’ll elaborate below. The wire is rated according to the size of its conductors. This is the cable that connects to the transformer and supplies power to the fixtures. The voltage supplied to the fixtures is critical and we will discuss that below. The lamp could be the older incandescent (usually halogen) type or it could be an LED lamp. Each lighting fixture contains a light source – either an integrated (built-in) LED source or a replaceable lamp (bulb). They get their power from the transformer. These are, of course, the producers of light. Outdoor installation is preferred for do-it-yourself installation. But running the wires through the wall requires the skills of an electrician since special codes apply. Alternatively, the transformer could be located inside the house – usually the basement or garage.

Ideally, it is mounted to a stand near the house, or attached directly to the structure – keep in mind the bottom of the transformer needs to be at least 12″ from the ground. Basic LayoutĪ landscape lighting system has four main components: These are the main steps, along with some tips to ensure a successful installation.

Laying out an installation plan for a low voltage landscape lighting system is fairly straightforward, but it’s helpful to know a few things up front.

Larger than light lighting