An easy guide to installing low voltage 12v garden lighting
Why is it a good idea to use 12v DC lamps and such when installing garden lighting. These are some good reasons for this as follows:
Number One point is Safety.
Running any outside lights using a reliable and safe 12v dc power supply reduces the risk of injury from high voltages substantially. In the event, damage to cables could mean the escape of dangerously high AC voltages into damp soil (which could of course electrocute not only the owner but anyone or anything else unfortunate enough to venture there). Of course a properly installed outdoor AC power circuit should be protected by a residual current device to chop power off if or when problems occur.
The next point to consider is efficiency.
One of the things we like about using 12V lighting direct is that it is more efficient. If however, you really want to ramp up the efficiency, it is strongly recommended to install a simple solar PV system. This consists of a Solar PV cell, solar power regulator and often a modest 12V gel battery. One can then harvest the power of the suns free energy and utilise it to power the exterior lighting either via the built in dusk till dawn switch or simply use a regular lighting switch to operate the lighting as required.
So, the question is can I install 12V DC lighting in a garden outbuilding, stable or shed. The simple answer is yes… If you are a keen do it yourself type person, hopefully this article will inspire you to go ahead.
Take a look at the items you will need:
When looking for a suitable light fitting be sure to choose as necessary for indoor or outdoor applications and be sure it can accept a regular B22 or E27 base fitting light bulb. You will then need a new OnSolar 12V DC lamp either CFL or LED to insert into your light fitting
Quality 2 core cables as required to wire inside your outbuilding. Other items required are, a 12v battery, A switch, A suitable Fuse unit (a single blade fuse recommended for each circuit you install), Small pack of wood screws, 15 amp connector block (cut off and use what you need as applicable), An IP65 connector box and two glands to connect your supply and bring the power into your outbuilding. Finally, exterior grade cable to run from your power source to your outbuilding (if applicable).
Your circuit can be powered by a DC low voltage transformer or \’wall wart\’. Check that it is powerful enough to deliver the power you require (A 12V DC 1 amp unit can cover up to 12 watts).
You may wish to operate or turn on and off the lighting via a switch mounted from within a remote location such as your home. This may be as simple as unplugging the wall wart which powers your exterior 12V lamp or could be a little more elaborate with a key fob style remote switch or maybe just a regular lighting switch. Don\’t forget that leaving transformers plugged in will mean energy is still being consumed even if your lamp is turned off.
Remember, a fuse is there to keep things safe for you so be sure to select the correct fuse rating for your circuit. Normally a single 3 amp automotive style blade fuse will be fine to cover a simple 12V lighting circuit with perhaps 10 or 15 watts combined load.
Tip: Remember that 1 amp is equal to around 12 watts at 12V DC.
Looking to find the best deal on OnSolar garden Lighting, then visit www.onsolar.co.uk to find the best advice on 12 Volt Garden Lighting for you.