The process of selecting parts for installation of low voltage lighting can be intimidating if you do not have experience in this area. The first thing you should do is to find lighting fixtures that you like and can be used with the light bulbs you want to use. You should also look for the best transformer for the new lighting system. Low voltage transformers are very easy to find and simple to use. Before commencing the installation process, the following factors should first be considered.
- The number of light bulbs to be powered by the transformer.
- The voltage required by the light bulbs.
- Individual and Total power consumption of the light bulbs.
- The type of supply they require – whether AC or DC.
In order to address these four items, some simple calculations must be done. For instance, if you have 10 LED 3 Watt bulbs, then the total power consumption of these lights will be 30 watts. Most low voltage bulbs run on 12 volts, you should therefore look for a 12v transformer – one that produces 12 Volts from the mains AC supply.
The choice of power supply, AC or DC, is also another important factor. However, when dealing with halogen lamps, AC voltage should be supplied. A simple linear step down transformer can supply 12 volts AC voltage without any rectification whatsoever. On the other hand, if you want to use LED bulbs, you will require a DC voltage source. In order to supply these LED bulbs with the appropriate voltage, you will need a step down low voltage transformer which has a rectification circuit. When shopping for a low voltage lighting transformer, you should take note of these initials, terminologies and abbreviations so that the salesman can get you the right product.
When doing the installation of the new lighting system, you should let a qualified electrician do the mains connection.
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