Low voltage lighting as easy to install as 1-2-3

Do-it-yourselfers are tackling every around-the-house job from resurfacing the asphalt drive to installing low voltage outdoor lighting. According to Intermatic Inc., makers of the Canterbury Collection, a premium line of outdoor low voltage lighting products, low voltage outdoor lighting systems are economical to operate, safer than 120-volt systems and easy to install.

The only required tool is a screwdriver, and the transformer reduces regular household electrical current (120 volts) to a harmless 12 volts. Even if one were to touch the bare wires or cut a buried cable, no electric shock would be felt, Despite these convenient safeguards, Intermatic recommends following these basic do’s and don’ts:

Do:

^ Assess your landscape before purchasing low voltage lights to create a plan for the areas you want to highlight.

^ To keep voltage drop to a minimum, use a higher gauge cable for longer runs. If using more than 100 feet of cable or more than 150 total lamp watts, less than 16-gauge cable is appropriate.

^ All Intermatic fixtures are corrosion-resistant. However, to maintain performance of fixture parts, remove all lamps once a year and spray the sockets and contact points with a silicone-based lubricant.

^ Low voltage lamp bulbs are designed for long life. However, replace bulbs regularly to ensure maximum light output and prevent blackening of the bulb.

^ Check ground level fixtures regularly to ensure proper positioning. Children, pets and lawn maintenance machines can dislodge ground level fixtures. Periodic readjustment might be required to keep desired look,

^ Keep all manufacturer paperwork and manuals provided with low voltage lights for reference in the future. Create a file containing manuals to include with other important filed documents.

^ Do not forget to illuminate areas around windows, doors and porches. Low voltage outdoor lighting deters burglars.

^ If installing lights in or near water, be sure to use the proper equipment. Check with the manufacturer for confirmation.

Don’t:

^ Don’t forget to connect low voltage light transformers to a weatherproof, outdoor electrical outlet. Extension cords are not recommended.

^ Be sure not to overload the transformer or cable if using a higher-wattage fixture to achieve brighter lighting.

^ Do not allow buildup from dirt, leaves and other debris to accumulate on the lens. Keep low voltage light fixtures clean to maintain proper performance of all moving parts and pivot points.

^ Do not allow overhanging branches or foliage to prevent unwanted coverage of light fixtures, Prune back trees and brush as necessary.

For additional information on the full range of mtermatic Malibu Lights, contact: Intermatic Malibu, Intermatic Plaza, Spring Grove, IL 60081-9698, Email address: [email protected]. www.intermatic.com