Transformers are the most important part of an outdoor landscape lighting system as they supply power to the lights. Some signs that a transformer is not working properly include flickering lights, dim lights, or the lights simply not turning on at all.
A previous post discussed some common reasons for transformer failure such as natural wear-and-tear, loose connections, and overloading. The same blog post also offered some quick solutions to these common issues.
This blog post offers a general step-by-step solution to try out when transformers aren’t functioning properly and offers tips on how to protect transformers and ensure that they will always keep the lights on.
Quick General Guide to Troubleshooting Low-Voltage Transformers for Outdoor Landscape Lighting Systems
The below serves as a quick reference to finding the root of the problem and resetting a transformer. Refer to the manufacturer’s guide or the low-voltage transformer’s instruction manual for more specific help for troubleshooting a particular low-voltage transformer.
- Inspect the low-voltage transformer for any signs of damage, wear-and-tear, burnt-out components, or overheating. Replace any damaged parts.
- Confirm that the connections to the transformer are tight and haven’t disconnected. Tighten any loose connections.
- Calculate electrical load to confirm that the transformer isn’t being overloaded with too many lights. Upgrade to a bigger transformer or add another transformer to handle the necessary electrical load.
- Check voltage output to ensure that the transformer is working properly and is dispersing the right voltage to the lights.
- Ensure proper grounding of the low-voltage transformer.
4 Tips to Protect Low-Voltage Transformers from Harm
While it’s nice to know what to do in case transformers go haywire, it is even better to try to prevent such disastrous issues in the first place.
- Cleaning: Regular inspection and cleaning of the transformers can greatly reduce the chances of damage to the transformer.
- Protection: Keep transformers protected from harsh weather conditions that can damage it. Place them in weatherproof boxes or ensure that it has some overhead protection to stop water ingress or rust from occurring.
- A Balanced Load: Transformers should never operate beyond 80% of their capacity. If the electrical load is not enough for one transformer, get a bigger one or install additional transformers.
- Proper Installation: Transformers need to be properly installed in order to perform well. Refer to manufacturer’s guides to ensure proper installation of the transformer. In doing so, the transformer will perform at an optimal level and the outdoor landscape lighting system will not have any problems.
By protecting the low-voltage transformer, the outdoor landscape lighting system will be able to light the way for as long as possible.
Shop Low Voltage Transformers at LightCh8in
A low-voltage transformer that is operating at an optimal level will ensure that an outdoor landscape lighting system is turned on and functioning as it should.
Sign up for a free LightCh8in account or log into your account to shop a wide selection of low-voltage transformers for outdoor landscape lighting. Our low-voltage transformers come in a variety of different sizes, cores, and features such as built in astronomical timers, constructed from heavy duty stainless steel, photocells, and more. These low-voltage outdoor landscape lighting transformers are ideal for any sized outdoor landscape lighting project and integral to turning an ordinary outdoor space into an extraordinary one.