Landscape Contractor
Choosing the Right Transformer for Your Landscape Lighting Job
The crucial component to changing your outdoor space with landscape lighting? A landscape lighting transformer. Low voltage transformers are the unsung heroes behind captivating landscape lighting designs.
Step 1
Select the right fixtures for each application in your lighting design.
Step 2
Add the VA* (volt-amperage) value of each fixture to get the total VA of the system.
Step 3
The total VA determines the amount of wattage needed from the transformer.
A transformer provides (12V) voltage for low voltage landscape lights and as such, is an essential component of any outdoor lighting system. Think of a transformer as the bridge that connects standard 120V household power to the (12V) voltage required for landscape lights.
Landscape transformers ensure outdoor lights operate in the proper range for the LED light modules, safeguarding your system’s integrity for years to come. To get the most out of your landscape lighting, it is essential to invest in a high-quality transformer that meets your specific needs. A transformer is like the heart of a landscape lighting system, powering multiple wire runs of lights and controlling the on/off functionality of the system.
Understanding Your Project Needs
With safety, energy efficiency, and the possibility of future expansions in mind, choosing the right transformer is crucial. By understanding specific needs, factoring in wattage requirements, and focusing on quality, you can select the best transformer and controls for each installation.
Calculate Your Voltage Drop
Utilize the voltage drop calculation below to select the appropriate cable gauge and to determine the voltage that will be delivered to the last fixture on your wire run. This calculation should be done on each cable run to ensure safe and effective operation.
Voltage Drop = (2 x Length of Cable x Total VA on Run) / Cable Constant
End Fixture Voltage = Transformer Tap Voltage – Voltage Drop
Length of Cable – The length in feet of an individual wire run.
Total VA on Run – The total VA of all fixtures that will be installed on an individual cable run.
Cable Constant – Predetermined value (see chart to the right). We recommend starting with 12 gauge and adjusting to a larger cable if necessary.
End Fixture Voltage – The outcome of this equation (above) should be greater than 10V to ensure effective operation.
Transformer Tap Voltage – Varies by transformer and can be 12V, 13V, 14V or 15V.
Note: We don't accept responsibility for any misuses or misunderstandings of the wire size calculations. We always recommend utilizing a voltmeter to confirm your calculations.
The total VA value of the system should not exceed the wattage value of the transformer
This example references Kichler integrated LED fixtures and LED bulbs. The VA for each product or lamp is listed with the product specs.
Kichler’s portfolio of landscape lighting transformers includes options for any professional landscape lighting system – from a simple lighting application to a sophisticated design.
Selecting the Best Transformer and Controls for Your Client
Once you have determined the proper wattage or size transformer for your application, it is time to choose the transformer model and controls you will need.
Our Smart Control Transformer is designed with angled terminal blocks for easier wire connects and heavy-duty, stainless-steel construction ideal for outdoor environments.
Controlled with the Kichler Connects™ app, the Kichler Smart Control Transformer offers power monitoring and fault detection, a manual mode setting for easy set-up and a dusk to dawn timer setting. It also offers the flexibility to design and schedule up to three separate lighting zones, giving homeowners a variety of ways to customize and control the areas they want to illuminate.
The Kichler Connects app also simplifies transformer installation in several ways. Because everything is controlled through the app, transformer accessories aren't needed. It also enables voice commands to control an outdoor environment from a smartphone, tablet, or voice-controlled home device such as Amazon® Alexa® or Google Home™.
When a Traditional Transformer Might Work Best If reliable Wi-Fi isn’t available, a traditional transformer might be the best option paired with either a photocell or digital timer that doesn’t require an internet connection.
How to automate the on/off sequence of landscape lighting Another consideration to review with a client is how to automate the on/off sequence of their landscape lighting. Some questions you might want to review with your client are:
Do you want to control your landscape lights by different zones and have Wi-Fi access? If so, the Smart Control Transformer is a great choice.
Do you have Wi-Fi and want to control via an app or voice control? Select a transformer and the Smart Control Timer.
Do you want to have lighting that comes on at dusk and turns off at dawn? A photocell might be the best choice.
Do you want to have lights that come on in the evening and go off after a few hours? A traditional mechanical or digital timer might be the best option.
Questions? We’re here to help.
Reach out to our Technical Support at (866) 558-5706 Monday – Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET or email us at: techsupport@kichler.com.
Landscape Layout & Design
Need help with your landscape lighting layout? We can help with that. Visit LightProRewards.com to download the Layout & Design Request Form. Make sure to provide any drawings or pictures related to the job with your request. We'll provide you with a bill of materials and a finished layout free of charge, just for being a LightPro Reward member.
Ready to get started?
Shop Kichler Transformers
Shop Transformer Accessories