How To Install Outdoor Low Voltage Landscape Lighting

Outdoor low voltage landscape lighting can accentuate the beauty of your home's exterior and enhance safety. It can also extend the enjoyment of your outdoor spaces into the evening hours. Installing low voltage landscape lighting is a DIY project that can be completed in a weekend with the right tools and materials.

Materials Needed

Low voltage transformer
Low voltage lighting fixtures
Low voltage cable
Wire connectors
Electrical tape
Trenching tool
Shovel
Sand
Mulch

Steps

Plan your layout. Determine where you want to place your lighting fixtures and how you want to run the cable. Sketch out a plan to help you visualize the finished project.
Install the transformer. The transformer is the power source for your lighting system. It should be installed in a protected area, such as a garage or basement. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation.
Trench the cable. Use a trenching tool to create a shallow trench for the cable. The trench should be about 6 inches deep and 6 inches wide. Place the cable in the trench and cover it with sand.
Install the lighting fixtures. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the lighting fixtures. Be sure to connect the wires correctly. Use wire connectors and electrical tape to secure the connections.
Add mulch. Spread a layer of mulch around the lighting fixtures to help hide the wires and give your landscape a finished look.

Tips

Use a variety of lighting fixtures to create different effects. For example, use spotlights to highlight specific features of your landscape, and use path lights to illuminate walkways.
Set your lighting system on a timer so that it will automatically turn on and off at specific times.
Inspect your lighting system regularly to make sure that all of the fixtures are working properly.