People are beginning to see the major benefits in using LED landscape lights over the typical halogen systems. Although the upfront costs are higher, the benefits are greater:

• 80% less energy used (replace 20 watt halogens with 3 watt LED)
• No bulbs to change
• Last 8-10 years Plus
• Smaller transformers = less draw on energy
• Smaller gauge wire

Visit our LED Facts Page for more information.

There are a few basic tips for saving energy with your low voltage landscape lighting system. The most common automation control option is the use of a timer. Timers are mechanical or digital (a huge selection is available). The ability to set the on and off times are excellent for operating the lighting only during the times you need them on. You set your time and walk away until you need to adjust them. The digital timer goes a step further by allowing you to (1) set it for daylights savings (automatically), (2) set vacation settings and(3) it has a battery backup. If you lose power, the digital timer keeps time so you will not have to reset the timer in such a case.

Another option is the photocell which will automatically turn on at dusk. Some will turn on at dusk and turn off at dawn which is perfect for an area that needs to be light throughout the night. I typically use these on commercial sights like hotels, commercial shopping centers, etc. For my residential clients who want the “on at dusk feature” I use a photocell timer; it turns of at dusk but you are able to set the off time to dawn, 2 hours, 4 hours or 6 hours.

For the more technical client there are Home Control Automation systems enabling you to remotely control exterior and interior lights. Adjustable for security and entertainment functions indoors and out. Home automation has become almost standard in green home building and allows the client to have the ultimate control over all of their lighting and it can be done with controls in your home and via the Internet when you are away.

These are a few simple options to help us better utilize our energy resources. For more energy tips I recommend you view our LED facts to learn how your can save and instant 80% in energy costs.

Maintenance:

Keep in mind, your landscape lighting system needs to be given just a bit of attention in order to run at optimal levels; just like your car.

• Replace all 12v landscape light bulbs – get a routine and change all bulbs at the same time every year. Or, consider led landscape lighting (lasts 50,000 or 10 years without bulbs).
• Repair wires – be sure to communicate with your landscaper in the case of cut wires. Sometimes they don’t realize they’ve cut a wire or they do know and make the repair themselves (not always using the correct wire or connectors).
• Check transformers to ensure all is well – breakers are working correctly and connections are tight.
• Trim landscaping overgrowth around lights – get the most out of the lights you have.
• Be sure to straighten and/or redirect lights to shine where you like (they get knocked over and turned around).

This preventative maintenance will keep your landscape lighting system consistently performing as new!