energy efficient landscape lighting

Energy Efficiency thru Low Voltage Systems

Sunday, June 21st, 2009 posted under Landscape Lighting Articles | No Comments

Energy efficiency is a key issue in today’s economy.  Federal data places New Jersey’s residential rates at the 9th highest in the nation. In addition to utility shut offs rising 15% in the last year alone, studies have shown electric rates have doubled since 2004. 

A key benefit to Low Voltage systems is its energy efficacy and safety.  LV operating expenses are approximately 1/3 less than line voltage.  With LV systems there are an array of lamps, in different low wattage and beam spreads which allow for more precise and interesting lighting effects while consuming much less energy than line voltage systems.  It is safer to operate, cable lines are easy to reposition, the fixtures are unobtrusive, and systems are designed for wet locations.  

While a LV system might be a safer choice for a homeowner, it is still recommended to have it professionally installed.  Key issues such as voltage drop, photometrics, and a landscape’s growth pattern are all aspects that should be considered when planning and executing a system’s layout.  Working with a lighting designer will help organize and prioritize all the current and future plans of a home’s expansion.  


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