Landscape Lighting FAQ

How do I clean a Landscape Lighting fixture?

Clean the fixture to remove all debris - use soap and water if necessary. Calcium Lime Remover (CLR) can be used to remove lime deposits from lenses.

How can I protect the finish of the Landscape Lighting fixtures?

A silicone spray can be used to help protect the finish on all fixtures.In coastal areas, some contractors use Plasti-Dip, a clear flexible coating which can be used to protect the fixtures from the effects of the salt air.

How often should I change the lamps?

Change the lamps at least once a year - twice a year may be required depending on homeowner's usage. When changing lamps, use a corrosion preventing compound on the base of the bayonet - based sockets as well as the pins on the MR 16's.

What’s the best way to protect sockets and components?

Where you have metal sockets or components, use a corrosion preventative compound to help prevent corrosion.

What are some practical tips to make my job maintaining the Landscape Lighting fixtures easier?

1. Straighten fixtures and remove or cut back excess plant growth.

2. Make a diagram and list of equipment for your landscape design and tape it to the back of the transformer panel.

What size cable should I use?

 

To minimize voltage drop you must select the correct wire gauge and lay out your system so the length of the cable is shortest possible.  The length of the run and the total number of watts (add-up the wattage of all the fixtures that will be on the run) determin the size of the wire needed. Quick Chart Maximum Guidelines: Maximum use for 16-gauge cable is no more than 150 watts or 100 feet Maximum use for 14-gauge cable is no more than 200 watts or 150 feet Maximum use for 12-gauge cable is no more than 250 watts or 200 feet Maximum use for 10-gauge cable is no more than 360 watts or 300 feet Back to Low Voltage Cable
Low Voltage Cable Size Chart
Total cable length (ft)	Max Watts on 1 Run
	#16  wire	#14  wire	#12  wire	#10  wire
300	NA	NA	0-60	0-90
200	NA	0-60	90	130
100	75	120	175	275
80	95	140	250*	350
50	150	215*	250*	360*
40	155*	215*	250*	360*
30	155*	215*	250*	360*
20	155*	215*	250*	360*
10	155*	215*	250*	360*
*maximum wire size