Landscape lighting systems: 120 or 12 volts?

SNOC manufactures LINE VOLTAGE and LOW VOLTAGE landscape lighting systems. Both have certain economic and performance advantages and the choice often depends on the application.

LINE VOLTAGE SYSTEMS (120 volts)

Line voltage systems are those that operate at standard voltage. All installations must conform to the requirements of national and local electrical codes.

Line voltage circuits, though, can accommodate much higher loads (typically 1,400 watts per circuit) over much greater distances without having to worry about voltage drop. SNOC manufactures an extensive array of decorative line voltage fixtures for accent lighting and area lighting.

LOW VOLTAGE SYSTEMS (12 volts)

At the heart of SNOC low voltage systems is a power console (transformer) that converts standard line voltage (120 volts) to 12 volts and incorporates safety features that virtually eliminate any risk of electrical shock.

Ease of installation is another huge benefit : simply connect the main power cable to the transformer terminal, lay the cable in the garden where you intend to bury it and follow some very simple instructions to connect the lighting fixtures. There is no need to install expensive waterproof boxes and electrical piping in the ground.

For burying, the wire can easily be concealed in flower beds by hiding it in the mulch. If the wire circuit passes through grassy areas, simply make a gap of 2 to 3 inches using a shovel or a half-moon, place the wire there and replace the peat above.

Find out how to do a complete installation at home by watching our explanatory video: