INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW:
- CONNECTIONS ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR SYSTEM:
We use brass, heat shrink permanent waterproof connectors (ACE
CONNECTORS) for every splice. We do not use gel-filled connectors
or pierce-type connectors. These connectors ultimately will
break down and cause system failure or could possibly result
in a fire. DO NOT SKIMP ON CONNECTIONS. Protect yourself by
insisting only on using ACE CONNECTORS.
- VOLTAGE IS IMPORTANT: 12 volt systems operate ideally
between 10.8 to 12.0 volts. Lower voltage than 10.8 will result
in dim lights. Over 12.0 volts will significantly reduce bulb
life. Very few people understand this and how to design a system
for proper voltage delivery. WE DO!
- BIGGER TRANSFORMERS DON'T SOLVE DIM LIGHT PROBLEMS:
Most lighting installers try to solve problems of dim lights
or prematurely burnt-out bulbs by throwing a bigger or different
transformer at the problem, charging you extra. This is not
a transformer issue, this is a voltage delivery issue that is
NOT solved by a bigger capacity or different type of transformer.
These problems are solved by designing each cable run for proper
voltage delivery.
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- NOT ALL TRANSFORMERS ARE THE SAME: UL 1838 safety rated
transformers with 12 volt side fuse protection, 15 volt/25 amp
maximum circuit output and stainless steel cases are the only
SAFE transformers. If it does not have the UL 1838 listing,
it is not safe to power your lighting system. Transformers that
deliver more than 15 volts, though popular with many lighting
installers because they can run more lights on longer cables,
are not deemed safe by UL. It may also cost less to purchase
a transformer from the home centers, but they do not have the
proper fusing and safety features required. DO NOT SKIMP ON
THE TRANSFORMER!
- WIRE SIZE IS IMPORTANT:Most installers use the smallest
cable they can get away with to save $. Proper cable size is critical to
insure proper voltage delivery & proper protection
against increased power draw. Cable smaller than #12 is unacceptable. We use only #12, #10 & #8 low-voltage,
direct-burial wire for our lighting systems.
- LED's: Are available and in our opinion are the wave
of the not so distant future. Keep in mind there are only limited
voltages & beam patterns available so it may not be possible
to duplicate many effects achievable with standard 12 volt bulbs.
LED's cost significantly more as well. Though they last longer,
costs for the time being will be significantly higher.
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