Tips on How To Properly Install Wiring for Exterior Lighting
Beautiful Outdoor Lighting
Exterior lighting, when done right, highlights the unique architecture. Exterior lighting can be strategically placed to highlight features of your house, plants as well as illuminate paths. The difference between interior and exterior lights is that in interior lighting the wiring is well protected inside the facades of the housing whereas in exterior lighting, as much as the cables are insulated, they remain exposed to the environment. I am here to give you special tips on how to properly install wiring for exterior lighting.
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DISCLAIMER: Electricity can kill you. We suggest you hire a professional electrician for all electrical needs at your home.
Determine the length and lighting requirements
Put up your lighting fixtures and wiring requirements. Measure and record your measurements. It is advisable that you work with a 10- gauge cable from where the lights begin to where the power outlet is.
Embed the wires
Consider embedding the wires as they cross your lawn, use a flat nosed spade to dig up a trench channel for the wiring and then fill it up with soil. Dig up to at least 8inches deep to avoid damage. Use a junction or burial box or better connectors to prolong the life of your wiring and prevent corrosion.
Use weatherproof outdoor extension leads
In selecting an extension lead or power outlet for your external wiring choose weatherproof appliances. Using the normal switches and sockets can be hazardous and may cause electrocution as well as damage your external lighting. Using waterproof extension leads prolongs the life of your external lighting appliances as it prevents dust, dirt, and liquids from entering by creating a watertight seal. Ensure the power outlet you choose is well rated to withstand the outdoor environment.
Position the outdoor extension
Position the outdoor extension closely such that you can drill a hole in the wall of your house and easily connect the outdoor power source to an interior power source. An exterior power source only dedicated for the exterior lighting will reduce the wiring needed to connect to internal power sources and the need to channel the wiring through windows. Your external power source should have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
Connect the transformer for exterior lighting
After connecting the exterior power source connect the transformer by running the wiring for exterior lighting up to the outdoor extension lead that has a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). This safety feature protects the users and the whole circuit from short-circuiting. Strip the tips off the plastic insulation half an inch at the tips. Slide the bare tips to the terminals of the transformer. Tighten the screws to hold tight the bare tips.
Install the light fixtures
Install and ensure the light fixtures are working properly. Measure using your eyes to make sure they are tilted in the right angles. Confirm the light fixtures are working when the power source is on. If it does not light up please check your wiring and connectors making sure each joint is well connected. If none of your lighting appliances lights up chances are your power outlet or transformer is not working.
Wiring for the exterior is a simple straightforward process. You can do it yourself or have an expert do it for you to ensure safety and beauty in your home at night.
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