FAQ
Low-Voltage Brass & Aluminum Alloy Landscape Lights
1. Are these 12V low voltage lights safe for kids and pets?
1. Are these 12V low voltage lights safe for kids and pets?
Absolutely. Our landscape lights run on standard 12V low voltage, far below the dangerous 120V household current. There is almost no electric shock risk, even when fixtures or cables get wet outdoors. No professional electrician or permit is required for DIY installation.
2. What is the difference between solid brass and aluminum fixtures?
2. What is the difference between solid brass and aluminum fixtures?
Solid brass features superior corrosion resistance, especially in coastal/salt-air areas. It develops a natural elegant patina over time and lasts 15–25 years with minimal maintenance. Aluminum is a cost-effective mid-range option with powder-coated finish, suitable for regular residential yards; its service life is about 10–12 years. Scratches on aluminum may cause coating peeling, while brass will not rust easily.
3. Will brass lights rust or turn green?
3. Will brass lights rust or turn green?
Solid brass will not rust. A natural patina (dark/antique tone) will form after long-term outdoor use, which is a normal aesthetic feature, not a defect. Minor green discoloration may occur in extremely humid coastal areas, which is common for brass outdoor products and does not affect performance.
4. What color temperature are these lights? Can I change the bulb?
4. What color temperature are these lights? Can I change the bulb?
All fixtures adopt 2700K/3000K warm white, the most popular tone for residential yards, compliant with DarkSky lighting standards. Most models use replaceable MR16/MR11 bulbs, so you can adjust brightness and beam angle freely.
5. Does this kit include transformer and cable?
5. Does this kit include transformer and cable?
Yes. Every complete kit comes with a matched low voltage transformer, direct burial cable, waterproof connectors and all mounting hardware. No extra parts need to be purchased separately for regular use.
6. How many lights can this transformer support?
6. How many lights can this transformer support?
The matched transformer is designed with 80% load derating per US electrical code. A 150W transformer can safely run up to 15–20 standard fixtures. Do not exceed the maximum load to avoid dimming or transformer overheating.
7. How deep should I bury the low voltage cable?
7. How deep should I bury the low voltage cable?
Per NEC standards, low voltage landscape cable only needs to be buried 6 inches (15cm) underground. No rigid conduit is required, which makes DIY installation much easier.
8. Do I need professional tools or an electrician to install?
8. Do I need professional tools or an electrician to install?
No special tools or licensed electrician are needed. We include detailed step-by-step manuals and quick-connect waterproof connectors. A full set can be installed within 2 hours by one person.
9. What is the HUB wiring system? Is it hard to use?
9. What is the HUB wiring system? Is it hard to use?
The HUB junction box simplifies wiring and greatly reduces voltage drop and connection failures. Just plug each fixture cable into the HUB port directly. It is friendly for beginners and improves the long-term stability of the whole system.
10. Will the lights be damaged by lawn mowers?
10. Will the lights be damaged by lawn mowers?
Our path lights are designed with a height over 14 inches (36cm), higher than regular lawn mowing height. We equip thick metal ground stakes instead of plastic ones for firm fixation and anti-collision.
11. Why are the lights far from the transformer dimmer than the ones nearby?
11. Why are the lights far from the transformer dimmer than the ones nearby?
This is normal voltage drop for long wire runs. Our kits use 14AWG thick cable to minimize this issue. For runs longer than 80ft, we suggest using multi-tap transformers or dividing into separate circuits.
12. My lights flicker or cut off occasionally. What should I do?
12. My lights flicker or cut off occasionally. What should I do?
Most issues are caused by loose connections or water intrusion. Please check the waterproof connectors first. We use gel-filled wire nuts for all connections to prevent corrosion and short circuits in wet conditions.
13. The lights stay on during the day or fail to turn on at night.
13. The lights stay on during the day or fail to turn on at night.
This is usually caused by blocked photocells on the transformer. Wipe the light sensor clean; avoid covering it with plants or debris. If the problem persists, please contact our customer support for replacement.
14. What is the IP rating of these fixtures? Are they waterproof for rain and snow?
14. What is the IP rating of these fixtures? Are they waterproof for rain and snow?
All fixtures are rated IP65, fully dust-tight and resistant to rain, splashing water and sprinklers. In-ground and hardscape lights adopt IP67 for temporary water immersion. They work normally in rain, snow and frost all year round.
15. Can the lights work in freezing winter and snow?
15. Can the lights work in freezing winter and snow?
Yes. The LED chips and internal drivers are tested to work at temperatures from -20°F to 120°F (-29°C ~ 49°C). Snow accumulation on the lens will not damage the fixtures; just clear the snow regularly.
16. Are brass/aluminum lights suitable for coastal areas with salt spray?
16. Are brass/aluminum lights suitable for coastal areas with salt spray?
Solid brass is the best choice for coastal areas with strong salt air, with excellent anti-corrosion performance. Marine-grade aluminum with thick powder coating is also available for coastal use. Regular aluminum is recommended for inland yards only.
17. What is your warranty policy?
17. What is your warranty policy?
Solid brass fixture housings come with lifetime limited warranty. Aluminum housings have a 5-year warranty. LED components, transformers and electrical parts are covered for 5 years. The warranty only applies to the original purchaser and excludes damage from improper installation, man-made destruction or natural disasters.
18. Can I return the products if I am not satisfied? What are the return rules?
18. Can I return the products if I am not satisfied? What are the return rules?
Unused products in original packaging can be returned within 30 days for a full refund. Installed, damaged or customized items are not eligible for return. Return shipping fees and restocking fees may apply per regulations.
19. If one light is broken, can I buy replacement parts separately?
19. If one light is broken, can I buy replacement parts separately?
Yes. We sell separate fixtures, bulbs, cables and connectors. You do not need to replace the whole system for single-part damage.
20. Are these lights DarkSky friendly?
20. Are these lights DarkSky friendly?
Yes. All fixtures adopt full shielded design to eliminate upward light spill, with color temperature ≤3000K, complying with DarkSky guidelines to reduce light pollution.
21. Which fixture should I choose for my yard?
21. Which fixture should I choose for my yard?
Path lights for walkways & driveways; spotlights for trees, walls and flower beds; hardscape lights for fences, retaining walls and deck edges. You can mix different types to build a complete landscape lighting system.
22. Should I choose low voltage wired lights or solar lights?
22. Should I choose low voltage wired lights or solar lights?
12V low voltage lights provide stable brightness, longer lifespan and better dimming/color performance, ideal for main landscape and decorative lighting. Solar lights are easy to install but have limited brightness and battery decay issues, only suitable for basic path lighting. We recommend low voltage for long-term yard use.
AC/DC Low-Voltage Landscape Transformer
1. Is this transformer AC or DC output? What kind of landscape lights does it work with?
1. Is this transformer AC or DC output? What kind of landscape lights does it work with?
This transformer is available in both AC and DC output versions. Traditional 12V halogen lights and most standard low-voltage landscape lights use the AC version. RGB color-changing lights, smart lights and dedicated new LED lights require the DC version. Please check the label of your fixtures before purchase. Do not mix AC and DC systems, which may cause lights to fail or get damaged.
2. How to choose the right wattage? What is the maximum number of lights it can support?
2. How to choose the right wattage? What is the maximum number of lights it can support?
Following industry standards, the total load shall not exceed 80% of the transformer rated power for safety. A regular LED landscape light consumes 3-5W per unit. For example, a 150W transformer can stably support 24 to 40 standard lights. Calculate the total wattage of all your fixtures first to avoid overload, dim lights and overheating.
3. Does it support multi-tap voltage adjustment? What are 12V/13V/14V/15V taps for?
3. Does it support multi-tap voltage adjustment? What are 12V/13V/14V/15V taps for?
This multi-tap transformer provides 12V/13V/14V/15V adjustable outputs. Use 12V for short wire runs. For long runs over 65 feet or dim lights at the far end, switch to 14V/15V to compensate voltage drop and keep consistent brightness.
4. What is the input voltage? Is it compatible with US household power?
4. What is the input voltage? Is it compatible with US household power?
Input voltage is standard 120V AC, fully compatible with US household outlets. Plug and play, no extra adapter needed.
5. Can it be used outdoors? What is its waterproof rating? Is it safe in rain and strong sunlight?
5. Can it be used outdoors? What is its waterproof rating? Is it safe in rain and strong sunlight?
Designed for outdoor use with IP65 waterproof rating, resistant to rain, splashing water and strong sunlight. Please install it in a well-ventilated area. Do not bury the unit or cover it with snow/debris to prevent waterlogging.
6. Does it come with photocell and timer? Can the lights turn on and off automatically?
6. Does it come with photocell and timer? Can the lights turn on and off automatically?
Built-in photocell and timer. The lights will turn on automatically at dusk and off at dawn. You can also set custom schedules manually. Please keep the photocell unobstructed from trees or shelters.
7. How deep should I bury the low voltage cable? Do I need to use rigid conduit?
7. How deep should I bury the low voltage cable? Do I need to use rigid conduit?
Per NEC standards, 12V low-voltage cables only need to be buried 6 inches (15cm) deep. No rigid conduit is required for easy DIY installation. For areas with heavy foot traffic or vehicles, bury deeper or add protective sleeves.
8. The lights get dim on long wire runs, how to fix this issue?
8. The lights get dim on long wire runs, how to fix this issue?
This is a common voltage drop issue for long wire runs.
Solutions:
1. Switch to 14V/15V tap on multi-tap transformer;
2. Use thicker cables (14AWG or thicker);
3. Adopt HUB star wiring instead of daisy chain;
4. Add an extra transformer for extremely long runs. We recommend the maximum run length under 300 feet.
9. Do I need special tools to connect wires? How to use waterproof connectors?
9. Do I need special tools to connect wires? How to use waterproof connectors?
Equipped with waterproof quick connectors and gel-filled terminals (some tool-free). Make sure all connections are fully sealed after wiring. Use waterproof tape for extra protection in humid areas to avoid short circuits.
10. No lights turn on after plugging in, what should I do?
10. No lights turn on after plugging in, what should I do?
Troubleshoot step by step:
1. Reset tripped GF outlet or circuit breaker;
2. Re-seat the power plug firmly;
3. Check if the internal fuse is blown;
4. Inspect loose or water-damaged connections. Contact support if the problem persists.
11. The lights flicker randomly, what causes this problem?
11. The lights flicker randomly, what causes this problem?
Common causes: Loose, corroded or water-damaged connectors; transformer overloaded; thin/overlong cables causing unstable voltage. Re-seal connections, reduce total loads or switch to higher voltage taps.
12. The lights stay on in daytime or fail to turn on at night.
12. The lights stay on in daytime or fail to turn on at night.
Photocell issues:
1. Clean dust, leaves or obstacles covering the sensor;
2. Relocate the sensor away from permanent shade;
3. Replace defective photocell if worn out.
13. The transformer gets hot and makes buzzing noise, is this normal?
13. The transformer gets hot and makes buzzing noise, is this normal?
Slight warmth and low hum are normal during operation. Overheating or loud buzzing means overload, poor ventilation or internal failure. Cut off power immediately, reduce loads or improve ventilation. Return for replacement if issues remain.
14. What is the service life and warranty of this transformer?
14. What is the service life and warranty of this transformer?
With proper use and rated load, the service life is 10-15 years. Warranty: 5 years for main electrical components, 1 year for timers and photocells. Please check the warranty details on the page.
15. Can I add more landscape lights later?
15. Can I add more landscape lights later?
You can add more lights later. Recalculate total wattage to keep the load under 80% of the rating. Add an extra transformer for extremely long branches.
