Choosing the Right Outdoor Light Cable
Choosing the right cable for your outdoor lighting project may seem like a minor detail, but it’s an important one. It can make a big difference in the quality of your lighting and the safety of your installation.
Start by turning off your transformer and ensuring that it’s completely plugged out.
UF-B Cable
When it comes to electrical wiring for outdoor applications, you have a few different options for wire types. Indoor electrical wiring uses non-metallic sheathed cable, called NM for short, but outdoor applications require a different type of sheathed wire to better withstand the environment and other factors like UV light exposure.
This type of sheathed cable is known as UF-B or underground feeder cable. It carries power from residential and commercial buildings to outside constructions, including the wiring that supports outdoor lighting. UF-B cables are also commonly used to connect garages and other outdoor structures to interior wiring, though you need to make sure your local codes allow it.
UF-B is permitted for direct burial, but you’re usually better off running it through conduit. This will protect outdoor light cable the wiring from physical injury and give you easy access to it if needed for repairs or upgrades.
When shopping for UF-B, make sure you select the right size to meet your needs. You’ll want a wire with enough conductors to handle the amount of electricity you plan to use, and make sure it’s rated for your desired temperature range. Also, check your local codes for minimum buried depths or other requirements. A qualified electrician can help ensure you choose the right UF-B for your project.
THWN Cable
THWN wire is a great choice for outdoor electrical projects. Its heat resistance and water resistance make it ideal for use in a variety of applications. However, when using THWN for conduit-free underground installations, you should ensure that it is dual-rated as THHN/THWN-2. If it is only rated as THHN, it will not last long in the conduit underground. The stranded conductors in thwn wire also offer more flexibility compared to THHN, making it an ideal option for high-flex applications like wiring motors.
Choosing the right construction cable for your project can be confusing and challenging. The best way to select the appropriate wire gauge for your application is to consult your local electrical codes and regulations or ask a professional electrician. The THWN wire available at Nassau National Cable can help you get the most out of your outdoor electrical system.
Unlike Romex, which contains multiple insulated conductors, THHN is single-insulated and has the ability to carry large amounts of electricity. It is a popular choice among contractors for running power to outlets and lights in homes and buildings, and it passes most building codes. THHN is available in a wide range of sizes, and the dual-rated versions at WesBell Electronics are suitable for wet locations. You can also find THWN wire in different colors, including black, white, and gray to match your decor.
Low-Voltage Cable
Low voltage landscape lighting systems provide a safe, practical solution for homeowners who want to enjoy their outdoor spaces after dark. These lighting systems use a transformer to step down 120V of standard household current to landscape wire connectors waterproof 12V, making it easier for non-electricians to install themselves and reducing the potential for shocks and fire hazards.
To determine what gauge wire is needed for a specific lighting system, first consider the total wattage of all your light fixtures. Then, map out your yard and mark where each fixture will be placed. Next, create a wiring diagram for your lights. This will help you plan the best route for your wires. You can use either stranded or solid low voltage landscape wire. The stranded wire is composed of multiple small wires twisted together and offers more flexibility, while the solid wire has a single wire and is better for straight runs.
Once you have your layout, purchase the appropriate cable and begin connecting your lights to the main transformer. Make sure you’re using the right sized transformer for your project. You’ll need a higher wattage transformer if you’re going to be running larger lights, or more than one lighting fixture per circuit. Once your wiring is complete, test your lights and make any necessary adjustments to the positioning of fixtures.
Wiring
Outdoor lighting adds a beautiful accent to your home’s exterior while also providing safety benefits. It lights your way to the door, prevents tripping and slipping in the dark, and helps you deter people with ill intent from approaching your property. However, outdoor lighting requires more than just a light fixture to operate effectively. You also need a proper wiring system that is able to withstand the elements. That’s why you need to choose the right cable for your lighting needs.
To get started, first determine the voltage requirements of your lighting system. You can do this by checking the label of your light fixture or measuring the distance between the power terminal and your fused connection unit. Then, wire a 1mm2 two-core-and-earth cable from the fused connection unit to your light fixture. If your fixture has a switch, wire it to a four-terminal junction box where you can line separate switch drop and light supply wires.
Once you have the cable in place, connect the switches to it using DryConn waterproof connectors. These can withstand up to 60 pounds of pressure. Next, crimp on the connections to create a permanent seal that won’t come undone. You can use a crimping tool or simply twist the connections together. If you choose to use a crimping tool, select one with a heavy duty ratchet for maximum durability.
