How to Reduce Costs by Switching to Low Voltage Lighting

Introduction

Switching to low voltage lighting is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy costs in your home or business. Low voltage lighting refers to lighting systems that operate on 12 or 24 volts, compared to the 120 or 277 volts used by standard lighting. The lower operating voltage allows low voltage lighting to consume far less energy. Making the switch can lead to significant long-term savings on your electricity bills.

In this comprehensive guide, I will explain what low voltage lighting is, its key benefits, where to use it, and tips for choosing the right low voltage lighting system. I will also provide a cost analysis to demonstrate the potential savings from switching to this energy efficient lighting.

What is Low Voltage Lighting?

Low voltage lighting refers to lighting systems that operate on 12 or 24 volts compared to the 120 or 277 volts used by standard lighting. Some key things to know:

• Low voltage lighting transforms high voltage from the outlet to a low voltage at the lighting fixture. This is done via a transformer.

• The most common types are 12V systems using a MR16 halogen bulb and 12V LED systems. 24V versions are also available.

• Low voltage lighting requires wiring from the transformer to each lighting fixture. Many systems use low voltage cable rather than standard electrical wires.

• Requires a low voltage transformer to step down the household voltage. The transformer can power multiple lights.

• LED and halogen bulbs are commonly used. Incandescent bulbs are not suitable for low voltage lighting.

The lower operating voltage allows low voltage lighting to consume about 80% less energy compared to standard 120-volt systems.

Benefits of Low Voltage Lighting

There are many excellent reasons to consider switching to low voltage lighting:

• Lower energy costs - Uses 80% less electricity than standard 120V lighting. This saves a lot on your electricity bill.

• Long bulb life - LEDs can last up to 50,000 hours. Halogens last 2,000 to 4,000 hours. Less frequent bulb replacement needed.

• Cooler temperatures - Runs cooler than standard lighting, reducing fire risks. LED and halogen bulbs also produce less heat.

• Smaller fixtures - The lower voltage allows for smaller gauge wires and fixtures. Good for tight spaces.

• Dimmable - Most low voltage lighting is dimmable to control ambiance and further reduce energy use.

• Flexible placement - The wiring can handle longer runs than 120V lighting, giving you more options for fixture placement.

• Better safety - 12V is generally safer to work with than 120V systems.

• Wide variety - Low voltage lighting comes in many styles: spotlights, floodlights, recessed lighting, cabinet lighting, outdoor lighting, and more. Lots of design options!

For most homes and businesses, low voltage lighting offers significant cost savings and excellent performance compared to standard voltage systems. The benefits easily justify the initial investment.

Where to Use Low Voltage Lighting

Some of the most common and effective applications for low voltage lighting include:

Landscape Lighting

Low voltage outdoor lighting can beautifully illuminate pathways, gardens, patios and other outdoor living spaces without consuming much energy. The smaller fixtures are discreet and won't detract from the landscape. Dimmable and timer functions allow you to control the ambiance.

Task and Accent Lighting

Low voltage lighting works extremely well as task lighting under cabinets and shelves. The focused beam provides excellent illumination precisely where you need it. It also excels as accent lighting to highlight artwork and architectural features.

Recessed and Track Lighting

Low voltage recessed and track lighting systems are available to provide general or task lighting in any room. The smaller profile fixtures fit nicely into ceilings. Track systems make it easy to highlight different spaces.

Cabinet and Furniture Lighting

Built-in low voltage lighting is a great way to illuminate the insides of cabinets, display cases, shelves, and other furniture. The compact LEDs and wiring neatly integrate into the furniture.

Security Lighting

Low voltage spotlights aimed at entryways provide excellent security lighting. Dimmers and motion sensors help control when the lights activate to further conserve energy.

Low voltage lighting works extremely well in these and many other residential, commercial and industrial applications. The energy efficiency, design flexibility, small size and specialized beams make it a go-to lighting choice for many situations.

Tips for Choosing a Low Voltage Lighting System

Here are some important considerations when selecting low voltage lighting:

• Lighting Needs - Decide if you need task lighting, ambient lighting or both. This will help determine the fixture styles and beam spreads.

• Location - Consider the spaces where you want lighting. Indoor and outdoor options are available.

• Light Source - LED or halogen. LED for maximum efficiency, halogen if you prefer the warmer light color.

• Wattage - For LEDs, select appropriate wattages based on the amount of light needed. Use the lowest wattage possible.

• Beam Angle - Narrow spotlights or wide floodlights. Match the beam angle to the application.

• Transformer - Size it according to the wattage of all bulbs it will power. Centralize it for easier access.

• Dimmer - Get a compatible dimmer switch to control light levels. Useful for ambiance and saving additional energy.

• Fixture Style - Low voltage lighting is available in nearly any fixture style: recessed, track, rail, pendant, accent, and more.

• Smart Options - Many systems offer lighting controls like dimmers, timers, motion sensors and WiFi connectivity.

• Wiring - Use the appropriate low voltage cable for your system's voltage and wiring run lengths.

Doing some advance planning will help you select the right low voltage lighting system for your specific needs and application.

Cost Analysis - Potential Savings

Here is an example cost analysis comparing a 120-volt halogen lighting system to a 12-volt LED low voltage system:

120-Volt Halogen System

• 10 x 50W halogen bulbs = 500W total
• Electricity rate = $0.12/kWh
• 500 watts x 8 hours/day x 365 days/year = 1,460 kWh/year
• Electricity cost = 1,460 kWh x $0.12/kWh = $175/year

12-Volt LED Low Voltage System

• 10 x 5W LED bulbs = 50W total
• 50 watts x 8 hours/day x 365 days/year = 146 kWh/year
• 146 kWh x $0.12/kWh = $18/year

By switching to the low voltage LED system, you save $157 per year in energy costs! The savings add up quickly.

Over a 5 year period, you would save $785 in electricity costs with the low voltage LED lights. This provides a fast payback on the initial investment in the low voltage lighting system. The savings continue each additional year you use the LED lights.

Conclusion

Low voltage lighting provides significant long-term savings by reducing electricity consumption by up to 80% compared to standard voltage systems. The lower voltage enables smaller, cooler lighting fixtures that can be used in many residential and commercial applications. LED and halogen low voltage bulbs last for years with minimal maintenance. With a wide selection of fixture styles and system options, low voltage lighting can be installed nearly anywhere while providing superior light quality and energy efficiency. By following the guidance in this article, you can choose the optimal low voltage lighting system for your particular needs and begin saving on energy costs.