Low voltage lighting has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its energy efficiency and design flexibility compared to traditional 120V lighting. However, low voltage lighting also has some drawbacks that should be considered before installing a system.
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Higher Upfront Cost
The first disadvantage of low voltage lighting is its higher initial cost. The fixtures themselves are more expensive than standard 120V fixtures. You also need a transformer to step down the household current to 12V. This adds to the total system cost. The wiring is also more expensive since it needs to be smaller gauge wire capable of handling the lower voltages.
While the energy savings can make up for some of these costs over time, the upfront price tag is higher than alternative lighting options. Homeowners need to plan for this additional expense when budgeting for a low voltage system.
More Complex Installation
Installing a low voltage lighting system is more complex than traditional 120V lighting:
- The transformer must be correctly sized and located.
- The low voltage wiring network needs to be run from the transformer to each lighting fixture.
- The smaller gauge wire is more difficult to work with than standard 120V wiring.
For DIYers without electrical experience, the complexity can be frustrating. Hiring an electrical contractor adds even more to the total project cost. This installation challenge is a definite drawback for many homeowners trying to install low voltage lighting themselves.
Higher Risk of Voltage Drop
Voltage drop is a much bigger concern with 12V systems compared to 120V lighting. Voltage drop occurs as power travels through a wire, resulting in dimmer lights the farther you get from the transformer. With longer wire runs to lights, the voltage drop can become noticeable.
To counteract voltage drop, you need to use thicker wire. But this costs more and is harder to work with. Voltage drop also limits the usable distance from the transformer. In large homes, more transformers may be needed to keep voltage drop within acceptable levels.
Fewer Fixture Options
While low voltage fixture options have increased over the years, traditional 120V lighting still provides the widest selection of styles and finishes. Low voltage lighting is relatively limited in terms of aesthetic choices for fixtures and lamps.
Homeowners that want a specific decorative look may have difficulty finding low voltage fixtures to match. Of course, the options continue to improve as low voltage lighting gains popularity. But the selection is still constrained compared to 120V lighting fixtures.
Shorter Bulb Life Span
Incandescent bulbs used in low voltage lighting have a shorter average life span than 120V bulbs. This is due to the higher temperature of the filament required to produce enough light at the lower 12V power level. You may need to replace low voltage bulbs more frequently.
LED and halogen low voltage bulbs can last much longer, but they are more expensive. Accounting for the ongoing cost of bulbs should be factored into the overall system cost.
Safety Risks
While low voltage lighting is generally safer to work with than 120V lighting, there are some risks to be aware of:
- Electrical arcing can still occur when connecting wires, posing a fire hazard.
- Damage to low voltage wiring insulation can cause shocks or shorts.
- Penetrating outdoor low voltage wires with gardening equipment can produce sparks and shocks.
Safety precautions are still required when installing low voltage systems yourself or performing maintenance.
Conclusion
Low voltage lighting provides the benefits of energy efficiency, design flexibility, and better light control. However, the disadvantages like high upfront cost and complex installation mean that low voltage lighting may not make sense for every homeowner’s needs and budget.
Carefully weighing the pros and cons against your specific lighting goals will help determine if low voltage is the right solution for your unique situation.