LED Garden Lights & Lighting

Mains vs Low Voltage Garden Lighting: An Expert’s Insight

Choosing between mains and low voltage garden lighting is a crucial decision, often asked by our clients. To provide an inside perspective, we turned to Philip Thomson, our seasoned lighting installer with over 100 garden lighting projects under his belt, for his expert opinion on the pros and cons of both systems.

Factors Influencing the Choice

“The choice between mains and low voltage lighting often depends on the specific garden’s size and layout,” says Philip. “While experience plays a significant role in making this decision, there are general guidelines to consider.”

In smaller urban gardens with frequent bed maintenance, Philip recommends a 12-volt system for its safety and installation speed. Low voltage is harmless even if a cable is accidentally cut, and installation is swift without the need for complex junction boxes or cable burying, which are mandatory under Part P regulations for mains systems.

Conversely, in larger gardens with mature trees requiring powerful illumination, a combination of mains and low voltage systems is often ideal. Mains systems are used for high-power needs (over 100 watts), such as tree lighting, while low voltage systems are perfect for planted beds, walkways, and pergolas.

Combining Systems: Planning and Reliability

When integrating both systems, meticulous planning is essential to minimize junction boxes and prevent water ingress. Philip highlights that low voltage lighting is more reliable in wet conditions; a submerged low voltage fitting won’t affect the system, whereas a mains voltage light could cause a system-wide trip.

Though low voltage systems require transformers, increasing initial costs, their reliability and safety make them a worthwhile investment. A common challenge with multiple transformers is the potential for fuse trips. Philip advises using a C type breaker instead of a B type to handle the surge from transformers, a simple yet often overlooked solution.

Personalized Advice and Site Visits

“While I generally prefer low voltage systems for their safety and reliability, a site visit by a qualified technician is crucial before committing to a garden lighting project,” advises Philip. “Each garden is unique, and a professional assessment ensures the best lighting solution tailored to your space.”

To discuss your garden lighting needs or to schedule a site visit, contact us at 07951 412 862 or click here to email us. Let us help you illuminate your garden with the perfect blend of aesthetics, functionality, and safety.