Seamlessly set up your outdoor oasis with our low-voltage lighting cables. Ideal for a myriad of outdoor lighting applications, such as uplights, downlights, or hardscape lights, our lighting wire options range from 10 to 16 gauge thickness to meet your demands. Browse the lineup below to complete or extend your setup today.
Lighting Warehouse carries a wide selection of low-voltage outdoor lighting cables and wires, adaptable to your landscape lighting needs. While all of our wires work with low-voltage systems, we provide multiple options to accommodate various needs. Our 16- and 14-gauge options are great picks for standard lighting systems, while our 12- and 10-gauge landscape lighting wires can handle higher currents and more demanding setups. All our low-voltage lighting cable options provide added peace of mind with their sunlight-resistant PVC insulation, which allows the wire to withstand temperatures up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Comparing Low-Voltage Lighting Cable vs. Line Voltage Wire
Beginners and professionals need to be cognizant of the differences between line voltage and low-voltage wiring, as both have their own areas of expertise within an outdoor lighting setup. In short, line voltage is used for fixtures that need more power, such as garages and driveways. Low-voltage outdoor lighting wire, on the other hand, is best suited for a variety of outdoor lighting scenarios, from path and garden lighting to accents and step lights. Low-voltage wire is also meant to be buried underground, making it a more durable option and helping create a seamless look for your outdoor lighting setup.
Find the Perfect Wire Today at Lighting Warehouse
Whether you’re breaking ground on a new lighting system or enhancing your current setup, trust Lighting Warehouse for your illumination needs, from wiring to outdoor bulbs and everything in between. We also ensure safety and efficiency throughout the process with a wide selection of hand tools, power tools, and safety gear. When you need the full suite of outdoor lighting solutions, look no further than Lighting Warehouse to have everything you need.
FAQs on Low-Voltage Lighting Cables
Does low-voltage lighting wire go above or under the ground?
Low-voltage wire can be installed both above and underground. Burying the wire is often preferred for a cleaner look and added protection from inclement weather. One con of burying wires is that detecting and repairing damage can be more difficult.
Can I use low-voltage lighting cables for line voltage applications?
No, low-voltage wire is not suitable for line voltage applications. Our low-voltage lighting wires are equipped to handle your 30-volt or lower lights reliably and safely. Each spool includes exterior lighting wire or cable that is sunlight resistant and comes with essential mounting accessories for easy installation—everything you need to make setting up your landscape lighting as effortless as the flick of a switch.
How do I protect lighting wire from the elements?
Our exterior lighting wire options are rated for outdoor use. To further safeguard from the elements and round out your waterproof landscape lighting setup, consider additional protective measures like conduits, electrical tape, or burying the wire to shield it from environmental damage and keep it in working condition.
Is a special installation required for low-voltage lighting wire?
Our low-voltage wire is easy to install with basic tools. Follow manufacturer spacing, connections, and safety guidelines. Make a comprehensive plan before installation or consult a professional if you require assistance. Choose from our durable, high-performance, low-voltage outdoor lighting wire and cable solutions to bring your favorite spaces to light.
How often should I conduct maintenance on landscape lighting wire?
Lighting maintenance should always involve an inspection of outdoor light wires. If you live in a place where you experience seasonal changes year-round, you should be inspecting in between seasons. Look for exposed wires, a dangerous electrical hazard for you and your lighting system. In addition, some wires might be slowly coming back up to the surface due to inclement weather and erosion. Make sure to rebury these wires to prevent small problems from turning into massive headaches.
What gauge works best for my outdoor light wire setup?
Most systems will utilize a 12/2 wire. However, larger outdoor lighting setups that cover more square footage might need a larger gauge wire, such as 10/2 or even 8/2. However, these are more expensive due to the amount of copper used in order to reduce the chances of a voltage drop over larger distances.
Should I use black or brown wires?
If you’re burying the wires, the color doesn’t matter as much because it won’t be visible. However, there are a few scenarios where the wire will be visible, such as when you need it to go up a tree for better connection to hanging lights or up a wall to connect to a transformer or other fixtures. In these cases, pick the best color that will help blend the wire into its surroundings to maintain the illusion.
How do I connect low-voltage wire to fixtures?
Use waterproof connectors to join the low-voltage wire to your lighting fixtures. Strip the wire ends, insert them into the connector, and secure them tightly for a reliable connection. Read our Lighting Academy guide on installation for the step-by-step procedure.