How to Troubleshoot Low Voltage Landscape Lighting

Low voltage landscape lighting not only makes your home more appealing at night, but it can also make your home safer. Since these lights are exposed to the elements 24 hours a day, they can sometimes develop problems that will prevent them from working. Knowing how to troubleshoot your low voltage landscape lighting can help you keep your home looking great and as safe as possible.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Voltage tester
• Screwdriver

Troubleshooting When the Entire Landscape Lighting System Is Out

1. Test the outlet that the low voltage transformer is plugged into for voltage. If it is wired directly from the electrical panel, check to make sure no breakers are tripped.

2. Check the trip button on the transformer box if it features one.

3. Turn the transformer box over and check to make sure both low voltage wires are still connected to their terminals.

4. Check the transformer to make sure the timer is on and that someone didn't remove the plastic timer clips that turn the system on and off.

5. Check the transformer's photocell if it has one instead of a timer. It may be dirty or another light may be preventing it from coming on at night.

Troubleshooting When Only Select Landscape Lights Are Out

6. Check to make sure the bulb does not have blown filament.

7. Check to make sure the bulb is seated in its socket properly.

8. Check the clamp that connects to the low voltage cable to make sure the copper teeth on the connector are making contact with the wire beneath the insulation.

Tips & Warnings

• If all of the lights are not working after a certain point, the wire may be broken somewhere between the last working light and the first nonworking light.
• Never work on your low voltage landscape lighting when the ground is wet or when it is raining.