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A new home addition or remodeling project gives you seemingly endless lighting options. When you hire a residential electrician to handle the wiring, you’ll have to consider line or low voltage lighting. The decision impacts lighting quality, capabilities, and eco-friendliness. Check out the guide below to help you decide between these two lighting options. 

Low Voltage vs. Line Voltage Lighting

Low Voltage

Low voltage lighting uses a transformer to cut down the amount of energy that typically flows through an electrical line. Usually, it’s reduced from 120-277 volts to 12-24 volts. An easy way to understand volts is to think of them like water pressure in a plumbing system. The higher the volts, the higher the pressure, and the higher the energy use.

Popular uses for low voltage lighting are in displays or where it can be difficult for a residential electrician to wire and operate a line voltage system — like in older buildings. It’s also commonly used in landscaping lighting, pendant lights, and recessed lighting.

A low voltage system is perfect for lowering your energy use. However, you will face some limitations. Lighting can only be installed so far from the transformer before the system won’t work. There’s also a limited load capacity, and a residential electrician will have to do more extensive installation work because of the transformer. However, because less power is used, it’s a safer lighting option and the perfect green solution to use less energy at home.

Line Voltage Lighting

residential electricianLine voltage lighting is the standard wiring system. It uses 120-277 volts, on average, and doesn’t require a transformer to power light fixtures. Line voltage lighting can be used almost anywhere that low voltage lighting is being used. Lighting can be placed anywhere that wiring can be extended to, which is why it’s often the primary lighting system in commercial buildings and homes. Line voltage fixtures are typically cheaper than low voltage options and are easier to install. There will be higher operating costs, and the light from these systems tends to be warm and diffused. Consider what you want for your home and consult with a residential electrician for further insight.

 

Bonham Electric, Inc. has proudly provided comprehensive electrical services to residents of Dayton, OH, since 1959. Their skilled, licensed electrical contractors handle all aspects of electrical work, including electrical wiring installations, repairs, and 24-hour emergency services. Visit their website to learn more about the company and call (937) 233-7662 to schedule an inspection. You can connect with them on Facebook for news and updates.

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