Landscape Lighting Installation Steps

1. Install the Transformer

• Mount the Transformer inside or outside in accordance with the manufacturer's UL instructions.
• Do Not Use Extension Cords!
• To connect the cable, strip the insulation back 3/4", loosen the transformer's secondary output terminal screws, slide the leads in as recommended, and tighten securely.
• Provide at least 10 feet of cable between the transformer and the first fixture to prevent overdriving the lamp.

2. Install the Cable

• Connect the cable to the transformer
• Layout the cable following the cable path in your drawing or plan.
• Allow enough extra cable length (about 3 feet) for burying and splicing. Extra cable also allows you to move fixtures as plants grow.

3. Assemble and Install the Fixtures

• Assemble the fixtures and install the bulb (lamp) according to the manufacturer's directions. 
• Seat the lamps securely in their sockets. High-heat silicone lubricant will protect the lamp contacts and make bulb replacement in the future much easier. 
• Do not touch Halogen Bulbs with your fingers since the oil from your skin will shorten the life of the bulb.
• Apply a lubricant to the threads between the fixture body and the rim or lens cap so you will be able to easily remove for future relamping (new bulb) and cleaning.
• Stake or fasten fixtures in place.
• For Ground-Mounting: bury in ground or stake as per manufacturers instructions. For installation with a stake, first run the lead wires out the bottom, then thread the stake to the fixture. Insert the stake into the ground to hold the fixture in place.
• For Trees: attach fixtures to trees with screws or nails (stainless steel fasteners) and secure the cable with nail-on clips. Tying or clamping around a tree's trunk or branches can harm the tree.
• For Decks: attach fixtures to decks with stainless steel or brass hardware.
• Try to conceal the light source, either with a shroud on the fixture, or by tucking it behind a
  shrub, large branch, wall, or rock. Ideally, you will be unable to see where the light originates.
  The effect should be visible not the source.

4. Connect Fixtures to Cable

• Connect the fixtures using silicone sealed wire connectors (such as LV9500 wire connectors).
• Press-On Connectors should be avoided since they do not provide a sound wire connection and do do provide adequate moisture protection. This can cause significant wiring problems with time.
• Cut the cable at the location of the fixture. On both ends of the cut cable, slice and separate the two leads for about 3". Strip the insulation back 3/4"  from each lead. Twist together a lead from the fixture and one lead from each end of the cable. Use the silicone filled wire nuts (LV9500 wire nuts) to make the best connection.
• Cut the final end of the cable cleanly and apply protective silicone gel and tape it for protection against moisture.
• Bury the cable using the 103T Hand Trencher. This Heavy Duty Tool will not tear sod or leave unsightly shovel marks. The tool is used like a shovel when pushed in the ground you pull the handle back and forth and you will make a trench that looks like a V from 4" to 15" deep depending on soil conditions. After the wire is installed in the trench, you can flip the tool over and tap the trench closed with the T handle end of the trenching tool. It is a great tool to use for low voltage lighting and irrigation installation industry.