Transformers and Low Voltage Lighting

In lighting, transformers are continually improving. Transformers are one of the simplest of electrical devices. The basic design of principles has changed little over the years.

TRANSFORMERS are used to increase or decrease AC voltage and currents in circuits. If the output voltage of a transformer is greater than the input voltage it is called a step-up transformer. If the output voltage is less than the input voltage it is called a step-down transformer.

Normally low voltage recess fixtures are intergrated with a magnetic transformer, which is a step down transformer. They can produce a noticable humming or buzzing sound. In busier areas such as kitchens and family activity room you might not notice but in bedrooms, dens, and libraries the noise might be a little distracting.

Setting up a remote transformer that will help keep sound out of the room might be a wise idea. This type of system can reduce the cost because you can use one transformer for a fixtures or a group of fixtures instead of a transformer per fixture.

The alternative is to use a fixture with an electronic (solid state) transformer. These are virtually silent but keep in mind they will cost more.

When using dimmers on your fixtures that have transformers you might have to check and see if they are compatible with the transformer

MAGNETIC TRANSFORMERS 12 volt or 24 volt use a low voltage with a magnetic dimmer. With an electronic transformer 120 volts and 12 volt low voltage electronic units, as an example is track fixtures, you can use a standard incandescent dimmer.

TRANSFORMERS for low voltage, select a transformer that matches as close as possible the total lamp wattages. The total lamp load should not be less than one-third of the transformer wattage rating nor exceed its maximum wattage capacity. If bulb wattages are to low for the transformer or the farther away the fixture is from the transformer the dimmer the light will be.

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Recess Trims