Cleaning
As with anything, an occasional
cleaning will ensure a longer,
quality performance. Periodically,
remove dirt, leaves and other
debris, which tend to collect
around the fixtures. Pay particular
attention to inground fixtures and
fixtures in low-lying areas. When
tackling the cleaning of fixtures,
consider moving them to create a
different look. Cleaning the lens
helps the lamp to operate more
efficiently, extending the lamp life.
As with anything, an occasional
cleaning will ensure a longer,
quality performance. Periodically,
remove dirt, leaves and other
debris, which tend to collect
around the fixtures. Pay particular
attention to inground fixtures and
fixtures in low-lying areas. When
tackling the cleaning of fixtures,
consider moving them to create a
different look. Cleaning the lens
helps the lamp to operate more
efficiently, extending the lamp life.
Replacing lamps
Different lamps have different life expectancies. This means someone will need to replace lamps
in the fixtures occasionally. Always apply a corrosion preventive compound when changing lamps
to avoid socket corrosion.
Avoiding corrosion
When installing lamps, dip the lamp bases into corrosion preventive compound (MA4) or spray
sockets with silicone to help prevent oxidation between the lamp and its socket. Repeating this
application once a year also provides a better connection between the lamp and socket. Also
remember to seal or tape exposed wire to slow oxidation of the copper. Use mastic, caulking or
tape - whichever is appropriate in your situation.
Pruning
Since you are working with living and growing things, you will need to prune periodically to keep
the fixtures from disappearing into an overgrowth of shrubbery. Don't forget to reposition fixtures,
especially in trees to cover any bright spots.
Harsh environments
Some environmental conditions require special consideration when choosing your low voltage
fixtures. Such environments include:
brass fixtures. These fixtures are designed to hold up to the test of harsh environments. You may
want to look into inground fixtures with composite housing.
Adding new fixtures
If there is even the slightest possibility that you will want to install additional fixtures later, it is wise
to choose a transformer that will allow for the extra wattage. Remember, we recommend you
initially use between 70% and 80% of the power console capacity. This will save some power for
additional fixtures.
Don't forget
The environment is ever changing, so landscape lighting does require periodic maintenance.
Different lamps have different life expectancies. This means someone will need to replace lamps
in the fixtures occasionally. Always apply a corrosion preventive compound when changing lamps
to avoid socket corrosion.
Avoiding corrosion
When installing lamps, dip the lamp bases into corrosion preventive compound (MA4) or spray
sockets with silicone to help prevent oxidation between the lamp and its socket. Repeating this
application once a year also provides a better connection between the lamp and socket. Also
remember to seal or tape exposed wire to slow oxidation of the copper. Use mastic, caulking or
tape - whichever is appropriate in your situation.
Pruning
Since you are working with living and growing things, you will need to prune periodically to keep
the fixtures from disappearing into an overgrowth of shrubbery. Don't forget to reposition fixtures,
especially in trees to cover any bright spots.
Harsh environments
Some environmental conditions require special consideration when choosing your low voltage
fixtures. Such environments include:
- Water or air with a high salt content (coastal areas)
- Soil with a high acid content
- Soil that is heavily fertilized
- Water with a high lime content
brass fixtures. These fixtures are designed to hold up to the test of harsh environments. You may
want to look into inground fixtures with composite housing.
Adding new fixtures
If there is even the slightest possibility that you will want to install additional fixtures later, it is wise
to choose a transformer that will allow for the extra wattage. Remember, we recommend you
initially use between 70% and 80% of the power console capacity. This will save some power for
additional fixtures.
Don't forget
The environment is ever changing, so landscape lighting does require periodic maintenance.
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Picture courtesy of Silver Moon Lighting, Dallas, TX
