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Garden Lights

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  • 12-09-2016 11:32am
    #1
    pete6296
    Registered Users Posts: 345 ✭✭


    Hi,
    I have a query in relation to length of cable I will be running for lights at front of house. I will have power coming to a step down transformer which will supply 3 lights on the left (35 metres) and 3 lights on the right (50 metres). Will voltage drop be an issue for this distance, system I am looking at recommends no more than 25 metres.
    I would be grateful for any opinions.
    Thanks


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    #2
    2011
    Moderators, Home & Garden Moderators, Technology & Internet Moderators, Regional East Moderators Posts: 12,595 Mod ✭✭✭✭2011


    pete6296 wrote: »
    Hi,
    I have a query in relation to length of cable I will be running for lights at front of house. I will have power coming to a step down transformer which will supply 3 lights on the left (35 metres) and 3 lights on the right (50 metres). Will voltage drop be an issue for this distance, system I am looking at recommends no more than 25 metres.
    I would be grateful for any opinions.
    Thanks

    Not enough information to answer fully. However:

    Volt drop is a function of current & resistance.

    The current is a function of the load (reduced load = reduced current = reduced volt drop).

    The resistance can be reduced by either using a cable with a larger cross sectional area or by shortening the length of run.

    A few points to consider:

    1) The furthest fittings will experience the largest volt drop.

    2) A volt drop of 6 volts will make very little difference to a 230 V lamp but it will make a substantial difference to a 12 V lamp.

    3) If the loads are small enough (by using LED lamps) longer cable runs are possible smaller cables.

    4) ET101 provides volt drop tables for various cables.


  • Options
    #3
    pete6296
    Registered Users Posts: 345 ✭✭pete6296


    Hi,
    Thanks very much for your reply.
    I put in Garden Lights at rear of house and all good.
    I drew a little rough diagram, would I be better to split power from house and go left and right as opposed to what is drawn.
    Reason: Ducting under Kerbing on Left and I buried Ducting on right (could dig to find it)
    Thanks,
    Peter


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