If you are in the market for low voltage transformers, you will find that there are many different types of available products. Choosing the best transformers for your requirements depends upon several factors. These variables include the number of outlets, number of zones, and the average current flowing through the home or building. It is also important to consider what type of voltage needs your property has. In the following paragraphs, we will examine the differences and similarities between different voltage transformers so that you can choose the one that is right for you!
Type of outlet transformers Single-port transformer (also known as single-port timer) provide the exact same output voltage from all the single-ports on a single strip (so, all outlets provide 12V). Multiple-port transformer has several pre-installed maps for a wide range of low voltage output, such as 12V to eighteen. The advantage of the multiple-port transformer is that the device can be placed out of the way when not in use, making for a more attractive and energy-efficient design. The best low voltage transformers for this application are often considered thermal transfer devices, which transfer heat from one thermal mass to another to provide an efficient source of alternating current.
Types of lighting that require timer currents are a different matter entirely. Landscape lighting can often deliver a greater amount of electrical power per unit area than most other lighting systems. To meet the needs of this application, you need a transformer capable of handling the constant demands associated with landscape lighting. Since most landscape lights are powered by electricity, the best low voltage transformers must be designed to handle both the voltage requirements and the alternating current requirements of this type of system.
Another application that requires the best low voltage transformers are LED lights. An LED light is generally powered by one or more diodes. These lights are capable of providing bright, intense light without the high voltage that is associated with incandescent bulbs. The challenge with using an LED light with a transformer is that these lights are sensitive to changes in temperature. If the surrounding environment does not conform to standards for outdoor lighting, the light bulb might not function properly, causing unpredictable results in the voltage output.
The best low voltage transformers for use with outdoor lighting fixtures are designed to be able to withstand varying temperatures. The most commonly installed transformers are made with an air tight housing to reduce the risk of expansion that could increase the risk of electrical contact with the housing and produce undesirable heat transfer results. However, air tight housing is expensive and does not always provide the type of insulation that is necessary to prevent heat transfer. In addition, air does not offer the type of temperature control that is required to prevent degradation of the device. It is therefore important that a designer keeps in mind the combination of various input voltage and the environment that the system will be used in.
A good transformer must have the ability to operate safely under all but the most ideal conditions, including outdoor applications and adverse environmental factors such as heat. For example, the best low voltage transformers for use with solar garden lights should have the capability to operate even in very cold weather. Circuit protection is another important feature that should be considered when choosing a transformer. While photocells can be operated at ambient voltage, circuit protection prevents loss of current that could damage the equipment.
The best outdoor low voltage transformers can also protect against electromagnetic interference from nearby communications towers and power lines. Additionally, the best outdoor low voltage transformers should be able to reduce the amount of heat that is transferred through the wiring system during operation. Some outdoor units use a small amount of heat sinks to further improve the performance of the device. The number of required circuits that a transformer must handle is another consideration. The number of circuits that are handled by a single unit is the maximum that a unit can carry.
One more option to consider when choosing transformers is how output voltage and ampacity are managed. Some transformers are limited only by the amount of current that can be carried through it. Other transformers work better if current carrying capacity is higher. LED lights are one application where both high and low wattage transformers are commonly used. The output voltage and ampacity of LED lights are dependent on the size of the LED lights and the total maximum load. Another application where both high and low wattage transformers are used is in the case of step down transformers.
