Low-voltage outdoor lights provide added safety, security and ambiance. These versatile systems can illuminate dark walkways, brighten patios, highlight landscape plants or cast light on unique architectural features.
Standard Services | Quantity | Low | High | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
What you can expect | |||||
Range per fixture: | $85.70 | $160.10 | |||
Range for this type of project: | $86 | $160 | |||
Estimate: $123 | |||||
Lighting Fixture Cost | 1 fixture | $28 | $67 | ||
Cost of residential-grade, die-cast aluminum fixture with anodized finish and low-voltage 15W bulb. Transformer and wiring incur additional costs. | |||||
Lighting Fixture Labor, Basic | 1 hour | $57 | $93 | ||
Labor cost, under typical conditions, for complete installation. Fixture and transformer placement will be designated, and a shallow trench created for hidden wiring, which will be run and concealed. Above-ground wiring will be secured to structure, and fixtures tested and connected. Rate is inclusive of all aspects of the project, such as thorough planning, acquisition of equipment and material, preparation and protection of project site, and meticulous cleanup. | |||||
Lighting Fixture Job Supplies | 1 fixture | $1 | $1 | ||
Requisite supplies for the job, including connectors, junction boxes, fasteners, and mounting hardware. |
cost to install low voltage outdoor lighting | |
National Avg. Materials Cost per fixture | $49.21 |
National Avg. Cost (labor and materials) for 1 fixture | $127.58 |
National Cost Range (labor and materials) for 1 fixture | $88.97 - $166.19 |
Outdoor lighting systems feature a collection of 12 to 15V fixtures that are connected to a 100 to 1,200W transformer via underground cables. Landscape architects can choose from dozens of fixtures depending on the installation site and desired lighting effect.
The quality of the products, the capacity of the transformer and the complexity of the layout have the greatest impact on the cost of this project. Architectural-grade lights equipped with long-lasting halogen bulbs cost more initially, but they're more durable and generate natural-looking light that's well worth the added cost. Most professionals recommend purchasing a slightly oversized transformer so that the homeowner can install additional fixtures in the future without replacing the entire setup.
Low-voltage landscape lighting is a unique specialization. Working with a professional is the easiest way to develop an effective, high-impact design while ensuring that all of the components are properly sized and installed. Although most communities don't require building permits for low-voltage lighting, it's wise to hire a licensed electrical contractor or a landscaper who installs these systems regularly.