Educate Yourself – System Flexibility, Evaluation & Installation Documentation

Choosing the right product to enhance your landscape is a tough decision, after all, your lights and landscape should last a lifetime. Every day more and more homeowners are realizing the benefits of landscape lighting; make sure you are educated so you can make the right decision on what system is right for your landscape and lifestyle.

System Flexibility – Your landscape continuously changes year after year. Make sure your contractor has accounted for future expansion to add fixtures on the system. This means having available room on your transformer installed today to allow growth for tomorrow. You need flexibility in the placement of your fixtures to be able to move 5, 10 or even 25 feet. This again is where the wiring method is important. The Power Management Hub System is the only method to allow you the freedom of movement up to 25 feet.

System Evaluation – Make sure your contractor tests the complete system for the following:
1.Amp probe tests the wire runs from the transformer to the fixture, assuring that they do not exceed 80% of the wire rating.
2.Volt meter test all lamps to assure they receive between 11.3 to 12.3 volts.
3.Amp probe the transformer to assure it does not exceed 80% of the rating.

Installation Documentation – Make sure your contractor educates you on the following:
1.The Manufacturer’s Warranty
2.Equal and proper voltage to all lamps
3.Proper fusing
4.Glare control with lenses or glare shields
5.Proper levels of light
6.Benefits of using high quality, long lasting lamps
7.Consumer Buyer Protection Plan (Exclusive to Unique Lighting Systems)

Following these guidelines will help to ensure your landscape lighting will last you a lifetime.

Questions for your contractor

Installing lighting in your home is an exciting time. Choosing the right contractor, however, can be a little stressful. There are some important questions to keep in mind, and guidelines to follow when adding lighting to your home. Don’t be afraid to ask for answers. Always make sure your contractor is well qualified and informative. Here are some questions you should keep in mind:

-Is your company certified in lighting?
-Do you provide a maintenance program?
-What is your warranty along with the manufacturer’s warranty?
-What type of documentation do you provide?
-How much flexibility does the system have for more lights?
-What wiring methods do you use?
-What materials do you use and why?
-Will you do a demo?
-Do you use an amp probe to test the system? (On the primary or secondary side?)
-What is the correct voltage to a halogen lamp? (Min. 10.8, best range from 11.3 to 12.5)
-What is the amount of fixtures on a wire run? (No more than 5)
-How many watts can be put on a 12/2 wire? (Maximum 192)

Once you feel comfortable with the responses and contractor you’re all set to enjoy your newly illuminated home! For more info log on to www.gregtanzersprinklers.com