Multi Tap Transformer

If you enjoy different types of low voltage outdoor lighting, a multi tap transformer could be the answer to many of your lighting problems, and allow you to enjoy even more lighting hassle-free. A multi tap transformer designed for outdoor use is made specifically to power different lighting set-ups at the same time.  You can find them with built-in timers, making their use even more convenient for those who want their outdoor lighting to come on and go off at specified times.

The size of the multi tap transformer you’ll need depends on several things. How many items will you want to hook into the transformer? Some have only two taps, or outputs, while others have several.  Also consider how many volts each item requires.  Each transformer will have a maximum output, so that all of the items attached to it can’t require more than that wattage combined.
An easy formula for determining the size of multi tap transformer you’ll need is to add the combined wattages of all the fixtures you’ll want to hook into the transformer.  Then divide that number by 0.8.  So if the combined wattage of all your outdoor lighting items is 220, for instance, when you divide that number by 0.8 you’ll end up with 275.  So you’ll need to choose the next largest transformer to handle those fixtures.  In this example, you would purchase at least a 300 watt multi tap transformer for your outdoor lighting fixtures.

A multi tap transformer isn’t just handy for wiring several different outdoor lighting fixtures, it can also help prevent the dimming and premature bulb burnout that often results from voltage drop.  Voltage drop is something that occurs sometimes with low voltage outdoor lighting, especially when long wires are used, as they often are, with those types of lighting fixtures.  The longer the wire, the less likely that the full voltage will travel to the end of it That can result in dimmer lights and shortened bulb life, because the entire fixture was designed to operate under certain conditions and that changes with voltage drop.

But a multi tap transformer can help. The transformer will have different taps in different voltages.  You can choose a higher voltage tap for the fixture that seems to be having voltage drop problems. Lower voltage taps are best for the fixtures with shorter wires.  You can use the same transformer for all of your outdoor lighting needs and get the best possible performance from all of them by using a multi tap transformer.
While a multi tap transformer is a more expensive option, you’ll quickly see the choices it gives you.  With one transformer, you can run one low voltage outdoor lighting fixture.  More require more transformers, and come with their own problems of where to place them and how to disguise them.  So start your outdoor lighting scheme with a multi-tap variety, or replace your fixture’s current one with a multi tap transformer, and you’ll be able to easily expand your outdoor lighting.