I'm planning to install a total of 10 G2 Fat Boy spot lights (either 5w or 7W?) using two daisy chain patterns with 7 lights on 1 run and 3 lights on the second run. The run with 7 lights will end 150 feet from the transformer, and the run with 3 lights will end 60 feet from the transformer. Two questions related to this plan: Is the VOLT 150W Slim Line transformer a good fit for this layout (is it powerful enough?), and what gauge wire should I use for these run lengths? Apologies in advance for the crudeness of the drawing but please see attached planned layout - thanks!
With no other replies yet, I'll offer an opinion... Technically, yes, the VOLT 150W Slim Line transformer will work, as VOLT recommends not exceeding 80% of the transformer's capacity... in this case, 120W and you're well below that. But, I would suggest considering a larger transformer, in the event that you choose to add more lights later on (trust me, it happens). If "slim" isn't that critical to you, note that you can purchase a 300W Multi-Tap for cheaper than the 150W Slim Line right now ($159 vs. $169). I use a 300W Multi-Tap and appreciate having 12/13/14/15V taps available to me (vs. just 12V and 15V). It also fits an astronomic timer and I'm not sure if the Slim Line can fit one(?). What gauge wire: I'd probably go with 12 gauge based on the 150' distance alone, not to mention that you're also considering as bright as 7W. VOLT's guidance - "The lower the gauge, the thicker the wire. Systems that don’t have super-long wire runs (over 150 feet) can typically use 16 or 14 gauge wire. For longer runs, use lower gauge wire to prevent voltage drop. You will need about 100 feet of 12 gauge cable for every 100 watts. More specifically, multiply the amount of wattage per zone by the cable length in feet. For example, if you have 120 watts, and 75 feet, that equals 9,000. If the total is less than 10,000, use a 12 gauge cable. If the total is between 10,001 – 15,000, use a 10 gauge cable or split the zone into two smaller zones."
All of VOLT’s transformers are powerful. However, the bulkier transformers offer more automation options than those in the Slim Line series—which only accept the lower profile mechanical timer or timer/photocell combo indicated in the transformer’s product listing. This is something to keep in mind if you think you’ll want more sophisticated automation options down the road. Otherwise, there’s not much I could add to Dirk’s great feedback.
Definitely something to think about, as I have read several posts where people do wind up adding more lights over time. Thanks for the reply!!!
Thank you for the feedback. I appreciate the guidance / thoughts as there is much to consider and it is obviously better to do it on the front end. Thanks again!!!
