The type of wire you should use for outdoor lights depends on the type of lighting you are installing and the voltage. Outdoor lighting can be either low voltage or line voltage, and each type requires different types of wiring.
Low voltage lights operate at 12 volts or less and require a low voltage cable, while line voltage lights run on 110-125 volts and require standard electrical wire.
Low Voltage Lights
Low voltage lights are a popular choice for outdoor lighting because they are easy to install and are much safer than line voltage lights. Low voltage lighting typically operates at 12 volts or less and requires a low voltage cable that is rated for the wattage of the light fixtures.
The most common type of cable is two-conductor unshielded direct burial cable, which is rated for outdoor use and can be buried directly in the ground without any additional protection. This type of cable is available in various gauges depending on how many watts the light fixtures require.
Line Voltage Lights
Line voltage lights are powered by 110-125 volts AC, which means they must be connected to an electrical circuit in order to operate. The wiring used for line voltage lights is standard electrical wire, which is typically copper with an insulated jacket. The gauge of the wire will depend on how many watts the light fixtures use; higher wattage fixtures will require heavier gauge wire.
Conclusion:
When choosing what type of wire to use for outdoor lights, you need to consider the type of lighting you are installing and the voltage: low-voltage lighting requires a low-voltage cable, while line-voltage lighting requires standard electrical wire. It’s important to choose a wire that is rated for the wattage of your light fixtures in order to ensure that your wiring meets safety standards.
