How to install hardscape low voltage lighting for steps and retaining wall-Amazon Cloudy Bay 7” LED

I am sure you agree hardscapes and landscapes look a lot more luxurious and pronounced with some lighting. In this video I go through the process of selecting low voltage lights for my stone retaining wall and steps. I also talk about low voltage transformers, their purpose and how to pick one that is suitable for your low voltage lighting needs or project. I then explain in detail my wiring plans from the low voltage transformer to the individual low voltage lights. Finally, I test the low voltage lights to ensure desired outcome.
The low voltage lights I picked out for this lighting project are the Cloudy Bay 7" LED low voltage hardscape lights purchased from Amazon. Each light is 5W and comes with waterproof connectors and 4' wire. I also picked up 100' of extra low voltage wire and a 120W low voltage transformer.
It is important to measure the total amount of wattage necessary for your project in order to determine the correct size transformer. I will also note that the extra low voltage wire I picked out is 16 gauge and the low voltage fixture wire is 20 gauge. From my experience I can tell you that it is ok to mix and match low voltage wire as long as the electrical output is controlled or capped by the low voltage transformer. For this project I connected the 16 g wire to the 20 g wire and I had no problems. To connect the wires for an outdoor project you should use waterproof connectors. These connectors have wax or grease inside them that will deter water and moisture. You may also use electrical tape as an added measure.
Low voltage lighting is the best alternative to regular landscape lighting for the following reasons:
- It is safer to use due to the low voltage
- It's easier to fish and wire around your project because it is lower gauge wire
- No need to use conduit for underground installation, these wires are direct burrial
- Low voltage lights are less expensive to run; therefore, it consumes less energy
I hope you find this video helpful, thank for watching and supporting the channel.
Disclaimer: these videos are for information purposes only. They are not meant to induce action; therefore, you agree and understand that you make your own decisions and absorb all risks associated with said decisions/actions. You further agree to hold True Grit Development, LLC, it’s members and anyone affiliated with True Grit Development, LLC harmless from any damage or loss.
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[@fettyguapo]

Great video bro, explained everything real nice 👍🏼

[@TrueGritDevelopment]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching 👊🏼

[@WrenchMonkey88]

Great video!

[@TrueGritDevelopment]

Glad you enjoyed it 👊🏼

[@stunnedb_oy3112]

Is there any issue leaving the wires with non protection?

[@TrueGritDevelopment]

No, because these are low voltage; however, it’s recommended you burry them.

[@tonyaction5284]

I just subscribed to you channel thanks to this video🤙🏼
I’m looking forward to seeing more upcoming videos as well as checking out your previous videos and tips!!!🤙🏼

[@TrueGritDevelopment]

Thanks for watching and supporting ✊🏼 I have a bunch of videos coming up.

[@tonyaction5284]

@@TrueGritDevelopment awesome!!!!!

[@ailhalawe3599]

عاشت ايدك

[@xEFRAINLOZADAx]

I noticed these are a install for the non wifi ones. I’m very confused on how to install the ones with a special wire connection in the back that comes with the wifi ones from cloudy bay any tips. Can I splice the ends to connect with wire nuts. I have long run for a retaining wall about 100ft. I’m just worried to mess up the Bluetooth feature of the lights.

[@TrueGritDevelopment]

I am actually not familiar with the WiFi ones. However, Bluetooth and WiFi signals do not travel through cables, so I would think you should be ok splicing. If you want to experiment with one light just to be sure. Hope this helps. Thanks for watching 👊🏽

[@javierargumedo3]

do you have a part number for led light?

[@TrueGritDevelopment]

This is the description on Amazon
“JOMITOP 1.5W Deck Step Light 7 Inch,LED Hardscape Paver Light, Warm White 2700K, 12V Low Voltage AC/DC, Garden Pathway Light Outdoor IP65”

[@Sazonman]

Can the lighting bulb be changed to 6000k daylight

[@TrueGritDevelopment]

Good question. No, you will have to splice a new bulb onto the wire. Also, not sure if this manufacturer makes higher lumens bulbs. Check them out on Amazon. If they do, it’s not a simple swap. The screws on the side will remove the bulb, but it is hard wired. Hope this helps. Thanks for watching 👊🏼

[@jimguo179]

cloudybay has 5000k now

[@traderabbit8408]

Awesome, Can you please provide the transformer and light details.

[@TrueGritDevelopment]

Thank you. In the description I list the lights I used. Here is the transformer information: DEWENWILS 120W Outdoor Low Voltage Transformer with Timer and Photocell Sensor. Hope this helps! Thanks for watching and supporting ✊🏼

[@traderabbit8408]

@@TrueGritDevelopment Thank you so much for your kind reply. I have one more question I have stamped concrete in my backyard, Can I build the retaining wall on existing stamped concrete wihtout base?

[@TrueGritDevelopment]

I would not recommend that unless it’s a decorative wall and no continuous pressure will be on it. For a retaining wall you need a deeper base below freeze line. Here in PA it’s 3’ and we also install a French drain to relocate any build up moisture away from the wall. You might want to check your area ordinances when it comes to retaining walls. In general though they need to withstand pressure from soil/dirt as well as water fall. Hope this helps.

[@traderabbit8408]

@@TrueGritDevelopment absolutely .. Thank you so much