Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, August 9, 1994 TAG: 9408110014
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: David Butler
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
A: Outdoor light fixtures come in more shapes and sizes than you'd ever imagine. Some are functional while others are purely for accent. For example, tier lights are ideal for decks and walkways while spotlights can create a focal point around prominent trees or shrubs. Some models even come with built-in stereo speakers disguised as boulders!
As an added benefit, outdoor lighting will make your home more secure.
Lighting should never draw attention to itself, only to what is being illuminated. If a lighting system is tastefully done, you may not even realize it's there unless someone calls it to your attention - yet the visual effect can be breathtaking.
By learning a few simple lighting techniques, you can transform your property into a nighttime paradise.
First, the light source should be concealed from view. This sometimes requires a little help from the plants. When using uplighting, an effective technique for highlighting trees and building facades, judicious use of shadow and color go a long way to create drama. Moonlighting, a popular downlighting technique, is achieved by placing mercury vapor fixtures high in large trees, creating a magical glow on the branches and grass below.
Most landscape fixtures require 12 volts - ideal for do-it-yourselfers. Not only are low voltage systems simpler and safer to install (You don't have to bury the wire!), but fixtures can easily be rearranged on a seasonal basis to accent different plants. Furthermore, low voltage bulbs can last a long time.
Special fixtures are often needed when illuminating large trees. 120-volt wiring should only be done by an electrician. You may want to ask him if he climbs trees.
Planning your system is the fun part. Sit down with a couple of fixture catalogs and sketch out a tentative plan. Several fixture manufacturers publish excellent design booklets with step-by-step instructions. Play up your home and yard's strengths while de-emphasizing any weak points. Once your plan is complete, you'll have all the information you need to purchase the components.
Most transformers (low voltage power supply) include a built-in time clock and a photo cell. These allow you to program your lights to turn on at dusk and turn off at a specified time. Mount the transformer on an exterior wall near an electrical outlet. You'll need a small weather-resistant housing to protect the plug from the elements.
If you'd rather avoid wiring altogether, you can choose from a growing number of solar-powered landscape fixtures. Installation couldn't be easier - simply stick the fixture in the ground and turn it on. Styles include accent as well as functional lighting. Under optimum conditions, you can expect four to six hours of service per night. Some fixtures can be set to a lower intensity to extend their burn time.
To receive a list of companies that manufacture low voltage and solar-powered landscape lighting fixtures, please send $1.50 and a self-addressed envelope to David Butler F-420, Department TWN, 14713 Pleasant Hill Road, Charlotte, N.C. 28278-7927. The list also includes information on time clocks and transformers as well as sources for ``power line carrier'' home control timers.
Q: What keeps a burglar from simply taking a phone off the hook to prevent my security system from alerting the authorities?
A: Professionally installed security system dialers are wired to a special phone jack (RJ31x). It contains a relay that's wired to the rest of the telephones in the house. When the security panel initiates an emergency call, it uses this relay to disconnect all other phones from the telephone line.
by CNB