Replacing a Halogen Lighting Transformer
|
The Key to Transformer Power Supplies – Watts or VA – this is the load or the amount of watts that will be required for all of the lamps or bulbs that will be used or part of the light fixture(s) that will be connected to the power supply. |
Understanding Lighting Transformer Power Supplies
[ad#block] Electrical Question: I have an old transformer that lights up small halogen bulbs in an above counter cabinet. Transformer went cold (compared to other two which remain warm went switch is on) and no longer powers 4 small 10Watt bulbs. I showed to lighting store only to be told the connections are too old (i.e. no one uses them). And, all 3 transformers plug into a strip and that single strip plugs into a normal outlet. See photo of the 4 connections to wiring for bulbs and single connection to go into strip. Basically, if all this is old, how do I convert to a new transformer? Or, better, can I buy a new transformer and attach the old connections to it at both ends (to bulbs and to the strip described earlier)? Ideally, there is a transformer out there that has 4 sets of ‘out’ wires that I could clip the old connections to and same goes for the other single end that connections to the strip. Thanks in advance
This electrical wiring question came from: Richard, a Homeowner from San Francisco, California.
See more about Home Wiring for California
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Richard.
Halogen Lighting and Transformer Power Supplies
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, a non-aluminum ladder and Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools and access to the light fixture(s).
Precaution: Identify the light circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Richard, copy down the specifications from the old transformer so that the new replacement power supply will be correct.
The Key to Transformer Power Supplies
- The specifications of a power supply will include :
- Primary Voltage – this is the main power of the lighting circuit, which is typically 120 volts in the USA.
- Secondary Voltage – this is the voltage that is required for the light fixture, and it will be AC or DC, this must be identified.
- Watts or VA – this is the load or the amount of watts that will be required for all of the lamps or bulbs that will be used or part of the light fixture(s) that will be connected to the power supply.
- IMPORTANT – Get the right power supply, and make sure it is rated so that it will supply the adequate amount of watts or VA for the light fixture(s).
The Following will assist you with your electrical question:
electrical outlet wiring
Wiring Electrical Outlet for the Home
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
electrical wire
Electrical Wire for the Home
Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.
home lighting
Home Lighting Articles
Home Lighting Articles covering recessed lighting, under cabinet lighting, lighting terminology and more.
For more information about Electrical Wiring
Electrical Wiring
Electrical Wiring
Home electrical wiring projects with pictures and wiring diagrams.
This link is helpful as a Homeowner
Do-It-Yourself Electrical
The following may also be helpful for you:
Learn more about Home Electrical Wiring
|
||||||||
Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!The Non-Contact Electrical TesterThis is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!The Plug-In Outlet TesterThis is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.
Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!The Wire Stripper and Wire CutterMy absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use. |
||
| More articles about Electrical, Transformer and Home Electrical Wiring: | |
| « Previous | Next » |
| How To Replace a Phone Jack | Electrical Wiring for a Switch Outlet Combination |
