When professionalism and quality matter most.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is low-voltage landscape lighting?
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Low-voltage landscape lighting equipment is efficient, safe and easier to install than traditional landscape lighting. Unlike traditional 120-volt lights, low-voltage landscape lights use only 12 volts and can usually be installed without an electrician. Low-voltage lighting can be installed, expanded or repositioned with the home power still on, making adjustments easier once the system is in place.
- How much does a low-voltage landscape lighting system cost?
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The cost of a low-voltage system depends on how elaborate or intense your landscape is. A good rule of thumb for homeowners is 5-10 percent of their landscaping budget. For a more specific estimate, contact LKM Distributors.
- What are the benefits of low-voltage landscape lighting?
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Low-voltage landscape lighting does more than let kids play in the yard after sunset. It adds:
Beauty
Low-voltage landscape lighting highlights and accents a home’s interesting architectural and landscape features, and lends a warm glow to the exterior throughout the changing seasons.
Value
Low-voltage landscape lighting is a low-cost system to install and run, that makes a home stand out from its neighbors. It also allows homeowners to enjoy their yard from the inside and out during the evenings, increasing its real estate value.
Security
Lighted pathways and landscapes help prevent after-dark accidents and deter crime.
Flexibility
Contractors can easily change or add more lights to most low-voltage landscape systems.
- What can low-voltage landscape lighting illuminate?
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Low-voltage landscape lighting can illuminate any interesting landscape, architectural, waterscape, and garden features — stone work, pathways, decks, patios, exotic plants, etc. The advances in low-voltage products have brought the industry to the next level, allowing putting greens and basketball courts to be illuminated as well.
- Will low-voltage landscape lighting last through winter?
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A quality low-voltage landscape lighting system is equipped and designed to last through harsh weather conditions.
- How much maintenance does low-voltage landscape lighting require?
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At a minimum, your lighting lenses will need to be cleaned and adjustments will need to be made depending on your landscape’s growth and maturity. A good contractor will always offer a maintenance agreement and do their best in the initial installation to avoid major maintenance later.
- How much flexibility does the system have for adding more lights?
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One of the benefits of low-voltage landscape lighting is the flexibility to change or add on to your system. A well-trained, professional installer will work with you to design a system with future growth in mind — meaning they will leave room on the system instead of “maxing out” the transformer capability with the initial installation. Considering future needs in the beginning also means the cost of later expansion will be minimal.
- Will low-voltage landscape lighting harm my flowers and plants?
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Most outdoor lights used in the landscape don't pose a threat to plants. Buried or laid cords are well insulated so they won’t harm roots. However it is best to work with your landscaper and lighting contractor to ensure lights will not hurt plants.
- Will the installation process wreck my lawn?
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Low-voltage wiring is lightweight and can be laid on the ground or buried by hand. Since the National Electric Code requires cable to be buried only six inches below the landscape surface, there is no need for big equipment — meaning minimal impact on the lawn.
- Can I install low-voltage lights myself?
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Seriously consider what kind of investment and results you want when deciding to install low-voltage landscape lighting yourself or hire a professional.
Self-installation
Do-it-yourself low-voltage lighting kits are available in most large hardware outlets or lighting distributors if you’re looking to simply light up the path to your front or back door. These kits are a short-term investment, providing you a basic system with lower-grade fixtures and lamps — plastic vs. brass, incandescent vs. halogen. They will not last as long as more professional systems out there, and do not allow for custom designs for home and landscaping.
If you would like to make a bigger investment in professional grade materials but still want to do the installation yourself, LKM Distributors recommends you be trained or supervised by a qualified professional.
Professional Installation
If you decide to hire someone to install a higher-quality system, you have a few options:
Many local lawn service companies carry a limited selection of low-voltage landscape lighting fixtures and supplies. They can assist you in simple design and installation techniques, but most don't offer more sophisticated designs.
Electricians will install lights for you, but generally with little or no design in mind.
A professional low-voltage landscape lighting company can work with you to create the exact look you desire. If you do not know what you want, they can offer advice based on their experience in design, installation and maintenance, and most offer a home demonstration.
- What services does LKM Distributors provide?
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LKM Distributor’s single focus on low-voltage landscape lighting allows the company to provide a complete suite of services, including:
- Complete Design Consultation
- Our years of experience and attention to detail ensure nothing is overlooked
- Extensive Inventory Selection
- We have one of the largest inventories in Michigan to meet all contractor and homeowner needs
Comprehensively Trained Technicians
- We only work with and recommend trained and certified technicians to provide support and installation for our customers
- How do I get a home demo?
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Contact LKM Distributors today for your free home demonstration.
What do I do if I have a problem with my system?
LKM Distributors is dedicated to being the source of education and service in the low-voltage landscape lighting industry. Whether you are a new or current client, call us if you have a problem or questions. We are here to help you.
- What types of products does LKM Distributors supply?
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LKM Distributors provides the following product lines:
Lighting Systems
Access Lighting and Lanterns
Lamps
Pond Supplies and Fountains
LKM Distributors always tries to find the best products on the market that last the longest and have the best warranty. Please visit our Products Page for more information about these companies and the products they manufacture.
- Are LKM Distributors products easy to replace/repair?
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Unique Lighting Systems and Meyda Tiffany products have a lifetime warranty, so we will replace their fixtures free of charge if there are any problems.
Light bulbs (lamps) will have to be replaced eventually. You can limit the expense and hassle of continuously changing them by purchasing quality, long-life lamps and having them installed properly.
Contractors: for additional support for servicing Unique Lighting Systems contact LKM Distributors directly, or visit http://www.uniquelighting.com/tech_support/faq.html,
