I read your low voltage under cabinet lighting article and have a technical question. I installed 5 low voltage halogen lights on a single 60W max transformer. The original bulbs were 20W each and designed for a 3-light system equalling the capacity of the power supply. I needed two more lights so replaced the 20W bulbs with 10W bulbs thus reducing the load to a total of 50W. The system worked fine for a few months, but now has a problem. When first turned on the lights come on full strength. However, after a short time they slowly dim, to virtually no light. I suspected transformer failure and contacted the manufacturer (Lusa). They told me that their low voltage undercabinet systems have been discontinued. What do you think the problem is? Can it be resolved without pulling out the entire system and replacing it will line voltage lights (very difficult since the system was installed with the cabinets)? Thanks very much for your help.

Charles,
You need to contact the manufacturer. Have the factory rep visit to see what might be wrong.

I have two LUSA undercabinet systems. On one of them the transformer has melted onto itself. Where can I find another one to replace it??

Thanks in advance.

Jim

Try checking with the manufacturer, LUSA Lighting, at www.lusalighting.com.

As mentioned initialy, LUSA lighting was of no help, saying their low voltage products were discontinued. Any other ideas? Thanks

Take the old transformer to an electrical supply house. In the Cincinnati area, there is F.D. Lawrence Electric. These companies carry transformers from various manufacturers. They should be able to match your transformer.

I have a technical question about what guage/type of wire to use inside the walls between the transformer and the lights. I know this leg carries a lot of current so I don't want to risk a fire.

Kevin,
The total load determines wire size. Check with the manufacturer of the actual lights you are using.

I am hearing a lot about LED lighting and am interested in using LED for under cabinet lighting. Can you offer any guidance? especially interested in how to dim LED lights.

David,
LEDs are awesome. Research the different manufacturers..... for tips and controls.

I purchased a set of three under the counter lights with the touch brightener. I installed them on either side of an under the counter television. After a few days, the picture went black it still had sound but no picture. I unpluged the lights and about two weeks later the tv started working again. To day on try ing to install a range hood, I accidentally pluged in the under the counter lights. The tv picture went off immediately and has not come back on. The lights were plugged in but they were not turned on. I have since removed all of the lights and the plugins but still no tv. 'Help"

Bob,
This is AsktheBuilder, not AsktheElectronicsGeek...... :->

I know as much about TVs as I do women......

I'm trying to research puck in order to put them on the underside of a fireplace mantle. The two questions I can't find answers to are:

1. Are xenon lights able to withstand high ambient temperatures?

2. Are low-voltage installations safer than line-voltage variants (both in general and specifically as regards fire risk).

Any suggestions???

We have installed under cabinet lighting and installed the transformers inside of the cabinets. We are being told by the city inspector that we cannot put transformers inside the cabinets as it is a fire risk. All the sites I have read that this is ok. What do you think of this