Wire 12-AWG

Common choices are 12, 14, and 16 AWG copper. Use heavier gauges for higher loads and longer distances to keep voltage near 12 V at fixtures.

Keep runs short, upsize wire, and use multi‑tap transformers. Target ~11.5–12.5 V at fixtures under load; measure and adjust taps as needed.

Copper offers stable, low‑resistance connections and is standard for landscape systems. Aluminum is less common and needs special lugs.

Yes—use direct‑burial rated cable and follow local code for burial depth (often 6 in. minimum for low‑voltage). Mark routes on an as‑built plan.

Push a conduit sleeve under hardscape with a boring tool or water jet, then pull cable through. Seal ends and use pull strings for future adds.

Maintain separation where code requires. Avoid sharing trenches with sharp rocks or sprinkler lines without protection.

Use UL‑listed gel‑filled connectors, heat‑shrink butt splices, or junction boxes. Keep splices out of standing water where possible.

Sum fixture wattage per run and keep within transformer and wire capacity, leaving 20–30% headroom for future changes.

Hub wiring evens voltage at a central point; T‑taps are efficient for branches; loops are less common with LEDs. Choose based on layout and drop.

Inspect for cuts, rodent damage, and loose splices; re‑terminate corroded copper; and verify voltage at the far ends seasonally.