Residential Low Voltage Wiring
In addition to heavier gauge electrical wiring, most homes have low-voltage (LV) wiring. The insulated wire carries voltages of 50 volts or less, much less than our 120v and 220v wiring. The LV wiring is used for many devices, from thermostats to doorbells. It is also used in exterior and track lighting systems. These systems are most often used when delivering light to an area that is difficult to access. LV systems require a transformer to reduce the voltage from 120v to 12v or 24v, the most common voltage for these systems.
When you require assistance with your LV wiring, contact the licensed professionals at Blue Collar Electric. Whether new construction or established homes, our team is ready to help.
Low Voltage Wiring Applications
- Thermostat Wire– Most thermostats are wired with LV wire. While there are some line voltage thermostats, most are LV systems with wire bundles of 2-5 wires connecting the thermostat to the HVAC system.
- Doorbell Wire – The doorbell is typically wired to the doorbell chime with long bundles of 18-20 gauge wires. Since the chime is usually located in the center of the home, the wire runs can be quite long.
- Landscape Lighting – Landscape light is designed to be low voltage to reduce the risk of electrical shock from potential wet areas outdoors. This lighting utilizes heavily insulated wiring, which is up to 16 gauge. The transformer connects the lights along the wire strand and is buried in the ground.
- Network Wiring – CAT5, CAT5e, CAT6, and CAT6A are network ethernet cables designed for carrying broadband internet.
- TV Cable – Cable TV systems are most commonly connected with RG-6 coaxial wire. It is heavily shielded to protect from interference. The insulation and shielding protect an 18-gauge wire run through the center. RG-59 is an older coaxial cable primarily found in CCTV security cameras or analog TV antennae
- Telephone Wire – While many homes are phasing out landlines, telephone service is still necessary for many patrons. Telephone wiring is a bundle of 4-6 insulated wires, 24-gauge thickness, and carries voice and data.
Low Voltage Safety
In theory, low-voltage wiring is designed for electrical safety. Unfortunately, low-voltage wiring often cross-connects with wires and devices carrying higher voltages. The low voltage can maintain the voltage required to produce an electric arc and start a fire. Caution is advised whenever working with electrical systems, even low voltage. It is often best to let licensed professional electricians perform this work.
Why Blue Collar Electric?
The trusted team of professionals at Blue Collar Electric is among the most trusted electrical contractors in Canada. Our team of licensed, bonded, and insured electricians have been committed to the highest safety, quality, and efficiency standards. For more than 16 years, we have taken great pride in providing the best services at a fair price, and we continue to do so. We proudly serve Edmonton, Alberta, Montreal, Quebec, and the surrounding areas.
Please allow us the opportunity to earn your business.