Transformer Question

[bcwsport]

Does anyone know of a low voltage transformer that may be used indoors and (important) run outdoor lights. I only need around 200 watts and do not want to spend an arm and a leg on one.
My biggest concern is running outdoor lights with he power source indoors. I have never been confronted w/ such a senerio and do not know if it is even plausible. Any suggestions?

[chesie]

If I am understanding you correctly- just about any QUALITY transformer should be able to be mounted indoors. We often mount our transformers in the homeowners garage.

[bcwsport]

I am just worried about a surge or sparks or anything that would make it dangerous to put one in someone's basement. I have done the garage before. This, however is going through the wall and into a storage room in the basement. I am just trying to error on the side of caution.

[cgland]

Any decent trans. will work.

[chesie]

As long as the transformer is UL listed you should be fine. Be sure you do not mount it near anything combustable and be sure you do not have any stray wires protruding. We ussually will pipe into the house w/ conduit to the transformer.

I am not sure if some of your concern is coming from the type of transformer you are using or not. Are you using a el cheapo from HD or a quality transformer from Cast, kichler or etc. I have used the el cheapo myself when we have the odd job w/ 1-3 fixtures(why bother) and I would have some concern w/ them inside.

We have done complete systems using cast fixtures and transformers exstensily INSIDE of a residence and passed electrical inspection w/ ease.

[bcwsport]

Cool, thanks.

[mark tresch]

The transformer that ran my pool, was located in the basement, no issues

[Evening Star Lighting]

As long as your using a transformer that has a valid regulatory compliance mark, it will be suitable and safe for mounting indoors. It must display any one of the following : FCC, UL, ETL, CSA, and show the United States designation. (US markings).

These products, if overloaded will fail safely and not cause sparks, excessive heat or burn. (Meaning that the transformer only will fail safely) Secondary wiring MUST be in conduit, when going through any walls to the outside.