02-15-2016, 04:49 PM
For ten years my Malibu transformer worked flawlessly with my underground low voltage lights and deck lights. The lights are safely within the transformer's 200-watt power limit.
This El Nino winter apparently did a number on one of the underground wires. Last night a short developed and heat built up in the transformer, frying it. Eventually the 120 v cord's insulation melted and the 15-amp circuit breaker threw. Surprisingly, the GFCI outlet indoors never tripped (Murphy's Law).
I'm not sure if these transformers are safety fuse protected, but perhaps they should be. The Malibu now looks like nothing but a black blob. What I intend to do next is install an outdoor outlet that has its own GFCI and replace the one indoors. Then when spring eventually arrives, I'll buy a new transformer, replace the underground wire, and reconnect the lights. Any other suggestions?
This El Nino winter apparently did a number on one of the underground wires. Last night a short developed and heat built up in the transformer, frying it. Eventually the 120 v cord's insulation melted and the 15-amp circuit breaker threw. Surprisingly, the GFCI outlet indoors never tripped (Murphy's Law).
I'm not sure if these transformers are safety fuse protected, but perhaps they should be. The Malibu now looks like nothing but a black blob. What I intend to do next is install an outdoor outlet that has its own GFCI and replace the one indoors. Then when spring eventually arrives, I'll buy a new transformer, replace the underground wire, and reconnect the lights. Any other suggestions?
Rip to width. Plane to thickness. Cut to length. Join.