I know some have used them. Seems they are all designed for outdoor use only. Is that a problem?
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Are you talking about the 24-volt AC ones that drive sprinkler systems? or the ones used for Malibu lights?
Pretty sure some folks are using the Malibu ones for accessories. I think one person might be Dale H (sorry Dale, if that's not correct), but I can't really remember anyone specifically. I can't see where outdoor use would be a problem indoors? An indoor being used outdoors would be a problem.
Try a search here for: malibu transformer
I use a 12V one made for commercial signage use on my layout and another on our modular. Used for accessories and lighting. They work great. The ones I use provide two separate 10 amp outputs, that's 240 watts! Pure sine wave.
Ed
ps. made for outdoor or indoor signs
I am using a 300 watt commercial grade Malibu that was given to me by a relative who is a landscaper.
it puts out 12V AC and has 2 channels. I use 1 channel for lighting and accessories.
I converted the 2nd channel to DC For misc. stuff.
I think the only real difference between indoor and outdoor is the weather proofing and probably the circuit breaker on the exterior one.
I would be cautious of using an old one that has seen some usage.
The landscape transformer is terrific and has worked great for me for 5 or so years.
Ed
Originally Posted by Ed Walsh:
I am using a 300 volt commercial grade Malibu that was given to me by a relative who is a landscaper.
it puts out 12V AC and has 2 channels. I use 1 channel for lighting and accessories.
I converted the 2nd channel to DC For misc. stuff.
I think the only real difference between indoor and outdoor is the weather proofing and probably the circuit breaker on the exterior one.
I would be cautious of using an old one that has seen some usage.
The landscape transformer is terrific and has worked great for me for 5 or so years.
Ed
... you mean 300 watts!
Ed
Oh wow! Yes indeed I meant 300 watts.
Ed
It's OK... that's why they say, "Two 'eds are better than one!"
I have 2 of them powering lights on my layout. Both are 300 watt units similar to the Malibu units, but store brand which were less expensive. They have been in service for more than 5 years without any trouble. These are quite robust and seem like a reasonably priced source of power for lights or accessories that operate at 12 volts.
Thanks everyone I bought a Malibu one for use with low voltage lighting and it just said for outdoor use only.
I thought maybe they overheat if inside but then again they have to withstand hot summers.
I use one of the Malibu type ones also. So does Jim Barrett. Matter of fact several years ago Jim alerted us on this forum that Home Depot was selling them at blow out prices because they were being replaced with a new model. Lots of us forum members got them. One of the good things about being a forum member is sharing this kind of info.
.....
Dennis
I have the Home Depot sale transformer powering my accessories.
I have a outdoor lighting transformer that will power building and other lighting......when I get that far....it was free from a friend redoing is lights.
our club has 7 Malibu's some 100 watt, some 200 watt.
Look for these on blow out sales in spring when new model lights & transformers are coming out and fall when stores want to get rid of excess inventory. Also check E-Bay, Craiglist, QVC, & yard sales for great deals. Just remember these do put out a lot of wattage & heat so allow space for air flow for safety like any transformer.
