Replies

1. 
   cap | Mar 13, 2007 07:20am | #1

   Brad,

   I wrote the article, so let me explain why.

   You're not the first person to ask.  One reader wrote a letter to the editor with the same question.  I wish I had the space to explain stuff in more detail--it's a real dilemma.

   Anyway, the issue is heat.  The transformers produce a good bit of heat, and the concern is that mounting 'em in a building might lead to a restriction of the airflow needed for cooling. 

   I can see that; if the tranny is in a garage, for instance, the stuff that usually accumulates in garages is probably going to be piled up around it.  Result--restricted airflow, heat buildup, maybe the tranny fails early due to insulation breakdown, or maybe enough heat builds up to start a fire, if there's paper or other easily combustible stuff touching the transformer case.

   Cliff 

    

1. 
   BradEcho | Mar 13, 2007 05:29pm | #2

   That's what I thought. So basically the transformer manufacturer puts that spec in to cover their butt in case someone does an install without using a bit of common sense. I was planning on installing one in my basement on a plywood utility panel that is has nothing around it. The other in the garage was going to go on another plywood panel about 5 feet off the ground. Thanks for the quick response.

2. 
   Jamie_Buxton | Mar 13, 2007 05:57pm | #3

   Or you can buy power supplies intended for interior lighting use.   You save the cost of the weatherproofing required in garden lighting.  For instance http://www.pegasusassociates.com/products/Transformers/ElectronicTransformers.html

1. 
   cap | Mar 13, 2007 07:20pm | #4

   Jamie,

   Interesting site.  Thanks for sharing. 

   Imagine someone's consternation trying to measure the voltage from one of the electronic transformers with a non-RMS voltmeter, or in a no-load condition!

   Cliff