FAQs
Shipping
How much will shipping cost?
We offer free standard shipping within the U.S., along with paid expedited shipping options on select products. For more details, please refer to our Shipping and Returns Policy.
Can you provide worldwide shipping?
Yes. For international orders, we require a minimum order of $500 USD (before shipping charges). Please note that free shipping does not apply to international orders.
The recipient is responsible for any import taxes, duties, and additional fees imposed by the destination country. These charges are determined by local customs authorities, and we do not have control over or visibility into these costs, as policies vary by country. We recommend contacting your local customs office for more information. Please also note that customs clearance procedures may cause delays in delivery.
Due to higher shipping costs and duties, international customers are responsible for shipping fees related to warranty replacements, returns, and exchanges.
My Order
How can I cancel my order?
For orders that have not yet shipped, please call our hotline at 866-294-7174 so our team can process the cancellation and notify the warehouse to place the order on hold.
Once an order has shipped, it can no longer be canceled. In that case, the item will need to be returned to us to proceed with a refund request.
What if I receive the wrong product?
Once you receive your order, please inspect if everything is correct. If you receive an incorrect item, please contact us at 866-294-7174 as soon as possible to request a return or exchange. If possible, please prepare a photo of the item that was received and send it over to our email address at KingsOutdoorLighting@gmail.com. Once confirmed, we will provide instructions and cover the return shipping costs. A replacement or refund will be processed after the item has been handed over to the courier.
Do you offer exchanges for faulty items?
Yes. If you receive a faulty or defective item, please contact us within 30 days of delivery to request an exchange. Once the issue is confirmed, we will provide return instructions. Please note that photo or video documentation may be requested to help determine whether the issue is related to the product or the installation. A replacement will be processed after the item has been returned and inspected.
Product
How do I return my product?
To return a product, please use our Returns Portal: https://kingsoutdoorlighting.com/apps/redo/returns-portal/login
- Log in to the portal with your order information.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to submit your return request.
- Once your request is approved, you will receive a return authorization and instructions.
- Pack the item securely and ship it according to the provided instructions.
- After we receive and inspect the item, your refund or replacement will be processed.
Please ensure all returns comply with our Returns Policy.
How do I care for my product?
To ensure long-lasting performance, follow these care tips:
- Keep it clean: Wipe lights and fixtures with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Prevent water buildup: Unless the product is rated IP68, install it in a location with proper drainage.
- Check connections: Periodically inspect wires, plugs, and connectors to ensure they are secure and free from damage.
- Handle carefully: Avoid bending or twisting LED strips or fragile components beyond their design limits.
Following these guidelines will help extend the life of your products and maintain their appearance.
Do you offer extended warranties?
We do not offer extended warranties at this time. However, we are committed to assisting with any issues you may have and will work with you to provide the proper resolution, even beyond the standard warranty period.
Transformers & Low Voltage Power
Can I use extension cords for low-voltage lights?
Not recommended for permanent installations. Only use outdoor-rated, low-voltage extension cables temporarily.
Wiring & Electrical
Wire gauge should match both run length and total wattage. Longer runs or higher wattage require thicker wire to prevent voltage drop.
Check out our landscape wiring and see the chart for your guidance.
What is voltage drop, and why does it matter?
- Voltage drop occurs when electricity loses power along a long wire run.
- It can cause LEDs to dim, flicker, or fail prematurely.
- Prevent by using higher voltage (24V), thicker gauge wire, or multiple power injection points.
How do I size a transformer?
- Calculate total wattage: Watts Per Bulb × Total Bulbs
- Add 10–15% headroom for safety.
- If you will be using a 100W transformer, just use maximum load of 85-90W only.
- For long and heavy load runs, consider splitting lights across multiple transformers.
Can I overload a transformer or controller?
- Exceeding max wattage or pixels can cause flickering, overheating, or permanent failure.
- Always leave 10–15% buffer for safety.
- For controllers or adapters, always check the amp rating to ensure it can handle your load. For example, if the device is rated 2.5 A and you are using 12 V, the maximum power it can safely handle is: 2.5A x 12V = 30W
- Exceeding this limit may cause overheating, malfunction, or permanent damage.
Can I add more lights to an existing system?
- Yes, but calculate total wattage to ensure the transformer can handle the load.
- For long runs, consider splitting into multiple zones with separate controllers or transformers.
Can I upgrade my existing lights to RGB or RGBW?
- Yes, you can upgrade your lights, but the controller must be compatible with the new light type. Mixing different light types on a single controller can cause malfunctions or inconsistent behavior.
- Additionally, some smart fixtures retain their settings only when they have continuous power and are turned off using the app or a scheduled program. If power is cut via a transformer timer or switch, the lights may reset to their default color or mode.
- If possible, keep the smart and regular fixtures on a separate zone or transformer.
Technical Questions
Low-Voltage Outdoor Lighting Dimming Guide
What is dimming?
- Dimming reduces the brightness of LED lights, allowing for custom ambiance, energy savings, and longer LED lifespan.
- Not all low-voltage LEDs or controllers are dimmable—check specifications before attempting.
Key considerations:
- Dimmable LEDs: Ensure the lights are marked “dimmable.”
- Controller/Dimmer rating: Check maximum load (Wattage) and voltage.
- Smart compatibility: Some controllers only dim via apps or schedules, not manual wall dimmers.
Example: 12V LED strip draws 30W. Use a dimmer or controller rated at ≥30W.
Installation Tips:
- Check polarity: DC dimmers require correct positive and negative connections.
- Avoid overloading: Never exceed the dimmer or controller’s wattage rating. Some dimmers only have as low as 30W limit while others up to 180W or more, so always double-check.
- Separate zones: For long LED runs, split into multiple sections and dim each section individually to prevent voltage drop and uneven brightness.
Use waterproof dimmers/controllers outdoors: If installed outside, ensure all devices are IP65 or higher.
If you attempt to dim a non-dimmable bulb or fixture, it will flicker, make buzzing noise and cause permanent damaged to the dimmer and the LED itself.
Can I install lights myself or should I hire a professional?
Many low-voltage installations are DIY-friendly. However, larger projects or installations near water or pools should be handled by a licensed electrician for safety and compliance.
Can LED Bistro String Lights be cut or extended?
- Some products (e.g., SL101, SL102) can be cut and insulated, but this voids the warranty.
- Flexible options like SL103 allow you to clip bulbs wherever needed without cutting.
My LED strip is flickering or dimming—what should I do?
It is recommended to keep 12V LED strip lights to a maximum of 5 meters and 24V strips to a maximum of 10 meters. For longer runs, you may need to power the strip from both ends or divide it into multiple sections.
To ensure proper operation:
- Verify that the power supply is sufficient for the total wattage.
- Make sure power injection points are installed where needed.
- Confirm all connections are secure.
- Check the controller output and wiring polarity.
LED Strip Not Lighting at All
- Confirm the power supply is turned on and properly connected.
- Check the controller is powered and paired (if using a smart controller).
- Inspect the strip for visible damage or disconnected segments.
- Test the strip with a shorter section to isolate the issue.
Common Troubleshooting for Outdoor Fixtures
One light fixture not turning on
- Check wiring for loose or corroded connections.
- Verify transformer output and polarity.
- Swap with a known working fixture to isolate the problem.
- Connect the path light directly to the transformer to see if it will light up.
- Use a multimeter to check if there is any breaks in the wiring.
Multiple light fixtures not turning on
- Check transformer output.
- Inspect wiring for loose or corroded connections.
- Ensure switches or timers are set correctly.
- Check if you can swap out bulbs from a working fixture to another
- If possible, take the fixture and directly connect it to the transformer to rule out any wiring issues
- If capable, use multimeter to check if we're getting any power reading from the sockets of the fixtures
My lights flicker – what should I check?
- Verify voltage and wattage compatibility.
- Transformer capacity vs load. Avoid overloading transformer.
- Secure all connections and avoid moisture intrusion.
- If we have use long runs, use a multimeter to see if we're still within the voltage range. If the voltage drops below 10V, we might replace the wiring with a thicker gauge.
- If the transformer has multiple taps (e.g. 13V, 14V, 15V), we can transfer the tap from the regular 12V to a higher one to see if it fixes the issue.
Can low-voltage lights be installed near water?
Yes, low-voltage lights can be installed near water, but only if the fixtures are specifically rated for wet or damp locations, typically IP65 up to IP68. These ratings indicate the fixture is water-resistant or fully waterproof.
Important considerations:
- Proper drainage: Avoid water pooling around the fixture. Standing water can damage lights or create electrical hazards, even if the fixture is IP65-rated.
- Waterproof connections: Use waterproof connectors or junction boxes to protect wiring from moisture. Standard connectors or open splices are not safe for wet locations.
- Mounting location: Keep transformers and controllers in dry, elevated areas, away from direct water exposure.
- Regular inspection: Periodically check outdoor lights for corrosion, loose fittings, or water intrusion. Early maintenance prevents failure.
By following these guidelines, your low-voltage lights can safely enhance ponds, fountains, pools, or wet gardens while maintaining performance and longevity.
IP rating guidance for water applications
- IP67: Suitable for areas around pools, but cannot be submerged.
- IP68 pond lights: Safe to install inside ponds, but not in swimming pools where swimmers could damage them.
- IP68 dedicated pool lights: Only these are approved for installation inside pools or jacuzzis.
By following these guidelines, your low-voltage lights can safely enhance ponds, fountains, pools, or wet gardens while maintaining performance, safety, and longevity.
What precautions should I take around fountains or waterfalls?
- Keep wiring and transformers elevated and dry.
- Use GFCI outlets for safety.
- Inspect seals and waterproof connections regularly.
- Use only IP68-rated fixtures if it will be submerged into water.
Materials and Maintenance
How often should I inspect my landscape lighting?
At least once a year, ideally before the rainy season. Check for corrosion, loose connections, and proper alignment.
Choosing the Right Material
How do I decide which material to use?
- Brass: For premium, long-lasting fixtures with classic aesthetics.
- Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and budget-friendly.
- Plastic: Affordable, lightweight, and resistant to rust; ideal for small or temporary installations.
- Stainless Steel: Modern look, durable, and suitable for harsh weather or wet locations.
Stainless Steel Fixtures
Stainless steel is a strong, corrosion-resistant alloy of iron, chromium, and sometimes nickel.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and corrosion-resistant.
- Sleek, modern look; ideal for contemporary designs.
- Can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Cons:
- More expensive than aluminum or plastic.
- Can show fingerprints or water spots, requiring occasional polishing.
Maintenance:
- Wipe down with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints or water spots.
Mild soap and water are sufficient; avoid chlorine-based cleaners which may damage the finish.
Brass fixtures
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc known for its durability, corrosion resistance, and premium appearance.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and corrosion-resistant.
- Naturally weather-resistant for outdoor use.
- Develops a patina over time, giving a classic look.
Cons:
- More expensive than aluminum or plastic.
- Heavier than other materials, which may require sturdier mounting.
Maintenance:
- Brass can be polished to maintain its shine, or left to naturally develop a patina.
- Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap; avoid harsh chemicals.
Aluminum fixtures
Aluminum is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal commonly used for outdoor lighting.
Pros:
- Lightweight, easy to install.
- Naturally resistant to rust; ideal for wet environments.
- Affordable and available in many finishes and colors.
Cons:
- Less impact-resistant than brass or stainless steel.
- Can scratch or dent more easily.
Maintenance:
- Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap.
- Powder-coated finishes provide additional protection against corrosion.
ABS/Plastic fixtures?
Plastic fixtures are made from durable polymers designed for outdoor use, often reinforced with UV inhibitors.
Pros:
- Lightweight and inexpensive.
- Resistant to rust, corrosion, and UV damage.
- Ideal for DIY installations or areas where metal may be overkill.
Cons:
- Less durable than metal; can crack or fade over time.
- Less premium appearance compared to metal fixtures.
Maintenance:
- Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners that may scratch or degrade the plastic.