[Lawn Lad]

We have an existing customer that we do the maintenance work on, someone did the installation prior to our taking over the property.

The problem is a run of path lights that went out, so we replaced the wire which was corroded at each connection. The lights have gone out again. If we replaced the wire, and the whole run is going out, I'm inclined to think there may be an issue with the transformer. What happens to transformers over time and how do you know when they go bad (other than completely not working). Because this problem has been intermittent, we're scratching our noodles a bit.

Thanks for any suggestions.

[RHayden]

What type of timer is the xfrmr equipped with? Maybe a solar eye involved? Those are usually the 2 main problem items for us. Although we did have one xfrmr go completely out this summer. Try bypassing these items if you can and see if the lights remain on and the voltage stays constant.

If its not the timer or solar cell- or possibly the main power source- you'll wind up sending it in for repair which might not make sense if its an older unit. Might be just as cheap to replace with your preferred brand and have the warranty.

Start checking voltage at various points to isolate the problem. As always, be aware of the local codes as far as when you need a licensed electrician etc.....and remember, safety first.

[4seasons]

are the bulbs bi-pins?
if you get any fingerprints on the glass they tend to burnout faster.
I second the issues with the timers going bad inside the box.

[PSUscaper]

First of all, what kind of lights are these, and what kind of transformer. I will say right from the start, if they are box store lights, just replace the transformer. If not, I'd start by replacing the timer and photocell, and then go from there.

[nightscapespaul]

Are these lights the only ones on this transformer? How many lights are there? How many watts each? What size wire is serving this run? Is it run in a daisy chain, T, loop, or hub? What size transformer is it? What is the manufacture of this equipment? If you can answer these questions, I can probably tell you what's wrong.

[Inspired]

Some transformers have circuit breakers that will make the lights turn on and off. Paul has good questions. Are these the only lights on the transformer? You have to try and isolate the fault.