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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General Questions
Tru-Scapes® landscape lighting is sold through the Oldcastle dealer network. Find a local source on our dealer locator here or use the Belgard dealer locator here. Use your zip code to find the closest dealer to you. All Belgard dealers have access to our products but not all dealers will stock our fixtures.
All Tru-Scapes® products will come with everything included in the box for proper installation. Waterproof wire nuts (or heat shrink connectors), bulbs, and any mounting hardware required will be in the box with the fixture.
Yes, Tru-Scapes® offers a 400w transformer that can be added and controlled through Alexa or Google smart home so you can tell your smart home device to turn the transformer on/off. Additional third-party smart devices can be utilized to control the transformer if it is not smart equipped.
Yes, we highly recommend having a professional contractor with a strong knowledge of LED low voltage lighting installation. This does not mean you need a licensed electrician.
Yes, Tru-Scapes products meet or exceed specifications for commercial low voltage lighting. Please reach out for any addition information needed to have Tru-Scapes approved on a project.
Contact your local Tru-Scapes® dealer to receive pricing. We believe in providing a high quality product at a fair price.
No, Tru-Scapes® supports a professional network of dealers to sell our products.
Only use a mild dish detergent and warm water with a nonabrasive cloth for cleaning any Tru-Scapes lights. Using a strong chemical or solvent cleaner can remove the clear protective coating applied to all fixtures which will void the warranty and can cause discoloration.
Yes, we currently offer a wide range of Bluetooth enabled color changing fixtures. Visit our website to see all the options. The Tru-Scapes smart lamps allow for RGB Color control, Kelvin Temperature adjustment, Dimming and custom scenes.
Tru-Scapes Smart Control lamps with color changing technology allow for dimming. Standard Tru-Scapes® fixtures without the smart lamps do not allow for dimming.
2700 kelvin (warm white) is the default color temperature of all standard Tru-Scapes® products. Color changing fixtures will default to this unless changed in the App.
The modern series of fixtures offers 4000 Kelvin (cool white) to match gray tone materials.
Lumens are the measurement of light emitted from a lamp. More Lumens is brighter, less Lumens is dimmer. The Lumen output can assist in the design and layout of the landscape lighting system.
Yes, the beauty of the Tru-Scapes® system is all product lines (Landscape, Deck, Structures) are designed to run on the same 12v low voltage transformer and wire to create a seamless installation and finished product.
Tru-Scapes® fixtures are IP65 rated. This means that they are rated for installation no closer than 5 feet to a body of water by electrical code.
First ensure that the outlet the transformer is connected to is still providing power, on occasion the GFI Outlet can be tripped due to a power surge. Then check the wires are still securely attached to the terminals inside the transformer. If the outlet is functioning and the wires are securely attached we suggest contacting the installer for assistance. You may also contact us at contacts@tru-scapes.com. There is a variety of reasons this can happen.
To view how bronze fixtures will patina over time, please click here to view the guide.
Transformer Information
First—choose the Tru-Scapes® fixtures to be used and how many of each the project will have. Take our catalog ( here) that has all our fixtures listed with the wattage draw and add it all together to get a total. For example: I have 10 TS-B301’s and 4 TS-B102’s on a job. TS-B301 uses 3 watts so 10 TS-B301 X 3watts =30 watts for TS-B301s. TS-B102 use 4 watts so 4×4=16 watts for TS-B102s. Add these together for the total job wattage. In this example, 16+30=46 total watts, which is what the lights need to operate correctly. DO NOT USE MORE THAN 80% OF TRANSFORMER CAPACITY—THIS IS ELECTRICAL CODE. This rule applies to all transformers and allows for variations of the electrical draw.
All Tru-Scapes® transformers are designed to be easy to set up, all in one units that come with multiple programming options to fit most project requirements. They come installed with a power filter to ensure that the output power does not fluctuate to the lights, ensuring longevity of the lighting fixtures. Our warranty also states that a Tru-Scapes® transformer is required to power our lights for proper warranty coverage in the event of an issue.
5-year warranty against manufacturer defects on all Tru-Scapes® transformers. We cannot provide replacement due to electrical surge or storm damage.
Yes, the TS-TSSW-400-watt transformer offers 2 different programmable zones so you can set independent on/off times for 2 different areas of lights.
There are multiple Com slots on our transformers to limit excessive wire runs. For example, if the transformer is located on the side of the house and the customer wants lights in the front and the back of the house. Use Com 1 to run wire to the front of the house and Com 2 to run another line to the back. Multiple lines also greatly assist in troubleshooting a project if a problem occurs.
Yes. The Tru-Scapes® 100w transformer comes with a built-in photo sensor and offers all night, 4,6, or 8 hour programmed runtimes.
The Tru-Scapes 200w transformer includes a built-in screen that offers Astronomical programming to turn the system on/off.
The Tru-Scapes 400w is a WIFI controlled unit that allows you to set on/off times through our Tru-Scapes App on your mobile device.
The Tru-Scapes® 75w has a built-in pin timer.
The Tru-Scapes® 300w is the only transformer we currently offer that a timer or photocell will need to be purchased separately.
A Tru-Scapes® photocell is a plug-in accessory that works with the 75w and 300w Tru-Scapes® stainless steel transformers (sold separately). There is a short lead (9 inches) or a long lead version (15ft). The photocells have a built-in sensor that registers when the sun is going down and will turn on the lights automatically once it is dark enough. The photocell will also turn off the lights when the sun rises again. The photocell must be placed in an area that is well lit to function properly during the day. Places that are not suitable include a dark or shady corner or under a structure.
Yes, you can install a timer and photocell at the same time on our 75w and 300w transformers. This will allow the lights “On” time to automatically adjust when they turn on through the photocell but shut off at the programmed “Off” time on the timer instead of running all night as the seasons change. Be sure to program the “On” time on the timer before sunset to have this function properly.
Yes, all Tru-Scapes® transformers are rated for outdoor use. The transformer should be mounted a minimum of 18 inches above ground and must be plugged into a GFCI outlet.
The 12/2 main wire consists of two leads—take the wire and pull the 2 strands apart so it looks like a Y. Strip ½ an inch of insulation off both sides of the Y. Take one arm and insert it into a COM slot. Take the remaining wire arm and insert it into a TAP slot. Video being created about this soon.
No, an electrician is not required to install our transformers and fixtures in most areas of the US. Be sure to check the local code to determine if a license is required but as the transformer plugs into a GFI outlet and the lights are only 12V in most areas a licensed electrician is not required. Be sure the exterior outlet is wired to a 20-amp circuit per electrical code.
Most counties and states do not require permits to install low voltage lighting, however, be sure to check with your local codes if a permit is required.
Connections & Wiring
No, with our lighting fixtures the polarity in the wire does not matter. If you do not create a short circuit by putting 2 of the same leads of a fixture into the same wire nut the system will operate correctly.
All Tru-Scapes® fixtures are connected using the same method. See our video here (connection method at 2:40 of video).
We recommend no more than 2 fixtures be connected using the same pair of the included wire nuts. More than 2 fixtures will make the copper connection too large to ensure a proper watertight seal using the silicone gel filled wire nuts provided with all Tru-Scapes® fixtures.
Electrical tape is not required for installation, but some electrical tape is good practice. Even with the wire nuts secured properly over the connection these fixtures are outside exposed to the elements so a small amount of electrical tape to really secure the wire nuts onto the connection is a good idea. A loop of tape or a zip tie on the wire 1 inch below the wire nuts will help reduce strain on the connection point in the event a wire gets pulled on.
This depends on the size of the transformer, the number and type of attached fixtures to the main wire run, and how far between first and last fixture. Generally, it is not an issue with LED lights since their power draw is so low. Wire runs in excess of 100’ or over 100 watts require additional calculations for Voltage Loss
We recommend no more than 20-25 fixtures (100 watts) to be put on a single wire run of 12/2 Low Voltage Landscape Wire. This is to help troubleshoot any problems that occur and helps keep the light quality the same from the first fixture on the wire run to the last fixture on the wire run.
We suggest running wires in areas that have the lowest probability of being cut. Run wires along foundations or along a walkway where possible. Using conduit crossing landscape bed edges or under hardscapes to avoid cuts in the wire from shifting rocks or edging beds. Avoid running wires too close to shrubs or trees so in the future if the plant is removed the wire will not be cut.
Electrical code recommends the low voltage wire be buried minimum 6 inches in the ground.
The first step will be locating the outlet that the transformer will be plugged in to provide power to the system. From there we recommend setting the box of 12/2 wire at the transformer and pulling it out of the box creating a path to the fixtures you are going to power with that main line. Start with the fixture at the end of the wire run and work your way back towards the transformer. This will ensure that you always have enough wire to go from one connection to the next. Once all the lights are installed cut the wire from the box and install the wire into the transformer.
Landscaping Lighting
All the Tru-Scapes path and accent lights are made from solid brass. The TS-PL pillar light series, TS-HPL paver light series, and TS-A6000 hardscape light are made from a high-grade aluminum with a powder coat finish. The TS-DOT and TS-201/203 in-ground light housings are high-grade polymer to resist degradation when installed below ground.
Recommended spacing is 8-10 feet between Path and HPL Paver Light. TS-A6000 Hardscape Lights look best when placed 4-5′ on center on an 18-24″ height wall. Accent lights and well lights are needed for highlighting the home or features in the landscape.
Tru-Scapes® color changing lamps are only included with the A6000-C, 25DOT-C, and the PL102 column light. For all accent and path lights the color changing lamps sold separately from the fixture.
Yes, all Tru-Scapes landscape fixtures have a replaceable light source except the 15DOT, 25DOT, and HPL paver lights.
Hardscape Lighting (A6000 & HPL Paver Light)
The TS-A6000 is the new and improved version of the TS-A1000. The TS-A6000 is a fully replaceable unit with the LED’s and driver that power the light all located inside the replaceable lamp unit. The TS-A6000 also has 12 LED’s instead of the 4 LED TS-A1000 to provide a more even light spread from the fixture.
This is not recommended. The lights have the same lumen output and color output however since the TS-A6000 has 12 smaller LED’s and the TS-A1000 has 4 larger LED’s the lights will not match.
Yes, the Tru-Scapes® HPL paver light is driveway rated with a Tensile strength of 17,000 PSI. We can provide a commercial architectural drawing of this light with all the required measurements and testing for submitting to commercial project designers.
Tru-Scapes® HPL paver light is ¾ of an inch wide and 60 mm high to match industry standard pavers. The fixture offers 6”,8” or 9” lengths to accommodate most common paver sizes.
Tru-Scapes® HPL paver light was designed to fit in the border course of pavers along a walkway or patio. A light can be placed in along the border when installing the pavers without having to cut or drill the pavers to fit. Connections are recommended on the outside of the patio for easy access.
Tru-Scapes® Deck Lighting
All Tru-Scapes® cap lights are a 1-piece design and will pressure fit on top of the matching post.
TS-C125- fits 2.5” black aluminum posts
TS-C130- fits 3” black aluminum posts
TS-C104- fits 4” white vinyl posts variety of companies
TS-C145- fits Trex® Transcend post
TS-C150- fits Timbertech® Radiance post
Tru-Scapes® TS-C140, TS-C145, and TS-C150 are made of an aerospace high grade poly plastic that ensures they will not fade over time and can stand up to any climate they are installed in. Tru-Scapes® TS-C125 and TS-C130 are powder coated aluminum.
All Tru-Scapes® deck products are covered under a 5-year warranty provided a Tru-Scapes® transformer is used to power lighting fixtures. View our full deck warranty here.
Yes, we currently offer our step riser lights (3 inch and 6 inch), 2.5” dot lights, C140 4”, and our C145 4.5” in a color changing version with more coming soon.
All products come in a white, black or brown finish expect the C125(black only), C130 (Black only), and C140 (white only).
This is a design and aesthetics choice. If you are looking for a brighter lighting effect, use the TS-A1001 since it provides more light with 4 LED’s. For a softer lighting effect use the TS-A501 since it contains 1 LED.
½ inch overhang is required to install the TS-A501 or TS-A1001 step riser lights.
Yes, there are plans to launch more color finishes soon.
The TP-ST100 is the only Tru-Scapes® product that is currently solar powered. All other lighting products require a low voltage transformer and wire connection.
All our deck lighting is designed to be wired using the daisy chain method. No special plugs or set wire lengths. Run 1 wire from the transformer to all your lights. When ready to install the lights cut the main wire and splice the light fixture into the main wire.
Tru-Post® Lighting & Accessories
Tru-Post® products fit black 2” and 2.5” black aluminum fence, 4” white vinyl, Trex® Transcend Posts, and there is a universal wood mount for all other applications.
Yes, push down on the top and twist to remove. Use the included funnel to refill the canister and ensure that the rubber seal is still in place before screwing back on the cap.
The only difference between these 2 fixtures is the style. The TP-101WLA has a wider hat at 8” on top while the TP-103WLA has a 6” hat on top. Both provide the same light coverage area and lumen output.
Yes, the Tru-Post® Planter basket does come included with a coco liner at purchase.
All Tru-Post® products come with the cap style selected at purchase plus any applicable hardware to complete the installation.
TP-WL101A and TP-WL103A include light bulb, wire nuts, and riser stem.
TP-PB124 Planter Basket includes basket, coco liner, and riser stem.
TP-OL12SS Tiki Torch includes funnel for refilling, wick, and riser stem.
Structure Lighting
Yes, all Tru-Scapes Structure lights come out of the box with our color changing technology except the Bistro String lights.
No, Tru-Scapes® structure lights are integrated fixtures so the only bulbs that can be replaced are the Bistro Light bulbs.
Yes, once the lights are powered on and connected to the Tru-Scapes Color App, you have full control over the color of the lights and the brightness.
This is because all structures lights come built in with our color changing technology, so the lights are flashing to indicate that they are in pairing mode. You will need to connect them to the Tru-Scapes Color app. Once connected they will not flash when powering on.
The mounting brackets for the sconce lights are preinstalled on the back of the lights in the packaging. The bracket will either twist off for the soffit light or need the set screws loosened to remove the bracket from the fixture for proper installation.
We recommend no more than 100 ft (8 strands) connected in sequence due to voltage drop.
Yes, for the up down sconce and the slim post mount sconce you can independently control the top light from the bottom light once they are connected to the Tru-Scapes Color App.
Color Changing Lights
No, Tru-Scapes® color light connects directly from the fixture to your device. If the fixture is receiving enough power and turns on you will be able to connect to the lights.
Yes, once the lights are connected to the Color App you can adjust the kelvin from 2700 (warm white) up to 5500 Kelvin (cool white).
Yes, once the lights are added to the Color App you can create “Groups” inside the app that will allow you to change multiple fixtures all at once. This does not remove the individual controls for the fixtures. It will add another button for the group on the home screen of the color app.
The colors you can select are unlimited with the full color wheel and the contrast slider on the bottom of the screen to allow for further customization.
Upon initial installation and adding the lights to the app, the recommended range is 30 feet with a good line of site. Once the lights are connected to the app they will create a network and talk to each other—giving you a much broader range of control.
No, all Tru-Scapes® color lights are controlled through Bluetooth.
Yes, using the bottom slider on the app will allow you to adjust the brightness of the lights.
No, all scheduled programming for on/off times must still be done through the transformer and you must be in range of your lights to change any colors/settings.
Yes, once a “Home” is created and all the lights are added to the Color App you can add additional members on the app for them to have control over the lights.
Discontinued Products
The transformers come with 2 preloaded programs (dusk to midnight, dusk to dawn) that cannot be deleted. You can edit these programs by clicking on them and by deselecting the “active days” it will keep the transformer from automatically turning on the lights.
Steps to resolve connection problems:
Are you within 30 feet of the transformer with no obstruction?
Pull the home screen down on the Tru-Scapes® Smart Lighting app to have it refresh the scan.
Delete the app and reinstall and try again.
Unplug transformer for 15 MINUTES and plug back in.
If none of the above resolves the problem email our help desk at support@tru-scapes.com.
Upon installation the fault light will automatically come on until a phone is connected. After this check wiring connections, a crossed wire will turn the system off and turn on the fault light.
Check to make sure the transformer is large enough to handle the number of fixtures connected.
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Our team takes pride in a simple product line that is is constructed with premier materials.
F. A. Q
More FAQs
Information can be found online throughout our resource pages, through your contractor or dealer, or directly through contacting us.
Our warranty is outlined on the warranty page.
At this time you cannot purchase certain products directly from Tru-Scapes®. You can find deck and structure lighting products at: truscapesdecklighting.com.
For this information you will need to speak with your local dealer or contractor.
We ship orders all week long. We use premier shipping methods and most of our dealers across the nation stay stocked with products.
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