We have 12V low voltage halogen lamps which have been breaking. Turns out the transformers had fused. We changed about 10 transformers and within 3 months 5 of them have fused again. I've checked the lamps and they are fine. Oddly, it is the same fittings which blew the first time. What would cause this?

Mark, March 2008

Why did you change 10? Were they all gone??

I s there aything else in circuit ie fluorescents or extract fan.

These in my experience can cause "issues" if in the same circuit as LV.

Steve, March 2008

Could be the transformers are not rated correctly, check the rating of the transformers against the wattage of the bulb (or bulbs if more than one connected to the transformer)

insufficient ventilation - transformers need to be clear of the bulb and housing and have adequate ventilation

Try soft start transformers as these are not as 'stressed' when the bulbs are switched on

Mr Handy Andy, March 2008