New Pool Light

[Tredge]

I have an old Amerlite Niche and 300Watt 12V light.
The Transformer is dead and the gasket seals in the light housing are all shot.

Clearly I need a new light....but should I replace the transformer or just install 120V instead?

Any recommendations?

[thepoolman1]

A 12 volt light is always safer in a pool. It may be a code requirement in your area. After that, it all depends on how hard it would be to get 120 volts (and a ground wire if not already there) to the junction box. I've seen many older 12 volt installations where a ground was not run from the panel or transformer to the j-box.

Just a few things to consider.

[Tredge]

I've got a grouding wire to the light.

Is there a difference between a 12V and 120V fixture? They look the same to me and it looks as if I can put a 120V bulb in the 12V fixture if I were to run 120 to it.

The only thing I can see is that the 12V cabling is a little "thicker".

[thepoolman1]

The fixture itself is basically the same. If you go with a 120v light, make sure that a properly installed GFCI is in the light circuit. It's best to have a good pool tech or electrician familiar with pools to install this.

[jonnygib]

go 12 volt!!!! keep the deadly 120 away from your pool. Your life and the life of others isn't worth the risk. We had a family die not too long ago around here with a 120v light problem.

Keep the transformer next to the house. The reason the wire is thicker for a 12 volt system is that it is pulling higher amperage than a 120 volt system.