DEWENWILS HOSL02C 60W 24V DC Transformer with Timer and Photocell

The DEWENWILS HOSL02C is a compact transformer that converts 120V household AC to 24V DC, with a maximum output of 60W. It includes a photocell for dusk-to-dawn operation and a countdown timer, so it can switch outdoor lighting on and off automatically. It is built for LED lights rather than halogen.

DC rather than AC

Many landscape transformers produce low-voltage AC. This one produces 24V direct current. That matters because the connected equipment must be designed for 24V DC. DEWENWILS lists spotlights, step lights, LED landscape lights, garden, pathway, deck and in-ground lights, along with 24V DC water valves, sprinklers and LED billboard lights. It specifically says the transformer is not for halogen lights.

Dusk to dawn and the countdown timer

A photocell is a light sensor. The transformer turns on automatically at dusk and off at dawn. A second setting turns it on at dusk and off after 2, 4, 6 or 8 hours, which is useful if you only want lights during the evening. DEWENWILS says a memory function keeps the last selected mode through a power outage.

Installation and weather resistance

The unit has built-in hanging holes and a 3.3 ft (about 1 m) cord, so it can be mounted directly on an outdoor wall. The body is described as weatherproof against rain, snow, dust and abrasion. It weighs about 1.3 lb (590 g) and measures roughly 2 x 4 x 4 inches (5 x 10 x 10 cm). Because the cord is short, the plug has to be near a suitable outlet.

Protection and certification

An automatic circuit breaker gives overload and short-circuit protection. The listing states ETL certification. As with any electrical product, a certification mark is a starting point; follow the manual and local codes.

Who it suits

A 60W, 24V DC supply is a small unit, aimed at modest outdoor setups: a handful of LED path or step lights, a short run of deck lighting, or a single 24V DC sprinkler valve. LED fixtures typically draw a few watts each, so 60W goes a fair way, but it is not intended for a large property with many fixtures.

Polarity and wiring

Direct current has a positive and a negative side, unlike AC. Connecting a DC device the wrong way round can stop it working or damage it, so check the fixture's markings and the transformer's terminals before wiring. The manual explains the connections for this model.

What to check before you buy

• Voltage type. Your lights or valves must be 24V DC, and not 12V AC.
• Total load. All connected devices together must stay under 60W.
• Bulb type. The listing excludes halogen lights.
• Sprinkler or valve compatibility if you plan to use it for irrigation, including the voltage the valve needs.
• Distance to an outlet, given the 3.3 ft cord, and where the photocell will see natural light rather than a nearby lamp.
• If in doubt about outdoor wiring, hire a qualified electrician.

The short version

• 60W maximum, 120V AC in and 24V DC out.
• Dusk-to-dawn photocell and a 2, 4, 6 or 8 hour countdown after dusk.
• Remembers its mode after a power outage.
• Weatherproof body with a 3.3 ft cord, circuit breaker and ETL listing.

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