Nova is an adjustable garden spike spotlight sold in two very differentbodies at two very different prices: 316 stainless steel, orblack powder-coated aluminium at roughly two-thirds the cost. The light isidentical either way a replaceable 5W MR16 LED globe givingthe same output from both so this listing is a straight decision about how hard theposition is on the fitting, not about performance.

The choice to make: 316 stainless or black aluminium

• HV1462T-SS316 316 marine-grade stainless steel. The corrosionresistance is the metal itself, so a scratch from a mower or gravel does not start afailure. This is the version for coastal gardens, pool surrounds and anywhere salt-ladenair reaches.
• HV1462T-BLK powder-coated aluminium. Lighter, notably cheaperand visually the quieter of the two in a mulched bed, but the coating is what protects it,and a chip is a weak point. The right choice for a sheltered inland garden.

Since output and price of the globe are the same, spend the difference only where theenvironment earns it. A front bed in Adelaide does not need 316; a beachfront garden atCronulla does.

Where it works

• Coastal and beachfront gardens specify the 316 stainlessversion where salt spray carries.
• Pool and spa surrounds, where chlorinated and salt-treated splashreaches the fitting.
• Uplighting trees and tall planting in an inland bed, where the blackversion does the same job for less.
• Driveway and boundary beds, aimed along a fence line with the headtilted to keep the beam off the road.

Specifying it

The base is MR16 on both variants and the globe isreplaceable. Replacements must be MR16 rated for 12V DC; an MR11 orGU10 lamp will not fit and must not be forced in. Nova is12V DC and requires a 12V DC LED driver, and mustnever be connected directly to 240V doing so destroys thefitting and voids the warranty.

Rated IP65 on both variants, covering direct rain, sprinklers andground moisture. Tri-colour selectable at install, paired identically on both part numbersas 270lm at 3000K, 285lm at 4000K and 300lm at 5500K,over a 90 beam with 90 tilt. Supplied with a 170mm spike and a 2mreinforced cable. Installation by a licensed electrician.

Backed by a 3-year replacement warranty.

Supplied by Lights For You the two Nova variants are the same light at differentprices, so tell us how close the garden is to salt water and we will say whether the 316stainless premium is money well spent on your site.

Earthing and protection class

This fitting runs on 12 V DC and is Protection Class 3 no earth is required at the fitting. The isolation comes from the LED driver rather than from an earth conductor, and the fitting must never be connected directly to 240 V.

Questions

Is the stainless steel version brighter?

No. Both give 270lm at 3000K, 285lm at 4000K and300lm at 5500K from the same 5W MR16 globe. The difference is the bodymaterial, not the light.

Which version should I buy?

Take HV1462T-SS316 near the coast or a pool, where 316 stainlessresists corrosion through the metal itself. Take the cheaper HV1462T-BLK for a shelteredinland garden, where a powder coat is adequate.

Can the globe be replaced?

Yes, on both variants. It takes an MR16 LED globe, and the replacementmust also be MR16 rated for 12V DC.

Does it need a driver?

Yes a 12V DC LED driver sized for every fitting on therun. Never connect it directly to 240V mains.

Will the black finish hold up outdoors?

In a sheltered inland bed, yes. The coating is what protects it, sochips from mowers, edgers and gravel are the thing to avoid. Near salt air the 316stainless body is the durable option.

Can I aim it after installation?

Yes. The head tilts through 90, so the beam can be set once the170mm spike is in and re-aimed as the planting grows.

Is IP65 suitable for a spike in soil?

Yes. It covers direct rain and sprinkler spray. Keep the body clear ofthe soil line so water drains away from the cable entry rather than pooling.