rd-lighting

Ideas For Patio and Deck Lighting With Outdoor Solar Lights

2009-02-24T07:49:00.000-08:00

If you have a patio or deck then you need outdoor lighting to illuminate it and the area around it at night.

Even if you do not use your patio or deck at night you should have sensor lights close by for security and safety reasons. And now you can do all this cheaply with solar powered lights.

Firstly lights that come on when someone approaches are great for deterring the casual thief and secondly if you need to go on to your deck or patio at night a lamp will come on automatically to light your way and ensure you do not slip or bump into anything.

There are lots of different clever and innovative ways to illuminate different aspects of your patio or deck. Lights can be installed in almost any location on, in and around your patio or deck to give you the desired lighting effect.

When you install patio solar lights you are able to create just the right atmosphere to get the sort of style and ambience that you prefer. And of course by mixing different lighting effects you can use different combinations for different occasions making the use of solar patio lights and solar deck lights extremely versatile.

The main thing that helps you with obtaining this versatility is the fact that there are just so many types of solar lighting for patios and decks all with a different and unique applications. And best of all they are all really easy to install so that you can do it yourself cheaply and in your own time.

Lanterns

The tradition lantern is a standard for most patio deck areas and now you can get all the same traditional and more recent designs powered by solar energy. If the location for the lantern is not in sunlight all day then don't worry but just get a solar outdoor light which has a separate mini solar panel for charging the battery and locate the panel in a sun lit area.

Motion Sensor Lights

These are essential for home safety and security and once again these are all available in the traditional and modern designs you would associate with sensor lights. Only now you can get them as a solar powered option and of course these require no outlet or other electric wiring and so are easy to install and can be located wherever you like.

Step Lights

These are extremely useful for lighting your way in tricky areas to or from your patio. They actually illuminate the steps so you see exactly where you are going. This makes it easier for you and your family to get around at night and lessens the chance of that occasional slip which can sometimes be so painful.

Post Lights and Lamps

The traditional post lamp which sits on top of a post on your patio or deck is now available as a solar light and there are new close fitting solar powered post lights which also fit on top of the post which create an upward light without you even knowing that they are there. These are very effective in giving a special and unusual lighting effect.

Torches

Specially shaped solar powered lights that look like the normal flame torches (without the flame of course) are also now available in almost any style you can think of and these are great for producing a striking ambient lighting effect.

Use Your Imagination

There are still more solar lights which have been designed specifically for use on decks and patios. Just about any type of outdoor solar lighting can be use to give a different effect. Try using rope lights along or under railings or around pickets or posts.

You can also get solar lights for hanging under large sun umbrellas or for centre of table lighting. And do not forget Christmas and other festive occasions or parties when you can use special solar lights designed just for those occasions.

Only your imagination will limit what you can do for your deck or patio with outdoor solar lights. The good news is that whatever you do with solar lights it is going to be cheap and you will have lots of fun.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/ideas-for-patio-and-deck-lighting-with-outdoor-solar-lights-472931.html

Restaurant Lighting

2009-02-23T07:07:00.000-08:00

by.Russell Neal

Restaurant lighting by a skilled and multi-disciplinary design firm will enhance the specific interior design, ambiance, furnishings, and decorations that distinguish a fine restaurant as a unique, exclusive establishment. Because of the many points of differentiation that make an upscale restaurant truly one of a kind, each restaurant lighting system features a high level of customization and specialized lighting effects specific to the individual client. By gaining a clear picture of the many lighting layers and lighting effects, a lighting system can be custom engineered and installed that will synthesize each of these various elements into an individualized restaurant lighting theme that reflects and enhances key elements of design, ambiance, atmosphere, and patronage.

In order to achieve the appropriate lighting levels and effects necessary for custom restaurant lighting, it is necessary for lighting professionals to cross train periodically in parallel industries. When developing a restaurant lighting theme, consultants often draw from partnerships with architectural and an interior design firm whose imparted expertise enables them to catch the subtleties of building style and ornate decorum with just the right mood, level, and colors of light. Things such as ceiling height, coves, placement and position of tables, entrances and hallways, color and texture of flooring and carpet, and fine are decorations all can function as anchors around which the lighting design system is developed.

Additionally, windows are very important considerations for the restaurant lighting designer to take into account. Windows allow natural light to filter into the room, and this can potentially conflict with interior lighting arrays. A superior design firm will design a system that incorporates available natural light into the illumination of the interior.. For country club, hotel, and resort restaurants, many firms such as ILD in Houston, Texas will develop complimentary exterior, landscape, and architectural lighting themes that completely illuminate and bathe the entire property in light and set apart the building as a more refined, relaxed, and better reality than the surrounding world.

Establishing ambience with low-level accent lighting just inside the front entrance is also a very high priority. This creates a refined, romantic mood that distinguishes the world within the restaurant as a place of enjoyment, comfort, and retreat. Depending on the material build and interior architecture of the entrance, any number of ambient and diffused lighting themes may be created that are characterized by subtle shifts in luminosity and color that calm emotions. This often involves combining accent lighting with indirect lighting that descends gently in a "wash" of light from suspended luminaries or cove lights in the restaurant vestibule ceiling.

Such themes can then be extended into the interior, moving around corners and around the walls with decorative lighting fixtures and special effects lighting used by colored lamp housings and proprietary lighting projectors.

Overhead recessed lights installed on dimmer switches allow for controlled levels of task lighting and seating areas. This creates visibility without overpowering the eyes. Chandeliers are excellent fixtures to use in this aspect of restaurant lighting design because they create just the right level of lighting in most dining areas and provide ornate, visual pieces suspended above the room.

A good restaurant lighting design reflects the best elements of dining, decorum, and escape. Make certain that all of these elements are appropriately addressed before signing off on a final proposal from a lighting design firm. Custom designers such as Illuminations Lighting will often offer restaurant owners to co-develop the general aspects of what they want to create for their particular establishment and develop a lighting system that expresses client expectation.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/computers-articles/restaurant-lighting-305771.html

Solar Patio Lights – Secure and Accentuate Your Homes

2009-02-22T07:00:00.000-08:00

If you have nice patio in your home property, you can make it better, much warmer and more conducive to evening activities such as parties and intimate get together by installing and maintaining solar patio lights. The great features of your patio can be further enhanced and beatified with the use of such solar outdoor lights.

Such dependable decorative lighting gadgets are these solar patio lights. They come in a variety of sizes and colors. What is more enticing to use these outdoor solar lighting is that there is no expense that you need to pay when it comes to running them. This is because being solar gadgets they get the energy and power needed for them to light up from the rays of the sun. This means no utility or electric bills that one needs to worry about, even if the solar patio lights continue to work and provide useful illumination.

These outdoor solar lights are very versatile because as soon as you install them, it starts to run. There is not need for special installation implements and no electrical cords to worry about. Of course you have to make sure that they are fully exposed to the rays of the sun in order to gather the maximum amount of solar energy. Indeed, you do not have to deal with long cords when assembling these lighting gadgets. Installation can be accomplished within minutes.

Solar patio lights actually are capable of providing soft or strong lights, thereby creating beauty according to the home owner’s preference. Such patio lights are special if only because the bulb that is used is known more popularly as the Light Emitting Diode or LED. These bulbs can give of really soft hue. And also, they can provide brighter illumination.

Indeed, many home owners are now using solar patio lights or any other gadgets for that matter. The sheer ease and convenience of maintaining such sun-powered gadgets makes them very attractive for home owners to purchase. These outdoor solar lights are great in lending added beauty to the patios that your, your friends and perhaps relatives can take advantage of.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/solar-patio-lights-secure-and-accentuate-your-homes-621949.html

Solar Lights - 10 Things to Consider When Selecting Solar Lighting

2009-02-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

by Jerome Sturgeleski

Solar lights have been around for a long time and have greatly improved though the last few years. They come in various sizes, colors, materials and lighting types. Picking the right ones requires a little advanced planning. They can easily be installed anywhere and require no wiring. They only require direct sunlight and they will give you many hours of lighting pleasure.

Some ways to use Solar lightsare:

1. Solar pathway lights. You may want to light up a pathway to your outdoor hot tub, flower garden, and gazebo or even use they as driveway markers.

2. Solar landscape lights. You may want to enhance facets of your landscape. You can do this with sets of landscape lights that can be place anywhere to accentuate whatever you want to bring out.

3. Solar spotlights. You may want to light up a special tree, shrub or flower garden or just light up your house numbers. Many types of solar lights are available to do just that.

4. Solar stepping-stones. You can add a solar stepping-stone as a part of your pathway. These solar stepping-stones come in 12-14 inch square or round shapes have a small light that lights up at night. What a marvelous way to accentuate your pathways.

5. Solar rock lights . Solar rocks are lights in the shape of rocks and are usually spotlights. Their natural looking and add a subtle and practical touch to your yard. They can be intermingled within your rock garden to light up your ponds or pathways or whatever you’d like to light up.

6. Solar security lights. These come in a variety of styles ranging from all night-lights to motion detector lights. These are especially ideal for areas where running wires to them would be impractical. There are models that do can be hard-wired but only use electricity when not enough power has been stored in the rechargeable battery.

7. Solar frog lights. There are solar lights in the shapes of frogs and can be either a spot light or ones that glow in the dark. Image what your guest will say when they see something like this!

8. Solar dog lights. Just like solar frog lights, there are lights that come with dog figures holding a solar lantern. These types of lights can be put almost anywhere. What a great conversation piece these would be. A true addition for the dog aficionado

9. Solar Gnome lights. Gnome figures have become increasingly popular. These come in spotlights and with the gnome holding a lantern. Line your garden path with these whimsical solar gnomes lights.

10. Specialty solar lights. There are many of types of solar lighting solar lights in the form of owls, squirrels, angels, fairies, turtles and many other shapes.

As you can see, there are solar lights for practically any application. All you need is a sunny area to place them in. They do run on rechargeable batteries and they need to recharge during the light of day. Solar lights are relatively in expensive to they afford you the opportunity to experiment.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/solar-lights-10-things-to-consider-when-selecting-solar-lighting-348540.html

Light Up Your Garden or Patio With Solar Lights

2009-02-20T07:51:00.000-08:00

Solar patio lights can turn your patio into a summer living room Iif you spend a lot of evening time outside. They can light up a lot of your patio with a warm glow that will make you want to stay out well into the evening. They will all you to sit quietly or socialize with friends and family over midnight snacks. They will allow you to enjoy your landscaping that you worked so hard to attain.

Solar patio lights come in a variety of different shapes and styles; from pole lights to novelty figures. They come in plain functional designs to very elegant designs. Globes or shades made of plastic, copper or stainless steel are available in a selection of colors and a wide price range. Solar patio lights come in tabletop designs to freestanding lights in traditional, elegant European street lamp styles. Some will have a base that will also serve as a planter box.

You can obtain very subtle lighting by adding solar patio lights installed into the ground around the perimeter of your patio, garden or deck. They are available in a variety of different colors. They can be adjusted to enhance your flowers in your garden or to just light up areas that you want to accent.

The only thing you have to be concerned with solar patio lights is that you need to place them in a well sun lite area. The lights are powered by re-chargeable batteries charged during the day with small solar panels installed on each light. Fully charged, you can expect 6-8 hrs of lighting.

These types of light will make a great enhancement to any area.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/light-up-your-garden-or-patio-with-solar-lights-364412.html

Home and Patio Lighting Options

2009-02-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

It may not seem like it, but patio lights play a large role in how fun your backyard activities can be. There's nothing like a nice summer night barbecue with a bunch of friends, good food, and drinks.

Patio lights help create great ambiance and can really give your party or just your life in general some good flavor. There are many options you have when you start to consider buying some patio lights for your backyard area.

Many online stores like Amazon have a bunch of lighting options for you to sift through and see what you have available at your fingertips.

A very popular kind of light is patio string lights, which are obviously just lights strung together. The cool part about these lights is that you can hang them around your backyard on the overhang, over doors, or even on trees if that is what you are looking for.

You can get really wild and find some really colorful globe lights. This type of light is great for a big celebration, not necessarily to have up for the entire year.

Lanterns are always a good option. They look really cool hung up all around your backyard. It is very interesting. Once you start to look into your lighting options, you begin to realize how big of a role lighting plays in every activity you take part in.

Around your home you want to create areas that are highly visible because you want people to be able to see, but you also want to create a certain atmosphere.

One thing you want to think about when you are looking for patio lights is the actual schematics of your backyard. How much space do you need to cover? How many feet long does your lighting cord have to be in order to cover the area you need to.

There are always things you can do to make your backyard look a lot better. Barbecues are amazing with a good lighting scheme. There are all kinds of interior and exterior decorators who will tell you many different ways to decorate your house.

You can do these kinds of things a lot cheaper than if you hired someone professional to do it for you. You can even hit up a K Mart and find lights that might work for you. But keep an eye out for quality.

Enjoy the process and have fun finding the perfect lights for the backyard. Patio lights create great environments. Think about it.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/home-and-patio-lighting-options-453191.html

The Importance of the Indoor Lighting

2009-02-18T08:50:00.000-08:00

by.Jhoana Cooper

The indoor lighting fixtures provide the necessary light and set the proper mood and ambience of the home space. The lighting of your home can become a daunting and difficult task. Every room will need to be dealt with differently. Even the outdoor spaces will require specific Outdoor Lighting that has to be installed by a professional. The professional interior designers will opt for some durable and light-weight materials, when trying to choose the appropriate lighting fixtures for your home decor. The modern Indoor Lighting fixtures are available in various colors, shapes and designs. For instance, the common light bulb is likely to be used in every arrangement that can improve the way your home decor looks now.. Some fixtures may use higher wattage bulbs, especially when it comes to larger areas. The interior lights are also available as art lighting, clip lighting and mood lighting.

One of the most important factors that may affect your home environment is the indoor lighting; it can affect your daily life in a different degree. For instance, different forms of indoor illumination can affect the object's image and its tone. Lighting can create or even destroy the entire atmosphere of the indoor environment. People are accustomed to start thinking about indoor and Outdoor Lighting only after the interior design has already been completed and the construction itself has started. Actually, this is a big mistake.

Lighting is to be regarded as one of the most important factors to consider during the whole design phase. The owner has to posses the basic knowledge when it comes to the lighting devices; he has to be able to provide a personal opinion regarding the lighting decoration during the whole design phase. You have to become aware that lighting is an essential component of the interior design. For instance, a splendid Indoor Lighting must take in consideration the occupant’s needs, lifestyle and wishes in order to provide effective lighting to every person using the space.

For instance, the background illumination is of paramount importance because its design should archive a soft, gentle and even mesmerizing effect to the home space. So, if the homeowner wants to obtain an ideal background light, he will have to use the modern illumination design because this design uses the reflection from the wall surface and the ceiling light in order to avoid producing some luminescent spots. By using the modern devices designed by famous companies, the house owner will achieve the satisfying light effect.

But if you are highly interested in redecorating your home, you may consider the decorative illumination because this type of illumination can make the difference. This illumination will provide your personal space with a glittering effect right to the surface by giving the genuine illusion of it providing the necessary background light. This type of illumination should be used in a light manner in order not to make the entire space to appear too dazzling for the persons who are using it. Another type of Indoor Lighting is the focus illumination; the prominent light source will be carefully arranged in order to focus right on some particular objects like artwork, paintings or construction structures details.

The main goal of this kind of illumination is to achieve some artistic effects that will impress your family and your future guests. Focus illumination make use of light sources that are not too strong. Still, you have to learn that there is a huge difference between the Outdoor Lighting and illumination. Outdoor lighting can become acceptable with a proper placement and usage. But decorative and even commercial outdoor lighting are likely to work in landscaping; it can highlight certain areas and the strategically-placed outdoor lightings can complement the whole design of your establishment and even provide an aesthetic ambience. Finance is also a major consideration and you will need to need to assess your requirements. The basic function of every type of outdoor lighting fixtures is to provide the necessary safety and accessibility; the chosen designs and sizes of these lighting fixtures should complement their function and you can select fixtures such as accent lights, spotlights, floodlights or backlights.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/the-importance-of-the-indoor-lighting-514977.html

Modern Lighting Decoration – Essential Component of Interior Design

2009-02-17T08:48:00.000-08:00

by. Jimmy CK.

One of the most important factors that affect the home environment is indoor lighting, because it can affect our daily life in different degree. Different forms of illumination can affect an object's image, its tone as well as the impression that they leave behind. Lighting can create or destroy the atmosphere of indoor environment.

In many cases, people only start to think about lighting after the interior design has been completed and construction has started. This is a very big mistake. Lighting is also one of the factors to consider during the design phase. In particular, the owner needs to posses the basic knowledge of lighting, so as to be able to provide some personal opinions regarding lighting decoration during the design phase. Regrettably, many architects, designer and reconstruction personnel are lacking in this aspect of training. Over the past ten years, new technologies have been appearing, and large variety of interior lighting products had been introduced to the market. Thus, lighting has been an essential component of interior design.

A splendid lighting decoration must take into consideration of all occupant needs and their lifestyle, in order to satisfy three essential factors: people, construction and point of focus (example: artwork, paintings). But the most important of all, is to provide effective lighting to the person using the space.

- Background illumination.
Background lighting design should archive a soft, gentle and mesmerizing effect to the space. In order to obtain the ideal background light, the modern illumination design uses the reflection from the wall surface and the ceiling light, so as to avoid producing luminescent spot, thus achieving the satisfying light effect. The background illumination light may come from the wall lamp, the hanging lamp or light source from pillars.

- Decorative illumination.
Decorative lighting provides glittering effect to the surface, giving the illusion of it providing the background light. This kind of illumination should be lightly used, so as not to cause the entire space to appear too dazzling.

- Focus illumination.
Prominent light source is carefully arranged to focus on some objects like artwork, paintings or certain construction structures detail. The main goal is to achieve the artistic effect. Focus illumination make use of not too bright light sources like candle or wall hanging lamp. Track lighting and portable type lighting can also be used.

For all your indoor and outdoor lighting needs, featuring modern and contemporary lighting.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/modern-lighting-decoration-essential-component-of-interior-design-400023.html

Exterior Lighting For Home And Business Security

2009-02-16T08:44:00.000-08:00

by.Le Tuan Anh

The following article presents the very latest information on exterior lighting for home and business security. If you have a particular interest in exterior lighting for home and business security, then this informative article is required reading.

We all want to keep our homes and businesses safe and well protected. There are many ways in which this can be accomplished. One, rather simple, method for assisting in this goal is often overlooked by the multitudes but is one of the most effective measures that can be taken in order to protect not only the property from intruders but also to protect those on the property from unnecessary injury due to an inability to see what is going on in the exterior after hours.

Seriously, poor lighting can make a home or business a much more attractive target than the house next door which has adequate exterior lighting. Home intruders may on occasion not be the sharpest tools in the shed but those who are successful in this line of work are only successful because they do understand the laws of opportunity. A dark shady area that is concealed from the view of others presents a far more attractive target to would be intruders than a well-lit and revealing access point into a home.

When designing the security plan for your home and business you really need to try and think like a criminal. If you were going to break into your home or business where would you try to gain entry? Those are the areas that need to be well lit and offer little in the way of concealment opportunities for those that would attempt to make an uninvited entrance. Do not build storage sheds near windows and doors. Instead, keep them away from these areas. Storage units provide concealment and shadow in areas where this should not be desired.

Not all security is simply from invasion. You should also be concerned about the health and welfare of those who live and work in your home or business. Having the area surrounding your home and business will not only reveal intruders but also obstacles, holes, and etc. that could pose risks of injury in addition to potential intruders. You should also keep in mind that not all intruders have only possessions in mind when they make their grand entrance. Making your home or business uninviting as a 'pit stop' for these criminal elements also makes it safer for your family, friends, coworkers, and employees.

The more authentic information about exterior lighting for home and business security you know, the more likely people are to consider you a exterior lighting for home and business security expert. Read on for even more exterior lighting for home and business security facts that you can share.

You do not need to light up your home or business like a military installation in order to achieve the very security you seek. Motion sensor lights that only light up the area in which motion is detected can prove basic enough protection in many cases without inviting the neighbors to complain about the never-ending daylight you manage to create.

Rope lights provide low level and decorative lights but they also invite passersby to take a look at your property. This in itself makes your property unattractive to intruders if there is any kind of regular traffic in your neighborhood or an active number of neighbors that walk dogs, star gaze, or engage in any other nocturnal activities.

If rope lights aren't appealing, many homes make judicious use of solar powered decorative lights, as part of their landscaping in addition to a hopeful deterrent to would be intruders. Combining two or more of the forms of exterior lighting discussed above could net even greater results. Prevention is always the best course of action when it comes to things such as home or business security as well as the protection of those who live and work in your home or business from potential harm due to inadequate exterior lighting.

These are all things that should be considered when creating a security plan for your home or business. Lighting is important for many reasons. Despite the fact that many people have top of the line security equipment and can't find their way across their lawns after lights are out far too few people bother to take the need for adequate exterior lighting seriously. Hopefully those who read this will have a new attitude when it comes to lighting up the night skies and keeping your home and business safe.

There's no doubt that the topic of exterior lighting for home and business security can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions about exterior lighting for home and business security, you may find what you're looking for in the next article.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/exterior-lighting-for-home-and-business-security-255740.html

Exterior Light Fixtures

2009-02-15T08:42:00.000-08:00

by.Peter Gitundu

Exterior light fixtures allow people from all over the world to transform their gardens and home facades in the most beautiful way. They are able to achieve not only beautiful but intriguing designs. In order for you achieve the best designs, you must combine the colors to achieve a happy and unique arrangement.

You can use low voltage exterior light fixtures because they are widely available and have been used for a long time. The combination or alteration of exterior light fixtures will ensure that the landscaping is a success. You need to find dynamic ways for the decor to be totally unique. It will be pretty helpful for you to go for the low voltage systems. They will provide the best illumination.

Some of the best displays will ensure that people are not able to know where light is coming from. You therefore need to be very careful as you plan for the intricate attraction. You should consider the cost of having the fixtures in your home and the kind of installation to undertake. When you decide to go it alone, you might need to save quite a bit.

The light fixtures for the interior that come with 12 volts, will be much easier to install. Therefore, you will not risk exceeding the National Electrical Code. You will decorate paths, gazebos, doorsteps and others with this soft light puddles. You can also do this for mini lakes and ponds. You can try those special fixtures that will do wonders underwater so that you can enjoy the beauty of water sparkling in the dark.

For special effects, you can use light beams which will create splendor, leaving your outdoors looking extremely gorgeous. The purpose of this fixtures is to create a blend of color encompassing all artistic impressions. Creating and playing with lights can prove an experience like non other. When all this is brought around the home, there is no greater decor.

Features like ponds and bushes can become a great way of displaying wonderful artistic impressions. These elements are very vital while undertaking this kind of lighting. If you have not tried this, it is time you did so.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/tools-and-equipment-articles/exterior-light-fixtures-534530.html

Exterior Lighting Protects House - Light Up Your Home For D

2009-02-14T08:40:00.000-08:00

Home security and that of the business premises is foremost in every responsible owner's mind, be it a family guy or a single person; but the simplest solution to the effective way to protect both places is one not many instantly think of – which is, exterior lighting.

Yes, exterior lighting is the simplest and most effective method of building a security shield around the premises, be they residential or commercial as it gives the impression of someone being present on them.

Exterior lighting also works to ward off potential intruders from breaking-in to the property that is well-lit in the fear of being sighted as it saves those on the premises from inadvertent work hazards of tripping/knocking over something/getting hurt by a protruding object etc. if working late hours.

Any premises that does not have adequate exterior lighting is more likely to be targeted by burglars and intruders who are looking for an opportunity mostly to break-in to homes and offices that give out the wrong signals: of being less cautious or knowledgeable about deterrents, such as good lighting and alarms. Since most intruders work on the principles (or lack of them, actually speaking) of opportunity arising and therefore moving in for the kill, a dark space spells more potential for them as it is usually concealed well from others present in the vicinity that may be well-lit up. Dark places typically also have the access points hidden well to provide the intruder with a good reason to think he can enter and break-in and even get-away fast enough if he is quick on his feet since it lacks the deterrent spell of a lighted home or office.

Thus, to nab a criminal, they say, you must think like one: so when designing your home, ensure that all access points have strong doors, bolts and windows that are lockable besides getting adequate lighting after evening sets in. Avoid building storage sheds near doors or windows as these prevent you from seeing if someone is hiding outside or conceal movement.

Exterior lighting is not always recommended for improving security conditions in a home or office, but also for your better health and for livening up the place.

Good lighting is essential to the essence of a home and for keeping risks at a minimum, especially with children or old folks in the home or even when entertaining friends; this applies to an office environment as well. So, you can find out more about motion sensor lights that work to light up only that areas where any movement is detected, which is a good way to get off your neighbors' nerves should you have resorted to the alternative of keeping all lights all through the night –annoying and expensive!

If you have access to solar powered decorative lights, you can be sure of enhancing the look of your landscaping besides also scaring off possible intruders, even though the earlier mentioned variety of lights is the better kinds for alerting the homeowner about a stranger's presence – but if only inside the house.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/home-security-articles/exterior-lighting-protects-house-light-up-your-home-for-d-753880.html

Benefits and Uses of LED Lighting

2009-02-13T03:12:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for state-of-the-art LED lighting? This article will educate you about some of the most noticeable benefits of these small yet powerful lights in terms of cost effectiveness and environmental uses. LED is short for Light Emitting Diode. LED lights are made up of small semiconductor diodes that emit blue, green and red light when an electric current is passed through them. Using these three basic colors, all other colors can be produced by combining them in different proportions. Basically these types of lights are used as indicators and for other special purposes like Christmas lighting and for use in flashlights and car lights.

Because LED lights are very efficient in terms of saving energy and cost, they are popular all over the world. All kinds of LED lights are provided by renowned manufactures across the globe. These lights include high-power LEDs, low-power LEDs, sign displays, remote control devices, household bulbs, car kits, rope lights and strips. White-colored LED lamps and energy-saver lights are very common and good at their job. They can operate continuously for hours and hours without becoming dim or weak. High-power and strong LED lights are expected to last for many years.

LED industry leaders have estimated that good quality LED lighting can last for 50,000 to 100,000 hours. Usually these kinds of lights require 9 to 14V DC power which is very low as compared to power required by traditional lighting. Furthermore, they are easy to install and carry around in case you need to move to a new place. They can be stored in a compact storage place and come very handy on special occasions like birthday parties, weddings and Christmas celebrations. Another advantage of these small lights is that they are made water proof and can be installed in any area of your choice.

LED lighting has been found to be superior to incandescent light bulbs and fluorescent tubes in terms of longer and more useful life. These lights also have a faster response time as compared to other types of lights and become fully bright in a matter of microseconds. They can also be used in electronic and electrical experiments where they are required to test passage of electric current through a circuit. They do not contain mercury and are therefore very safe. In fact they can be used to test various circuits where high voltage is expected to be used in order to be safe and avoid electric shock.

Although LEDs are more expensive than other type of lighting, they are very cost effective in the long run. First of all, they save energy. And secondly, they operate for a much longer duration than ordinary fluorescent lights or tubes. Their design flexibility, powerful nature, small size and availability in almost all kinds of colors make them an attractive choice for household use. They are also safe to be used around children as they do not produce much heat. Visible LEDs do not produce any ultraviolet radiation and are therefore useful for a wide range of purposes.

So, you see LED lighting has many advantages over other types of lighting. It is not only cost-effective but also very safe and useful. Different kinds of LED bulbs are now utilized for household use to produce super bright and continuous light. They are also used for entertainment and architectural lighting as part of sophisticated and state-of-the-art interior design. Many people use LED bulbs as portable lights for different purposes. They provide environmental protection and come in many colors including blue, white, red, yellow and green. Red and yellow LED lights are often used in advertisements and sign displays. LED rope lights and strips are used all over the world for wedding decorations and concerts.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/electronics-articles/benefits-and-uses-of-led-lighting-513633.html

Outdoor Lighting for Any Size Yard

2009-02-13T02:17:00.000-08:00

Summer is here and that means one thing – (no, not rolling blackouts) it’s time to go outside and enjoy your yard or patio. This is easy during the day, when the sun is shining and natural light is plentiful. If your outdoor areas are not properly lit, however, the setting sun can be like a countdown to pack up and head back indoors. For many regions around the country, the best time to be outside is at night, when the harsh sun has gone down and cooler temperatures prevail. The best way to enjoy warm summer nights is by having a yard that employs ample outdoor lighting.

There are lighting options available for any sized yard, whether you have a large lot or a cozier petite patio. Lighting larger outdoor areas usually means the use of a few different light fixtures and mixing them throughout your yard. Conventional wall-mounted or hanging lights work great under covered patio areas while weatherproof post-mounted lanterns and lights are ideal for corners of decks and anywhere else they can be mounted. If you have a solid perimeter wall, mounting wall sconces every eight or ten feet is a great option that adds light and also decoration during the day. For accent lighting, solar powered path lights are ideal for, you guessed it, paths, and also in planters and gardens. These solar lights use absolutely zero electricity and come in a variety of styles and finishes to suit just about any decorating taste.

Smaller yards and patios can employ many of the same lighting fixtures as larger lots, just on a slightly smaller scale. It’s important to keep smaller spaces uncluttered and to not overdo it when it comes to outdoor lighting. Sometimes a single wall fixture is all you need to provide enough light. Just as with larger yards, solar powered lights make great accent pieces and are generally very inconspicuous for small yards and patios. Be aware, however, that these fixtures don’t provide enough light to be used as primary lighting sources. They generally only emit a soft glow and therefore should only be used as accent lighting.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/outdoor-lighting-for-any-size-yard-167372.html

Things to Consider in Outdoor Patio Lighting

2009-02-12T02:14:00.000-08:00

If you have a patio, then you would have definitely thought of getting outdoor patio lighting. You should know though that this kind of lighting is not something that you can just randomly pick from a store and install. There are a couple of things that you need to have in mind when shopping for outdoor patio lighting.

Why You Need Patio Lighting

Having outdoor patio lighting is not just about trying to make your home patio look as classy as a hotel or resort patio. Installing patio lighting is all about creating the right atmosphere and promoting the safety of your property. Outdoor patio lighting should therefore be correctly chosen and carefully installed to both get your desired ambience effect that you want and to illuminate dark areas where people could meet accidents.

Ideas for Patio Lighting

There are a great many options for patio lighting to match your taste and preference. It's just a matter of knowing what choices you have. Here are some good ideas for outdoor patio lighting.

- One of the newest and popular options these days is to get embedded lighting. You can choose to embed outdoor patio lighting in pots, furniture and other patio fixtures. Two other popular areas to embed lights in are the patio steps and floor. These embedded lights can help prevent injuries from tripping or falling. The good thing about these kinds of lights is that they are weather resistant and can be stepped on without getting damaged.

- Lanterns are great lights to put up especially if you have a themed home and patio. These lanterns can come in modern designs, paper type designs or in custom shapes and styles. You can even have luminary lanterns with figures of objects, animals and scenes. These lanterns can project the images on your patio when you turn them on.

- Festive or Christmas lights are also another option for outdoor patio lighting. You can string these lights on your patio railing or at the bottom of your patio roof during parties or special occasions. Festive lights can simply enhance the feeling of merry making.

- Center table outdoor patio lighting is also one good option if you want to save space on your patio. You can easily connect your electric table light to an outlet from the stem or body of your patio table.

- Aside from table patio lighting, you can also have outdoor patio lighting installed from under your table patio umbrella. This is a highly functional and focused kind of lighting that you would find useful for night dining and late night table conversations.

- Lamp post type of outdoor patio lighting has never run out of style. There are numerous designs ranging from European, Oriental to modern. Lamp posts are perfect if you want to complement a specific theme or break the monotony of a patio lay-out. Stand alone lamps though do take up some space and would therefore look best in wide patios.

- Torches are another great idea for patio lighting. You can choose from torches made of bamboo or metal with a wide range of designs. You can go medieval or tropical depending on your preferred style.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/things-to-consider-in-outdoor-patio-lighting-349155.html

New Concept of Green & Energy-saving Lighting - LED Light

2009-02-12T02:08:00.000-08:00

LEDs are solid-state semiconductor devices that convert electrical energy directly into light.
Thermal sources of light such as flames and incandescent filaments emit light when heated, either by chemical reaction (flames) or electrical heating (filament lamps). LED "cold" generation of light leads to high efficacy because most of the energy radiates within the visible spectrum.
Other common high efficiency light sources, such as fluorescent lamps and electro luminescent devices, also produce light without much thermal radiation outside the visible spectrum.
Because LEDs are solid-state devices, they can be extremely small and durable; they also provide longer lamp life than other sources.

Light is generated inside the chip, a solid crystal material, when current flows across the junctions of different material compositions.

An LED consists of two elements of processed material called P-type semiconductors and N-type semiconductors. These two elements are placed in direct contact, forming a region called the P-N junction. The composition of the different materials determines the wavelength and therefore the colour of light generated.

LED resembles most other diode types, but there are important differences. The LED has a transparent package, allowing visible or IR energy to pass through. Also, the LED has a large PN-junction area whose shape is tailored to the application. The device shown in Figure 1 is an AlGaInP LED because the semiconductor layers are aluminum (Al), gallium (Ga), indium (In), and phosphate (P).

Main LED materials
The main semiconductor materials used to manufacture LEDs are:
*Indium gallium nitride (InGaN): blue, green and ultraviolet high-brightness LEDs
*Aluminum gallium indium phosphide (AlGaInP): yellow, orange and red high-brightness LEDs
*Aluminum gallium arsenide (AlGaAs): red and infrared LEDs
*Gallium phosphide (GaP): yellow and green LEDs

Why LEDs?

LEDs have a range of benefits which is fast making them the best solution for real energy efficient lighting. Over the course of the next few years some aspects are expected to change significantly.

Lifetime
As solid-state light sources, LEDs have a very long lifetime and are generally very robust due to no mechanical or moving parts.
Incandescent bulbs have an expected lifetime of 1k to 5k hours, while good quality LEDs are often quoted of having a lifetime of 50k hours, more than 5 years continuous use. However it is important to to understand that the performance of LEDs degrades over time, and this degradation is strongly affected by factors such as operating current and temperature.

Low maintenance
The long lifetime of LEDs reduces the need to replace failed lamps, and this can lead to significant financial and environmental savings, particularly in maintenance, labour and recycling. This makes LED fixtures useful for installations in inaccessible locations, but if tasks like cleaning the light fixture are required, then the light sources could be replaced at the same time, negating the "low maintenance" advantage.

Efficiency
As a semiconductor device, LEDs are highly efficient. Current device technology is allowing the performance of these to be pushed to limits that exceed that of standard lighting.
The directional nature of light produced by LEDs allows the design of luminaires with higher overall efficiency.

Low power consumption
The low power consumption of LEDs leads to large energy savings that can often drive the installation of LED-based systems. Initial purchase costs start off higher, but can be proven to return the investment cost in a short period of time.

Brightness
Light outputs are constantly being increased and there are several products that have higher lumen output than traditional lighting.

Heat
LEDs do not produce heat in the form of infrared radiation (IR) unlike incandescent bulbs which makes them hot to the touch.
This lack of heat production allows LED fixtures to be used in locations where heating from conventional sources would cause a particular problem e.g. illuminating food, textiles, artifacts, etc.
However, LEDs do produce heat at the semiconductor junction within the device and good thermal management must be employed on high power devices to maintain operation life

Cost
In many applications, LEDs are expensive compared with other light sources, when measured by metrics such as “£-per-lumen”.
LED manufacturers continue to work towards reducing their production costs while at the same time increasing the light output of their devices.
However, the high initial cost of LED-based systems is offset by lower energy consumption, lower maintenance costs and other factors.
The initial cost may seem high, but take into account the electricity usage that is saved, they pay for themselves.

Electricity Cost savings from switching to LED Direct replacement bulbs
10W LED Bulbs Vs 75W halogen bulb running cost comparison

Small form-factors

LEDs are very small - typical high-brightness LED chips measure 0.3 mm by 0.3 mm, while high-power devices can be 1 mm x 1 mm or larger. There are many examples where the availability of small, high-brightness devices have enabled significant market advancement. The obvious example is in mobile phone handsets, where blue, green and white LEDs are now used in most models to back light keypads and liquid-crystal display (LCD) screens.

Instantaneous switch-on
LEDs switch on rapidly, even when cold, and this is a particular advantage for certain applications such as vehicle brake lights.

Colour
LEDs are available in a broad range of brilliant, saturated colours (although performance varies across the spectrum), and white devices are also available. Modules containing different colored LEDs (typically red, green and blue, or RGB) can be tuned to a huge range of colours, and easily dimmed. RGB modules provide a much wider gamut of colours than white LEDs or other traditional white light sources, which is a particular advantage in applications such as backlighting liquid-crystal displays (LCD's).

RGB LEDs and colour mixing
LED characteristics change with time, temperature and current, and from device to device. For RGB LEDs, the performance of different colored devices changes at different rates. This can result in variation of lamp colour and intensity, and poor reproducibility.

LED Vs Halogen

LED Lighting Types

Now the LED bulbs are widely applied in household, office, street, shop, park etc for decoration and lightings LED lighting family mainly includes:
1. LED ball lamp
2. LED spot lamp
3. LED ground lamp
4. LED tube light
5. LED rope lamp
6. LED pool lamp
7. LED curtain lamp
8. LED Christmas (festival) lamp
9. LED ceiling lamp
10. LED road light
11. LED Solar light
Etc.

In a word, LED lightings will be the future of lighting, and it will definitely replace the halogen lights in soon future.

source:

Luxury Lighting Products

2009-02-11T02:07:00.000-08:00

Luxury lighting is a must for any serious custom homeowner who makes a major investment in a residence that deserves the very best possible presentation. Not only do general light sources have to feature the very best commercial grade fixtures and carefully designed layered lighting effects, but keynote decorations such as fine art, custom cabinetry, ornate furniture, and elegant displays also require a luxury light source that appropriately highlights their aesthetic and function within the home. When it comes to lighting fine art, custom furnishings, and specialty displays, Phantom Contour Projectors and Phantom Linear Strip lights produce some of the most unique and aesthetically pleasing luxury lighting effects from apparently sourceless points of origin that accounts for our motto: "See the Light, Not the Fixture!"

Phantom Contour Projectors

The Contour Projector is the most user friendly and low-profile luxury lighting tool available to the private art collector. Generally, the Contour Projector is used for the lighting of expensive, original art whose sensitivity requires a light source that is completely free from the deleterious effects of infrared heat and ultraviolet light. While there are many luxury lighting fixtures available that feature advanced filtration and special lenses to strip the light of harmful radiation, only the Contour Projector combines effective filtration, impeccable special effects, (the "lighted from within" look) and ease of user adjustment in one simple, compact, and visually unobtrusive device.

Custom homeowners favor our projectors because they are much smaller in comparison to other luxury lighting art projectors. This makes them much easier to mount and configure in a home environment. Some clients with very large collections (and homes) have ordered as many as 12 Contours from our factory here in Houston, TX, although most clients typically order between 2-5 projectors. Six different type models of Contour Projectors are available through our network of Phantom Lighting Agents; with one model even being designed especially for retrofitting to older ceilings where cutting into the wood is not an option. This type of fine art luxury lighting for is very precise and works especially well when illuminating private, static art collections that remain more or less the same over long periods of time.

Galleries, on the other hand, have historically used track lights because they can be easily repositioned any time a new display is configured, or whenever there is a grand opening of a new artist. Surface mounted Contour Projectors have begun to show up more and more in museums and galleries, however, as new mounting equipment now allows the Contour Projector to be similarly mounted on a track and moved accordingly whenever a new piece is added to the collection, or when an entirely new theme is introduced to the gallery.

Phantom Linear Lighting Strips

Phantom Linear Lighting strips can be used for any number of luxury lighting applications that require an unseen fixture and a superior level of luminance. Because our LED strip lights are much smaller than many competing light sources, they can occupy places normally off limits to higher intensity-and much bulkier-incandescent, xenon, and fluorescent fixtures. While xenon lighting strips have traditionally been the preferred source of luxury lighting effects in coves, cabinets, and elegant display cases, all of this has changed with Phantom's new 2800K and 2950K LED festoon lamps.

Long ago, LED technology established itself as a more durable and energy efficient source of luminance. Now, it has taken another giant leap forward into the realm of luxury lighting with the 2800K festoon lamps. These lamps (operating at only 1.7 watts) can produce a quality of light equivalent to the finest xenon lamps (operating at 5 watts) at only a fraction of the cost. Phantom manufacturing custom builds six separate lines of luxury strip lighting products capable of supporting these amazing new festoon lamps in a variety of variety of kitchen cabinet lighting, valance lighting, cove lighting, display lighting, and antique furniture lighting applications.

The new 2950K festoon LED provides a cooler temperature cabinet lighting source ideal for today's contemporary kitchen designs. Both as an under cabinet light and an in-cabinet light, Phantoms AC (Adjustable Concealed) strips can be fitted with LED festoons to provide a dual-function luxury light source that is at once both practical and decorative. They offer the distinct advantage of completely wireless strip lights that replace visible wiring with brass shelf supports and buss bars that attach to the outside of the cabinet. This makes them all but invisible to the naked eye, and true luxury kitchen cabinet lights in every sense of the word when it comes to lighting today's ornate, multi-functional, and eclectic custom kitchens.

As a cove light, the Phantom CM series is unsurpassed in both customization and hidden, sourceless light. Capable of bending to full 360-degrees to fit anything from a vaulted dome interior to a serpentine cove above a restaurant foyer, the CM series indirect cove strip lighting model can be fitted with either warm or cool colour temperature LED festoons to completely mimic the luxury lighting effects of xenon. Not only are LED cove lights more cost effective from an operations standpoint, but their 50,000-hour bulb light makes them a much better option than traditional light sources that have to be replaced at costly labor rates due to their high-and often hard to reach-position near the ceiling.

Any type of fine art specialty low voltage display cabinet lighting takes on a more rich and luxurious tone when sourced from apparently invisible Phantom linear strips. With custom vertical and horizontal mount series available, any bookshelf, antique case, or non-mirrored curio cabinet can be illuminated from within from a continuous, heatless lighting source. Warmer color temperatures are more common in these settings due to the complex blend of colors and patterns that characterize the interior design and architecture of today's custom home, but any type of festoon lamp can be fitted to these strips depending on the nature and the location of the display.

source:http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/luxury-lighting-products-606048.html

Bathroom Lighting Sconces

2009-02-11T02:04:00.000-08:00

Sconces are beautiful illumination fixtures that will take bathroom lighting to a whole new level of décor. Homeowners love to decorate their abodes with cherished objects and eye-catching colors. The bathroom is a fun place to test out your creative mind, because you can decorate this space to match your personality. No matter how you decorate your bathroom area, you will need to have the proper type of lighting in place to accommodate your design theme. Wall sconces are the perfect illumination fixtures for your vanity area. If you are looking for a lighting fixture that will give your bathroom a touch of charm and soft gentle light, then a wall sconce will fit perfectly into your interior design.

There is a wide selection of bathroom products, including sconces. There are some unique fixtures designed for every room within your living headquarters. RLLD also specializes in landscape lighting and commercial illumination for your convenience. Homeowners can go to the online venue and select the right product for their illumination project without spending copious amounts of time shopping around with other retailers. The professional staff of trained experts, who know the art and science of light are the individuals can assist you in the selection process, as well as answering any questions you might have about installation and lighting technique.

The bathroom is one space within the home that requires ample task illumination. Many routine tasks are performed within this area on a daily basis. Men use this space to shave and comb their hair, while women tend to use this area to put makeup on or engage in other morning tasks. The best way to give your bathroom sufficient lighting is to use a combination of illumination fixtures. Besides the fixtures designed for your bathroom, there also are ceiling lights, wall sconces, and recessed lighting fixtures to accommodate your needs along with many other stylish illumination fixtures that will give this space a decorative touch. Using different light fixtures in combination with one another will reduce shadows and give homeowners an ample light source for completing morning rituals.

What about decoration you ask? Although bathroom lighting is primarily used for task illumination, homeowners can purchase stylish fixtures that will accommodate their design theme. Wall sconces are a great example here. These light fixtures come in a variety of styles and finishes, so choice should never be a problem. RLLD has gorgeous wall sconces for your bathroom, each with its own personality. Many of our sconces come in brass, nickel, and silver finishes, but these are just a few of the choices waiting for you.

Some wall sconces will give your bathroom an archaic, Old World feeling. While other Apothecary style lamps that are perfect for accenting purposes. Other wall sconces have beautiful glass lampshades, such as those found in the Thomas Kincaid collection produced by Westinghouse Lighting Corp. Sconces add charm and personality to your space by dispelling a warm glow of soft illumination. Aziano Lighting also has gorgeous sconces that will give your powder room an upscale feeling of Victorian elegance.

Whether you need contemporary style fixtures for your modern home or traditional illumination products for your residence, there are many selections of sconces designed for this purpose. Give your home a decorative touch of soft light with the unique product line offered.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/bathroom-lighting-sconces-322435.html

Solar Lighting

2009-02-10T11:45:00.000-08:00

While some alternative energy solutions for the home require a major investment for their initial installation, there are others which are not so complicated.

Solar lights are relatively simple to acquire and install, and are powered by clean energy. Since they usually require no wiring, they are very simple to set up.

Solar garden lights (or solar landscape lights) are one example of this. Solar garden lights have solar panels embedded into them at the top, facing the sun. Of course one drawback of these is that they might not stay lit forever. The amount of sun they receive will influence how long they last. The specifications of these lights can give you some idea of how long they will stay lit in the dark. But 8-12 hours is not an unusual estimate for a reasonably priced light, which should be plenty of time to get through the night in most circumstances.

Furthermore, these lights usually have sensors so that they turn on automatically at dusk and turn off when the sun starts shining again. This means that you don't have to run your lights the whole night through, if you don't need to. Motion sensors are also used in some solar lights, such as those that would be placed along pathways or near the front door, so that the lights turn on when an person or animal is present. This is good for security, and its also good for just seeing where you are going when you walk in a garden or path, or approach a home in the dark.

Solar lighting can also be used in Christmas lights. One might not think that December is the best time of year to utilize solar energy, but I suppose Christmas lights don't require too much voltage. Since solar powered Christmas lights are not hard to find.

Solar spotlights and floodlights are used in landscaping, among other things. These are used to set out and highlight the best features of a garden or landscape, and again, no wiring required means they are much easier to install than electrical lights. Not to mention cleaner and cheaper.

Again, with solar powered lights, one disadvantage can be the fact that they only stay on for as long as their stored solar electricity permits. In most cases, however, they should last throughout the night if they are receiving sufficient solar energy during the day. You could run into trouble if they are placed in a shady area or if you live in a cloudy climate. They will probably still work, but not as well. Snow can also block sunlight when it covers any photovoltaic surface. But solar lights are often designed in such a way as to let snow slide off of them more easily.

There are plenty of other uses for solar lighting. And they aren't all for the home owner.

Street lights can be run with solar power. It will be interesting to see how that concept develops, as the world turns its attention more and more toward clean alternative energy solutions. Arguably, it would be dangerous if street lights went out early on days when their solar energy wasn't sufficient.

But a simple solution would be to use a hybrid system, with a backup battery, a backup power generator, or the like. That way, if the energy from the sun weren't sufficient one day, the lights would continue to shine nevertheless.

source:http://www.articlesbase.com/education-articles/solar-lighting-715728.html

2009-02-10T00:37:00.000-08:00

Solar lights have been around for a long time and have greatly improved though the last few years. They come in various sizes, colors, materials and lighting types. Picking the right ones requires a little advanced planning. They can easily be installed anywhere and require no wiring. They only require direct sunlight and they will give you many hours of lighting pleasure.

Some ways to use Solar lightsare:

1. Solar pathway lights. You may want to light up a pathway to your outdoor hot tub, flower garden, and gazebo or even use they as driveway markers.

2. Solar landscape lights. You may want to enhance facets of your landscape. You can do this with sets of landscape lights that can be place anywhere to accentuate whatever you want to bring out.

3. Solar spotlights. You may want to light up a special tree, shrub or flower garden or just light up your house numbers. Many types of solar lights are available to do just that.

4. Solar stepping-stones. You can add a solar stepping-stone as a part of your pathway. These solar stepping-stones come in 12-14 inch square or round shapes have a small light that lights up at night. What a marvelous way to accentuate your pathways.

5. Solar rock lights. Solar rocks are lights in the shape of rocks and are usually spotlights. Their natural looking and add a subtle and practical touch to your yard. They can be intermingled within your rock garden to light up your ponds or pathways or whatever you’d like to light up.

6. Solar security lights. These come in a variety of styles ranging from all night-lights to motion detector lights. These are especially ideal for areas where running wires to them would be impractical. There are models that do can be hard-wired but only use electricity when not enough power has been stored in the rechargeable battery.

7. Solar frog lights. There are solar lights in the shapes of frogs and can be either a spot light or ones that glow in the dark. Image what your guest will say when they see something like this!

8. Solar dog lights. Just like solar frog lights, there are lights that come with dog figures holding a solar lantern. These types of lights can be put almost anywhere. What a great conversation piece these would be. A true addition for the dog aficionado

9. Solar Gnome lights. Gnome figures have become increasingly popular. These come in spotlights and with the gnome holding a lantern. Line your garden path with these whimsical solar gnomes lights.

10. Specialty solar lights. There are many of types of solar lighting solar lights in the form of owls, squirrels, angels, fairies, turtles and many other shapes.

As you can see, there are solar lights for practically any application. All you need is a sunny area to place them in. They do run on rechargeable batteries and they need to recharge during the light of day. Solar lights are relatively in expensive to they afford you the opportunity to experiment.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/solar-lights-10-things-to-consider-when-selecting-solar-lighting-348540.html

10 Uses for Outdoor Solar Lights

2009-02-09T00:33:00.000-08:00

Solar Lighting can be used in many ways

Here are just a few examples of practical applications for outdoor solar lighting:

Solar Accent Lights
For specialist use in the yard or garden these are designed for accent lighting along the edges of driveways, walkways, paths and entrances to homes, garages and other buildings. They can also be used to enhance any other features which you want to illuminate within your garden.

Solar Lanterns
Typically these solar light fixtures include many different and unique designs of solar lights to enhance any part of your garden and yard. You will find designs that vary from the very traditional to the ultra-modern and the styles in between so that you will be able to create or compliment any style you want.

Solar Motion Sensor Lights
Perfect for lighting those areas that you only want illuminated when you or an intruder approaches. They enhance the safety and security of your home for you and all of your family. Because solar lights are easy to install they can be located in those places where traditional lights and the wiring required are a problem.

Solar Spot Lights
Use solar spots to light up any individual objects outside you home such as trees, bushes, a flower bed, statues or even a pond or stream. They can be mounted low or high to give different effects. They are easy to install as they require no external wiring and can be simply attached to a stake, normally supplied with them, which can be pushed in to the dirt wherever you like.

Solar Flood Lights
If you want to light a much larger area then solar flood lights will help you to do this. Again they can be mounted low for a very dramatic effect or even used to light up a large area of a wall or side of a building to give a silhouette effect to any trees or bushes etc which are located in front of them.

Solar Sign Lights
No need to get electricity down to the end of your driveway anymore if you want to illuminate the number of your house at night. Just use a solar powered sign light to get a great effect and allow everyone who is visiting you to find you really easily.

Solar Pond and Pool Lights
Today you can now get small solar powered lights in a wide rage of different colors that will float permanently in your pool or pond to giving a dramatic and potentially moving light show all night long. If you haven't seen these then you really should as the effect they give is very impressive.

Solar Flag Light
Just like the solar sign lights there are now specialist lights for lighting the flag on your flag pole if you have one or the whole flag and pole together.

Solar Rope Lights
These are great for creating great lighting effects anywhere in your yard and garden but especially on patios and decks, They can be run along anything such as under a deck railing or around things such as tree trunks and deck posts or hung on buildings or in trees.

Solar Christmas Lights
Yes, you now even get solar Christmas lights for your tree or other features outside and around your home. But you don't have to just use them at Christmas as they can be hung in any tree or bush or other suitable object at any time of the year, even all year if you want. Great for parties and other special occasions

Have Fun with Solar Lights
Use your imagination to get any lighting effect you desire. Outdoor solar lights will help you do it cheaply and easily while you have lots of fun.

source:http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/10-uses-for-outdoor-solar-lights-416124.html

Lighting Floor Plans

2009-02-09T00:23:00.000-08:00

Lighting floor plans take many shapes and come in all sizes.

Some are more formal and organized, while others are more freeform and pose unique lighting challenges. Variations in ceiling height, daylight and construction materials form a three-dimensional framework around the floor plan. Custom home lighting fixtures must be chosen based on their ability to harmoniously compliment interior surfaces and architectural elements. Otherwise, fixtures will appear too obtrusive and diminish the room's aesthetic. The best way to design a superior lighting floor plan is to install low-profile functional lights and decorative accent lights at unique angles of incidence. Creating a multi-layered interior lighting design in this fashion will ensure decorative appeal and satisfactory lighting levels at once.

One of the most common questions we get about lighting floor plans deals with the actual number of lighting fixtures that a particular room will need.

The answer to this question is highly subjective, and requires a case-by-case analysis of each interior element to determine. Room sizes dictate the number of lighting fixtures and the wattages that must be used to provide general lighting. Factors such as ceiling height, the presence of natural light coming in through windows, and floor space itself play major roles in determining wattage and lumens levels. Hallways, for example, with tall ceiling eliminate the opportunity to plan recessed lighting because the angles are too steep creating objectionable shadows on objects of art. To overcome the effects of tall ceilings, homeowners are sometimes inclined to use the brightest lights to make sure that everything can be clearly seen. This type of lighting floor plan can cause more problems than it solves, however. Too much light creates either indirect glare or glare reflecting off glass and metal surfaces. It also creates a "flattened" look where everything looks two-dimensional. This works against interior decorating and is best avoided through a more strategic and selective blending of general and accent lighting. Floor plans can be illuminated in this fashion with multiple layers of house lighting that magnify important design elements reflective of personal taste and lifestyle.

Decorative lighting and use of chandeliers depends on the interior designer's look and feel of the home.

Most floor plans are traditional or contemporary, and decorative lighting fixtures come in both types of styles to provide a visual compliment to their surroundings. Chandelier lifts, a real luxury are becoming more prevalent in today's modern new home wiring plans due to taller ceiling heights and more elaborate fixture designs. They are useful during the installation of the fixture, for lamp changing and for cleaning purposes. If you are planning to have a chandelier as part of your lighting floor plan, it really should be done by a professional who can install it with a lift. This will allow you to do simple indoor lighting maintenance on your own and avoid the expense of service calls in the future.

Accent lighting is determined by the number of targets to illuminate such as art, sculpture or furnishings.

Recessed low voltage accent ccent lights add great value to any project, and magnify the elements of both contemporary and traditional-style interior décor superbly. Accent lights create focal points and are used to illuminate fine art, antique furniture, dining tables and plants. Accent lighting fixtures typically have small apertures which tend to hide the light source and minimize visual glare. They can also be used as an effective general lighting source in some contemporary lighting floor plans when planning your house lighting.

Although the lighting concepts are repetitive, every home takes on a new design depending on the floor plan.

It pays off in the long run to have your lighting floor plan developed by a professional lighting designer with extensive knowledge of interior decorating and architectural theory. Professionals like the consultants at Illuminations Lighting and Design know how to isolate key features that need enhancement through lighting, and they know where best to install lighting fixtures for functional and aesthetic effect.

Our areas of lighting expertise include residential, commercial, landscape, liturgical, building facades, and hospitality. We are fully equipped to produce CAD drawings, full specifications, custom lighting details, photometrics, energy code documentation, hand renderings, lighting control system layout and programming, and construction administration.

source:http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/lighting-floor-plans-650862.html

Professional Landscape Lighting

2009-02-07T23:24:00.000-08:00

Many homeowners often think that since any number of nationwide, branded retailers offer enormous selections of exterior lighting fixtures for houses, yard decorations, and landscaping fixtures that they can save on service costs by selectively purchasing attractive fixtures and positioning them in key places that require functional lighting or decorative accent light. This never pays off in the long run, however, because retail-grade outdoor light fixtures are not built to withstand the elements, and they are also more difficult to network into Lutron Grafik Eye lighting controls, home automation networks, and sophisticated lighting arrays.

A professional organization like Illuminations Lighting and Design carefully studies your home and surrounding property and spends extensive time in consultation with you to learn the many preferences and particulars of your individual lifestyle. Outdoor lights are selected to accent and magnify your home environment on an intensely personal level, and careful attention is paid to a number of very important factors that only a trained outdoor lighting contractor can properly assess to develop a system of outdoor lights and lighting controls.

Theme and Style
The theme and style of residential landscape lighting reflects your personality, the physical architecture of your house, the style of the homes in your neighborhood, and even the geography in which you are located.

Homes in River Oaks often look like stately Old World mansions and feature classical fountains and statuary in their yards that require art lighting. Houses along Memorial often reflect early American or colonial architecture, whereas many fine homes in Bellaire feature a blend of traditional architecture and eclectic customization.

These architectural styles have to be considered when choosing outdoor garden light fixtures in order to build a system with complimentary aesthetic. Landscape lighting professionals work to enhance the architecture and location of a home, never diminish it, with the physical style and size of the outdoor light fixtures we install.

Architecture and Whole House Lighting
Many outdoor architectural lights are specifically designed to easily mount to the exterior of the house itself. Knowing where to put them, however, represents the greatest challenge to the do it yourselfer. If the lighting angles are not correctly calculated, house lights will cause light pollution and glare that overwhelm the architecture and spill into neighboring yards and windows. Landscape lighting professionals are trained in special techniques that enable them to install outdoor lights from concealed positions that place just enough light on the house without casting shadows or shining light into the house next door.

These skills are especially valuable in Houston suburbs such as Pearland, The Woodlands, and Sugar Land where families often have early bed times due to the need to get up early for long commutes and getting young children to school on time.

Landscape Lights
Outdoor light systems can be installed in such a way as to unite Nature and human architecture into a balanced, aesthetic whole. Special tree, path, garden, and outdoor path lights can be configured into an illuminated network of natural vantage points serve as points of aesthetic definition and function as practical anchors for critical fixtures, transformers, and landscape lighting accessories necessary to linking system components together.

Some Houston companies, such as Illuminations Lighting and Design, are now beginning to use exclusively environmentally-friendly outdoor tree lights and install them using special techniques that protect trees from scarring and ensure their future growth.

In Royal Oaks, these techniques have worked hand in glove with unique deed restrictions landscape and whole house lights in lieu of prohibited streetlights.

Deck and Patio Outdoor Lights
As homeowners cut personal fuel budgets and increasingly entertain at home, deck lights and patio lights have risen in popularity throughout Houston neighborhoods such as Spring Valley, Hedwig Village, West University, and Rice Village.

Deck lighting can be done with minimal power costs by using a combination of led lights and lighting controls, making it possible to have cool-burning lights left on throughout the night into the wee hours of the morning.

Security Lights and Alarm System Integration
Residential lighting professionals can make even the most powerful, High Intensity Discharge outdoor security lights cost effective by linking them to lighting controls and motion sensors that only turn the main floodlights on if human body movements are detected.

Perimeter lighting can be handled with a variety of low voltage lighting fixtures that keep shadows away from the corners of the house and yard.

You can also have your security lights linked your existing alarm system, and we can install manual controls that will enable you to instantly turn on every indoor and outdoor light in the event of suspicious activity or impending home invasion.

Working with the professionals at Illuminations Lighting Design combines the value of commercial grade outdoor light fixtures and the advanced design and electrical skills of one of Houston's premier electrical and design service firms.

source:www.articlesbase.com

Solar Flood Lights – Provides Much-needed Illumination

2009-02-07T23:21:00.000-08:00

Solar outdoor lights are becoming more popular among home and property owners. Such gadgets that are considered standouts are the solar flood lights. A home owner usually utilizes lighting in order to provide more illumination to the landscape, especially during nighttime. Likewise, another concern when employing lights is to enhance security and safety around your property.

As conventional lighting that uses electricity can become a cause for you to pay higher utility bills, a good alternative are solar outdoor lighting. Sun powered products such as solar powered flood lights are quite easy for anyone to install given the simple and few parts that they have. Albeit, the latest in the solar technology as made the solar flood lights brighter and more efficient.

Flood lights can effectively provide better and more enhancing lighting. It is meant to highlight any garden feature or structure. Likewise, such lights can be depended on in providing sufficient illumination on the dart spots in your home exterior or garden.

For those who are skeptical when it comes to the quality as well as performance of the solar powered flood lights, it is known that the improvements in bulbs as well as solar lighting technologies have made great strides.

The fact is that many commercial and production firms who require lights on their surroundings especially during the nighttime are now using solar flood lighting.

Many of these firms not only want to save on utility expenses, and more so, they are concerned about the environment. Evidently the alternative form of energy that is solar is every environmentally friendly and does not produce and release harmful products such as carbon in the air.

Solar flood lights, indeed, can be provider of lights for aesthetic purposes. It can effectively accent any feature of the outside areas of a home property. But for many, the security that it gives is good enough reason for a home owner to install these outdoor solar lighting.

For more solar flood lights, solar powered shed lights and other articles on outdoor solar lighting, do visit us at Solar Lights and Gizmos blog.

www.articlesbase.com

Lighting Design: Choosing Light Fixtures for a New Home

2009-02-06T23:19:00.000-08:00

Building a new home is both exhilarating and daunting. Few things are as exciting as building a home from scratch, made to spec. It's rewarding to be able to choose everything from flooring, to plumbing, paint colors, appliances and light fixtures. Building a home is the ultimate opportunity to express style while meeting specific needs.

Lighting design may be something a homeowner has never before considered. This is particularly true if it's the first new home he or she has ever built. Light fixtures are first and foremost functional items. They provide the illumination that is necessary to go about daily life. Nevertheless, they do not have to be purely utilitarian. Light fixtures can be both functional and decorative. They can enhance the quality of a home and even add to its overall value. Choosing light fixtures knowledgeably can pay off in terms of quality of life and resale value. The following three considerations are the most important when it comes to choosing light fixtures for a new home:

* Choose light fixtures based on need/use. Evaluate each room in terms of the type of activity that will take place there. The kitchen is a prime example of form versus function in lighting design. Smaller kitchens may be able to get away with one light fixture in the center of the room. Larger kitchens, however, may require several banks of light fixtures. Track lighting can be useful in small kitchens even though it's more commonly associated with other rooms. Track lights allow you to adjust light positions to aim light where it's needed most. Remember to think about those areas of the kitchen that may need directed light for working purposes. The stove is usually one of these places. Another may be countertops where food preparation will take place. Apply these same principles to all rooms in the home. This will help you determine which type of light fixtures will be necessary and how many. It's okay to have light fixtures that are mainly for decorative purposes (such as sconce lights). However, be sure to supplement those with directed lighting.

* Choose lighting design based on the style of the home. Light fixtures should complement the style of the home's interior. For example, a contemporary home interior features clean, straight lines. Light fixtures in a contemporary home or room should do the same.

* Think about energy costs when choosing light fixtures. The cost of energy used to be an afterthought when it came to lighting design. This trend is changing considerably. Even those with deep pockets are concerned with the impact that energy use has on our environment. Just because a homeowner can afford to be extravagant with lighting design doesn't mean he should be. It's possible to achieve beauty, ambiance and value without doing extra damage to the environment. Homeowners should compare their budgets with the projected cost of energy use with any light fixtures they consider. They should also strive to be as energy-efficient as possible.

Homeowners can come up with a suitable lighting design once these priorities have been identified and determined. It may seem that a lot of factors are at play. However, it's possible even for the novice to choose light fixtures that are complementary and functional at the same time.

source:www.articlesbase.com

Track Lighting Fixtures: A Modern And Stylish Touch

2009-02-06T23:17:00.001-08:00

Track lighting has been around for years but what have changed most about these systems are the track lighting fixtures themselves.

In the past, the fittings that came with the lighting system were big and bulky. People did not care for that after a while and wanted something more attractive and more quaint.

Look for Fixtures with Inbuilt Transformers

Transformers are now built in the light fittings themselves and that is how traditional track lighting converts to low voltage fixtures. For example, the wall plugs that you commonly have at home have usually been converted from a line voltage to a much safer transformer, basically making them safer for this type of use.

Line voltage is used in your wall plug outlets throughout your home. And line voltage is the power that runs through homes and office most everywhere. So when you are working with this type of lighting you have to remember that there is a degree of voltage power running through it.

Shop Around for Smaller Track Fixtures

It is also important to remember that when people speak of low voltage track systems they usually refer to the fixtures themselves.

Track lighting fixtures have seen an emergence of low voltage fixtures mainly because consumers wanted smaller track fixtures in their homes. The smaller sizes have allowed for the production of many new compact fixture styles for both track heads as well as pendants.

Use Energy-Efficient Halogen Bulbs

In addition, low voltage fixtures use halogen bulbs which produce a different type of light, one that is crisp and white versus the yellowish light that is projected from the typical incandescent light bulb.

They also use a lot less power for the same amount of light.

Identify The Lighting Type You are Installing

Track lighting falls into three categories - H, J, and L types. If you plan to work on this project yourself, you need to identify which type you are working with first of all.

If you are installing new then it is strongly suggested that you use the H type because it is newer and has more design advantages.

Be Aware of Limitations

There are still some minor limitations on track lighting and the fixtures regardless of how far it has advanced. One limitation is that it is impossible to dim one light independently. If you have a row of track lights on a dimmer switch, they have to be dimmed together rather than individually.

The track lighting fixtures are a very important part of the whole lighting scenario and they will eventually be what everyone who enters your home will see.

Of course, you will want to integrate them with your décor and at the same time offer some versatility. There are really many fixtures to choose from and you will want to make sure that you choose the perfect ones.

The fixtures do not all have to be the same as many people have been known to mix them up a bit and they look just as great. Go with whatever works for you and you will more than likely end up with the result that is perfect for you.

source:www.articlesbase.com

Choosing Outdoor Lighting

2009-02-05T22:41:00.000-08:00

There are many good reasons to light your property at night, not the least of which is safety. Beyond safety, though, there are other considerations. Outdoor lighting can completely transform the look of your home after dark. Outdoor lighting has a reputation for being expensive to install and maintain, but it does not have to be. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your budget to install outdoor lighting that makes a statement and turns your home into a nighttime showpiece in your neighborhood.

Evaluate your resources and power sources. If you keep your lighting close to the house, you can save on installing new power outlets and additional wiring. If you do need to install wiring and outlets, there are do-it-yourself kits that you can install on your own. If you opt to install your own and you're not a licensed, experienced electrician, though, do have your work inspected by one before using it.

On the same note, check with your local code authorities before adding any outdoor power sources to be sure that you adhere to regulations. Nothing turns a cheap job into a huge expense faster than fines for violating local ordinances.

Consider solar powered lights for walkways and paths. Solar powered stake lights are an extremely budget conscious option for path and safety lighting. You can buy them in sets of four or six at your local home and garden store for as little as $30. Installation is as simple as driving a stake into the ground. There are no wires, and no drain on your electric bill. Most are powered with a battery backup for those days when there's not enough sun to power the lights.

Consider safety first. Decoration is wonderful, but your first concern should be safety. Use motion sensor lighting to illuminate dark areas on your property without having lights glaring all night long. Do not skimp here – your safety is vital. Do, however, check with your insurance company. You may get a break on the premiums for making safety improvements.

The second safety issue is illuminating pathways and steps to avoid falls and injuries. Path and stair lighting can be very decorative and attractive. One inexpensive option for stairway lighting are strips that fit along the edges of the risers. The light is indirect and shines down on each step so you and your visitors can see where you're putting your feet.

Less is definitely more when it comes to outdoor lighting. Avoid garish, overbright lights. An additional benefit to using fewer lights is a savings of wattage, and, in turn, expenses; both up front and in long term maintenance.

Backlighting and low lights can add drama to a bland landscape. Choose a feature to highlight and use a single light behind it to cast it in silhouette. If you shine lights through a tree, the overall effect can be truly dramatic.

Don't be afraid to be tacky. Twinkling fairy lights may be overdone, but a single strand of tiny white Christmas lights twining a potted patio plant or edging the patio deck can be surprisingly effective.

Turn to unusual sources. For instance, instead of using overhead or spotlighting for your patio or deck, rely on battery or solar operated table lanterns on your patio tables. Light your outdoor space just as you would your indoor space, taking into account ambient light and task lighting. Do not light what doesn't need lighting.

Driveway lighting serves two purposes. It should illuminate paths and walkways so that your guests and family can make their way safely from vehicle to house, and it should outline your driveway enough that drivers can navigate it safely. Consider walkway lights along the edges of the driveway, especially if the driveway is edged with stones, bushes or raised flowerbeds.

Providing good outdoor lighting can offer added security as well as extend your outside parties or other activities well into the night. Adding outdoor flood lighting will also enhance the beauty of your home and increase its value. There is a wide selection of decorative outdoor lighting from which to choose. Before beginning your project, consider these valuable tips.

Step1
Contact your local municipality on code requirements and adhere to these closely.

Step2
Call the electric company to arrange for them to mark any areas with underground wiring prior to your dig.

Step3
Purchase lighting fixtures that are comprised of approved properties and made for outdoor usage. Look for the Underwriter's Laboratory seal.

Step4
Obtain a ground fault interrupter to stop the current should the hot wire become compromised in any way.

Step5
Disconnect the power source to prevent electrical shock.

Step6
Ground the cable and lighting fixtures.

Step7
Dig your trench at least 2 feet deep to protect your cable. If there is above ground exposure use a conduit to prevent weather damage. Local codes may require the entire line be protected. Consider key placements for your fixtures and direct them away from the home. Prevent glare by using lower watt bulbs. Test your angles to make sure you are not flooding your neighbors yard or the street with your flood lights.

You can create many other different effects without much investment if you take the time to plan your lighting blueprint as carefully as you do your landscaping. Find interesting features in your landscape and use light to accent them at night. Do keep in mind that light pollution has become a serious consideration when lighting at night. Keep the lights low, and angle them so that they do not disturb neighbors or local wildlife.

source:www.articlesbase.com

How to Begin a Lighting Project

2009-02-05T22:30:00.000-08:00

by Eric Strandberg LC, Lighting Design Lab

Believe it or not, lighting design does not begin (or end) with the selection of light fixtures.
Start with an idea or concept.
• What kind of lighting do I want?
• How do I want the space to look?
• Are there any special lighting needs that should be addressed?
• Is there daylight available?
In some spaces (workshops, closets, laundry rooms) all you are usually interested in is bright shadowless light. But in other areas, (living, dining, even kitchen, or exterior) we are looking for a little style, drama, or to have the lighting make a statement. It is important to keep in mind the concept of layering the light. In most spaces you do not want to rely on just one type of lighting or fixture to do all the lighting in a space. At minimum, you need to consider three basic lighting needs; task, ambient, and accent lighting (though not necessarily in that order). Ambient lighting (or general lighting) is used in circulation areas, to fill in shadows or to control contrast. Task lighting is usually a higher level of even, shadowless light in certain key areas where tasks are performed. Accent lighting is a much higher light level (at least 3 times brighter than the ambient) concentrated at artistic or architectural points of interest.

After the concept, you need to decide what light bulb (or lamp) will best help to implement that idea. Some lamps shine in a given direction, others shine in all directions, some radiate even, shadowless light, while others have direct focused light that creates shadows and contrast. If you start out looking for a certain effect (or concept) and use lamps that are best suited for a different effect, or you will always be struggling to make the lighting do what you want. The importance of proper lamp selection early in the design phase cannot be overstated. It is also a good idea at this point to think about other characteristics of the lamp as they relate to various applications.
• What is the lamp life? (Will the bulb need to be changed frequently?),
• Is this a special bulb? (Will it be hard to buy replacements?),
• Does the lamp give enough light and how much power will it require? (Do not forget the electric bills!)

Remember that a light fixture is just a glorified light bulb holder.
I can think of a certain popular vanity light (no names please), that uses an expensive lamp, that has a short life, uses a lot of power (150watts) and gives off a dull yellow light. People like the way the fixture looks even though it has so many performance problems. It is like eating a meal that is unhealthy, expensive and tastes bad, but looks good on the plate.

Once the lamp has been selected then the optimal location for the lamp is addressed. We are trying to locate the lamp in space so that it can illuminate the subject in an optimal way. For example, if you are lighting a vanity you would not put the lamp behind where a person would stand, you put it on the wall by the mirror so it can shine on their face (it seems like common sense, but you would be amazed). If you are lighting wall art the light from the lamp should normally strike the piece from above at about a 60º angle. If you are lighting a workshop, the lamps are often placed directly over the workbenches. In all of these examples, we are addressing the location and direction of the light from a normal viewing perspective. This is often done unconsciously, but it helps to know the process.

Finally, we start looking at light fixtures.
• Do we want the fixtures to blend in with the architecture, or to make some sort of statement with light or structure?
• Will the fixture itself be highly decorative, or does it want to be plain and utilitarian.
Again, think about layering. Just as no one lamp type is right for all applications, no one fixture type is correct everywhere either. Not only does layering give more options for how the space is lit, (more than just on or off), but each type of fixture can do what it does best. For example, track lights for accent lighting, under cabinet lights for task, and decorative fixtures for ambient light. Often a fixture may do double duty; the accent lighting may provide task light, the task lights may provide enough ambient light, or the architectural coffer lighting may provide ambient light. This layering strategy is critical to creating a rich visual environment.

Before finalizing the fixture selection you may want to consider other aspects of the fixture. Evaluate the fixture with the proper lamp and from a normal viewing angle (for glare control).
• Is the fixture efficient? (How much of the light from the lamp actually exits the fixture.)
• What is the availability of the fixture? (Will it need to be ordered from overseas?).
• Long term costs of the lighting system (to buy, operate and maintain) and durability (is it appropriate for this application and will it need replacement parts?).

Source: http://www.elflist.com

Halogen, Heat, Hype and Hysteria

2009-02-04T17:46:00.000-08:00

by Eric Strandberg LC,

Lighting Design Lab

As halogen light bulbs (lamps) gain more market share and find their way into more residential applications the controversy around them continues. Some marketers make questionable claims about their products. (The Lab has a 300W torchiere on display that is boldly labeled "Environmentally Responsible Lighting"…which, by the way, couldn't be farther from the truth). Safety and consumer groups urge caution about the hazards of halogen sources for reasons ranging from excess heat to ultra-violet emissions.

This article attempts to put some of these issues into perspective and to dispel some myths.

Myth #1: Halogen is much brighter. True and False. In the case of directional sources such as PAR lamps and MR16s (low voltage), the halogens have a much higher center beam candlepower (CBCP), largely due to more precise beam control, than non-halogen PAR or R type lamps. Lets look at some 30 degree "flood" lamps (note the longer lamp life too).
65 watt PAR standard- 1700 CBCP, 1750 hours
60 watt PAR halogen- 2500 CBCP, 3000 hours
50 watt MR16 low voltage halogen- 2500 CBCP, 6000 hours

However in the case of 'A' style lamps (standard omni-directional lamps) the brightness difference is just about a wash, with the halogen lamp providing only about 10% more lumens. But the halogen does have about twice the lamp life.

100 watt standard- 1700 lumens, 1000 hours.
100 watt halogen- 1850 lumens, 2250 hours (see note 1 below).
When comparing higher wattage lamps, the standard incandescent is actually brighter.
300W "A" standard- 6200 lumens, 750 hours
300W T-3 halogen- 5950 lumens, 2000 hours.(commonly used in torchieres)
For fixture designers the big advantage with halogen is small size. The 'A' lamp is about the size of an lemon and almost 7" long while the T-3 halogen is about as big as a string bean. This brings us to myth #2.

Myth #2: Halogen is hotter. True and false. A 300W incandescent lamp gives off the same amount of heat regardless of its size, shape or type. However because most halogen lamps are small they have very little surface area and their bulb wall temperatures can be extremely high. This can lead to the fires in which halogen torchieres are so notorious. Many of the modern low voltage desk lamps have a 50W halogen bulb smaller than a peanut. Compare it to an "A" lamp (the size of a lemon) and its not hard to imagine which would give you a burn faster due to less surface area. However, if properly used and shielded, the small halogen lamps can make for interesting and safe fixture designs. Another way in which halogen can be perceived as hotter is through light concentration. As stated earlier, the halogen PAR lamps have more precise beam control resulting in more light and heat being directed in the beam angle. This brings us to myth # 3.

Myth #3: Halogen is more efficient. True and false...mostly true. For the most part the halogen products deliver more lumens per watt than conventional tungsten lamps. But it is up to the user to apply the appropriate wattage to achieve the proper light levels. A 75W halogen PAR30 uses just as much energy as the 75W R30 it replaces. (It will be brighter, which may or may not be a good thing.) I cringe when I see one of those square halogen floods being used to light a small parking area. These fixtures are usually at least 300W and unless you are planning to do surgery in the parking lot it is far more light than needed for most tasks. Probably the most efficient of the halogens is the low voltage MR16 (but not for parking lots).
Lets compare some common 50W lamps with similar beam spreads:
50ER30 = 1200 CBCP, 2000 hrs
50PAR30/H = 2000 CBCP, 2000 hrs
50PAR30HIR 2 = 3000 CBCP, 3000 hrs (see note 2 below)
50MR16 = 3160 CBCP, 5000 hrs!
Remember, these all use the same amount of power! The savvy designer may use a lower wattage lamp or use a wider beam spread and less fixtures.

Myth #4: Halogen is an ultraviolet radiation (UV) hazard. False and true, mostly false. A standard incandescent lamp emits about 75 micro watts per lumen(µW/lm) of UV, and unshielded halogen emits 100- 200 µW/lm. (Compare this to daylight, which emits 300 - 600 µW/lm!) However Underwriters Laboratories now requires halogen lamps and/or fixtures to incorporate a glass shield that brings the UV emissions down to a negligible level. For example, an MR16 with a cover glass takes over 30 times as long to emit the same amount of UV as an MR16 without a cover glass.

Source: http://www.elflist.com
Image: www.lightbulbs2u.com

Mall Parking Lot Lighting

2009-02-04T17:41:00.000-08:00

Mall parking lot lighting represents a critical component of high retail sales volume. Not only must it provide shoppers with safety, it must also provide optimal visibility. Color rendering should be as close to daylight levels in order to showcase storefront decorations, outdoor displays, and landscaping features that create an aesthetically pleasing environment throughout the general grounds surrounding the mall itself. Metal Halide lamps provide the best lighting source for mall parking lots due to their high CRI and their bright white light. When housed in superior, specification grade fixtures, they are also excellent for controlling glare. This is another crucial factor to mall parking lot lighting that warrants careful design and purchasing choices. Parking lots around malls experience a high volume of pedestrian traffic, and vehicle traffic tends to increase as closing time approaches. It is necessary to provide a clear horizontal footcandle density for pedestrians to clearly see the ground. Likewise, vertical footcandles in mall parking lots are also just as important, allowing motorists to judge distances between themselves, other vehicles, lighting poles, outdoor structures, and moving pedestrians.

Generally speaking, the higher the pole, the greater the area its luminaires are able to light. Provided the poles do not exceed local length limits established by dark sky laws, steel or concrete lighting poles of up to 50 feet in height can provide excellent site lighting for mall parking lots and driveways. It is almost always better to use cut off luminaires that are made with tempered glass and optical systems with specular facet reflectors. This creates a more diffused, but nonetheless bright, field of luminance that directs evenly toward the ground with minimal light spillage or glare, and it works toward balancing vertical and horizontal foot candle levels for optimal visibility and safety.

Unfortunately in a recession, retail often takes the hardest hit because people simply spend less money. One way to propose new parking lot lights to a struggling mall is to point out that an upgraded facility will not only add a new, visual appeal that will act as a draw, but it will almost always require fewer poles and fixtures than the previous system required. New advances in lamping, luminaire optics, and ballast technology allow fewer lamps to operate at a higher per lumens watt ratio. This will greatly benefit your clients by helping them remain in compliance with increasingly strict regulatory codes and dark sky laws that are intended to not only cut back on power consumption, but create a more self-contained field of illumination that will not blind the eyes of passing motorists or spill into the windows of neighboring houses.

Specification grade luminaires of this sort help maximize lumens per watt efficiency and help retailers weather the recession with more affordable lighting and power costs. In many cases, specification grade lighting fixtures for mall parking lots can improve energy efficiency as much as 300%. The initial front end investment in new parking lot lights and poles will help malls immediately begin saving money. This is extremely important to cities such as Houston, TX, where new energy codes will soon go into effect that limit outdoor site lighting around malls and parking lots to .15 watts per square foot. Only with the very best halogen fixtures can contractors hope to balance the mandates of code compliance with the obvious necessities of adequate light levels, color rendering, and glare minimization.

Source:www.articlebase.com

image:www.lightmart.com

Full Spectrum Lighting . . . things to consider

2009-02-04T17:38:00.001-08:00

The phrase 'full-spectrum lighting' is not scientific terminology, it is primarily a marketing term. It can mean anything you want it to, and usually does.
No filter or special type of glass can add anything to light - this is one of the most basic principles of physics. Light frequencies produced by a lamp can be reduced by a filter or glass, but new light frequencies can not be added. Beware claims made by vendors of special lamp sleeves or glass with special additives that will turn 'ordinary' light into 'full-spectrum' light - they are counting on you to forget 6th grade science!

What is different about the light from the lamps sold as 'full-spectrum'? High color temperature, simulating noon summer sky - very blue. This color is much different that the color of most home lighting. Excellent color quality, often above 90 CRI. The methods used to gain these high levels of color rendition sacrifice light output. Light levels from typical 'full-spectrum' lamps are up to 50% lower than other, equivalent lamps.

Extra ultraviolet (UV) light is often produced by the lamps. Most lamp manufacturers are trying to reduce the amount of UV produced by lamps, due to health concerns about holes in the ozone layer, skin cancer and glaucoma. While the human body does need some UV (through the skin) you get your daily dosage in only a few minutes by going outdoors. Only people who never get outdoors would receive significant benefits from an enhanced UV light.

Cost. 'Full-spectrum' products cost up to 600% more than most T-8 lamps.
Health claims By law, anyone making a health claim about a lighting product must file evidence supporting that claim with the United States Food and Drug Administration, in a form called a 510K. To date, no manufacturer of 'full-spectrum' lighting products has ever filed a completed 510K.

Anyone making health claims about lighting products without such documentation is potentially guilty of a Federal felony, and faces significant fines and possible imprisonment. The largest manufacturer of 'full-spectrum' lighting products is under a U.S. Eighth Court of Appeals injunction to cease and desist any such claims. Their literature no longer makes any health claims, but some of their sales representatives persist in implying health benefits. By making those implications, the sales representatives take upon themselves the full weight of the law requiring burden of proof. They are fully required to produce proof, and face the same potential criminal charges if they personally fail to provide such evidence.

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of clinical depression related to morning light deprivation. It is not simply being sad, or feeling blue. It is true depression, which is a serious, life-threatening condition. If you suspect you may suffer from depression of any kind, seek help from a medical professional, not a lighting salesperson. Successful treatment of SAD is based on exposure to HIGH light levels early in the day.

These are light levels over 500% higher than typically found under home lighting - similar to outdoor light levels. Below about 250 footcandles, it doesn't matter what the light source used is, because the light level is too low to have any effect on SAD. Above 250 footcandles, it doesn't matter what the light source is, because SAD responds to high light levels, not types of light sources.

To the human endocrine system, there is no difference between types of lighting. This has been shown in over 20 years of research at hundreds of sites sponsored by the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH).

claims to reduce glareGlare is a function of the ratio of brightness from the brightest object in your surroundings to the dimmest. Typically, the brightest object is the light fixture, and since some 'full-spectrum' products produce as much as 50% less light, the brightness ratio is reduced. Voila! - less glare, but not from anything other than being dimmer.

claims to reduce flicker Flicker from fluorescent lighting is a function of the ballast that operates the lamps. Nothing you do to the lamps will affect flicker. If you get headaches from flicker from fluorescent lighting, change to a new electronic ballast. 'Full-spectrum' lamps will produce the same flicker, if placed on the same magnetic 60 cycle ballast.

claims to be 'more soothing' Highly subjective, based on studies conducted by the manufacturers. No universities or other independent researchers have been able to duplicate study results using the 'double-blind' method of research required for objective results in medical research studies.

claims to reduce hyperactivity Highly subjective, based on studies conducted by the manufacturers. No universities have been able to duplicate study results using the 'double-blind' method of research required for objective results in medical research studies. remember, anything that sounds too good to be true, usually is. The 'placebo effect' means that up to about 20% of any group in a test sample will feel better regardless of whether there is anything efficacious in the substance they are exposed to. This means that for a 'medicine' to be considered to be really effective, much greater than 20% rates are needed. Think twice about extraordinary claims made for ANY lighting product.

If you have a medical condition that might respond to light therapy you should be consulting a medical professional, NOT a lighting salesperson. If a light salesperson makes medical claims ask to see their license to practice medicine. If the salesperson claims to have a product that has amazing beneficial health effects, watch out.

If they claim their company is a victim of a conspiracy by 'corporate interests', ask for proof. If they make claims about the product not supported by their product literature, ask if they are personally ready to prove their claims to the 8th U.S. District Court of Appeals, out of their own pocket.

Source:http://www.elflist.com

Dim and Dimmer

2009-02-03T20:18:00.000-08:00

by. Eric Strandberg LC, Lighting Design Lab

Dimmers today come in many styles and control many different types of loads. A typical home today may have a combination of line voltage and low voltage incandescent, fluorescent and even high intensity discharge loads. Proper matching of control system types to the load is very important. Not all wall box mounted dimmers work properly with all types of loads. Incandescent dimmer types include: standard line voltage (600W, 120V); high wattage (1000W -2000W); low voltage magnetic (inductive or volt amp); and low voltage electronic (solid state). Most of these require different types of dimming devices, though the covers and controllers can usually be made to match for a uniform look on the wall. Much higher wattages can be handled with remote dimmers. In this case, the dimmer is not in the box on the wall, but in a closet or other location and the wall box contains only the dimmer controller.

New dimming systems offer convenience and flexibility. The main feature of newer dimmers is the ability to offer "presets". This allows the user to set the light level to where they want it and then use a single control to turn the light to the preset level. This is a real convenience, allowing the creation of different moods, or scenes at the touch of a button. It also saves wear and tear on the dimmer. This preset concept can get quite elaborate, with master controllers operating multiple remote switches in more than one room. This allows for the creation of "scenes" for purposes ranging from entertaining to security. Several companies have products that allow for control of the entire house from a few locations. These products generally offer local override control from any room or zone. Most manufacturers offer 3-way controls (i.e., two devices that control one load or zone) but not all allow dimming at both locations.

Incandescent dimming influences maintenance costs. Most of the better dimmers have a "soft start" feature that ramps up power to the lamp over a period of a few milliseconds, instead of closing the circuit to the filament instantly. This feature lengthens lamp life. Some of the more sophisticated systems have fade on and off times that can last from a few seconds to a few minutes. For incandescent loads, this prevents a shock to the filament and prolongs lamp life. Also, dimming an incandescent lamp by 10% will more than double the lamp life. A common misunderstanding is that dimming saves power. While some energy is saved its not as much as you may think. For example, if you dim an incandescent lamp to 50% you are still using about 75% of the power. Dimming fluorescent lamps does not extend lamp life.

Fluorescent dimming requires special planning. Dimming of fluorescent loads has been possible for decades for full-size (tubular) lamps, but only recently for compact fluorescent lamps. The cost of fluorescent dimming has come down considerably in recent years, making it a viable option for many applications. In all cases, you need a dimmable ballast in the fixtures and usually a dimmer that is designed to control fluorescent loads. If you have an existing fixture that you want to dim there can be yet another level of complexity. Many dimmable ballasts need a control wire from the dimmer to the ballast. There are some ballasts that that can operate with 2 wires (which is typical of most homes), but check before you buy. For new homes it is not a problem to install an extra wire during construction but it does need to be planned for. There are also some screw in CFLs that can be dimmed with standard dimmers and these will be clearly marked as such.

Source: http://www.elflist.com/

Image: www.m-99.co.uk

Demystifying Track Lighting

2009-02-03T20:16:00.001-08:00

by Eric Strandberg LC, Lighting Design Lab

Track lighting is one of the most commonly used and misunderstood of the lighting system types. It is a powerful tool for a lighting designer but application can also be rather confusing without an understanding of some basic track lighting principles.

Because track lighting is very directional, track systems perform best as accent lights or task lights.
Track does not work well providing general light in large rooms.

Also, track lighting requires the assembling of different components to make a complete system. Track is a surface mounted channel that holds the lighting units (or "heads") in place and brings power to them. Because it is surface mounted, track is particularly easy to install, especially in remodel applications. The track is usually mounted to the ceiling but it can be mounted to a wall, a beam or dropped from the ceiling on stems or cables. Power is usually fed to the track from the end (an "end feed" or "live end") but it can be powered from anywhere along the channel with special adapters. There are also adapters that allow for various track layout configurations; corners ("L") and branches ("T") are the most common. Normally the various track components are only compatible within a given product line, which means that company A parts will not fit on company B track.

The beauty of a track system is its versatility. The track layout can be expanded or reconfigured, one can move the heads around, add more, change types, point them in different directions, and so on. This flexibility can be the cause of some problems when it comes to placement. To avoid glare and shadows track lights should shine at a near wall or directly down on a work surface. Keeping in mind that track is mainly an accent and task light, in most rooms the points of interest (artwork, furniture, architectural details) are at the perimeter as are the tasks, so the track should be placed 18 -36 inches out from the wall (for most normal ceiling heights). The higher the ceiling the farther out from the wall the track should be. The down side of track is that one sees the fixtures and it can look a bit cluttered especially in a low ceiling application. However, in the proper setting a well-planned track system can add significantly to the decor. Much of this information about the light qualities of track applies equally well to recessed lighting systems.

There are a dizzying variety of track heads to choose from though the differences are mainly cosmetic. Two track heads may look very different, but if they hold the same lamp (or light bulb), then the light output will be much the same. Most track heads use directional lamps of some kind and in general I recommend the PAR lamps as a starting point. PAR lamps are line voltage halogen, are energy efficient, have good optics and excellent color quality. When the lighting needs are particularly demanding my other favorite lamp is the MR16 (low voltage halogen). This lamp excels as an accent light because of its precise beam control. However, these optical properties cause shadowing that can interfere with doing tasks, so it is not recommended as a task light. Most of the heads that use the low voltage lamps have the transformer built into them so they can be used on the same track as the PARs. Both the PAR and MR-16 lamps are available in many hardware stores.

Remember, all light fixtures, but particularly track heads are just glorified light bulb holders; you are choosing the proper lamp and finding a way to hold it in space. Ideally one would pick the appropriate lamp for a given application (task, accent, wall wash) and then find a track head that will hold it. There are many track heads that hold fluorescent lamps, and these are quite cost-effective in commercial applications (due to the long hours of operation), but many homeowners may be put off by the high initial cost.

Source: http://www.elflist.com
Image: www.brandlighting.com

Best Uses of CFLs in the Home

2009-02-03T20:02:00.000-08:00

by. Eric Strandberg. LC, Lighting Design Lab

When you look for ways to lower your home lighting costs a good place to start is by using fluorescent lighting in place of incandescent. Fluorescent lights use far less energy to produce the same amount of light (lumens) than incandescent sources, produce less heat and last many times longer.

Compared to the old fluorescent lamps, the new ones have vastly improved performance qualities.
Better color
Lower cost
Smaller size
More reliable

You can convert to fluorescent lighting by either replacing the existing incandescent light fixtures, or retrofitting existing ones with Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs). Replacing the fixtures with dedicated fluorescents (fixtures designed only for fluorescent) is generally the best option, but this is not always possible. The other choice is using a screw-in CFL to retrofit the old fixture. These "medium-base" CFLs have the ballast attached to the base of the lamp.

One of the challenges in making conversions with CFL retrofits is maintaining consistent light levels before and after conversion. Incandescent lamps produce 5 to 20 lumens per watt and CFLs produce 20 to 80 lumens per watt. A good rule of thumb is to multiply the fluorescent wattage by 3 or 4 to find an equivalent incandescent wattage (e.g., 15W CFL = 45 to 60W incandescent).If you have a dimmer switch on the circuit be aware that fluorescent lamps need special dimmers and dimmable ballasts. There are a few companies that make screw-in CFLs that operate on standard dimmers, and the packaging is clearly marked stating this .Also, be aware that at the end of 10,000 hours, the CFL will have lost up to 30% of the original light. This is called lumen depreciation. Another area of concern is size and shape. CFLs are often longer and wider (particularly at the base) than incandescent lamps and you may need to use socket or harp extenders, or change lenses and shades on the luminaire.

The clearest way to lower home lighting energy use is to target fixtures that are on for long periods of time (3 hours or more). Kitchens, work shops, laundries, recreation rooms and home offices are spaces where fluorescent may make sense. These areas can use either large lamp fixtures, ideally with T-8 lamps and electronic ballasts, (see article "I Hate Fluorescent") or CFL fixtures. Exterior lights or table lamps often burn for long periods, and for these CFLs make sensible retrofits. Also, fixtures that are difficult to get to are good candidates for conversion because of fluorescents long life. Putting fluorescents in less used spaces, or where the lights are turned on and off frequently, like a pantry, garage or walk-in closet may not be cost-effective solutions.

Simple calculation of the annual cost of home lighting (NW $ Averages):
Annual energy cost = (W x H) x 365/1000 x $.05*W = watts, H = hours used per day
Annual lamp cost = (H x 365) /RLL x LCH = hours used per day, LC = lamp cost, RLL = rated lamp life
*$.05 is an average, use your actual electric rate

source: http://www.elflist.com
image: www.dbtechno.com

Resort Lighting Is A Reflection Of Luxury

2009-02-03T00:34:00.000-08:00

Lighting is a reflection of luxury. It combines the Universal, the functional, and the aesthetic in a phenomenon that is both a science and an art. Resort lighting represents the highest level of sophistication found in the lighting design services industry, representing a synthesis of multiple disciplines applied in such a fashion as to separate and elevate the experience of a luxury resort to the level of the timeless and the impeccable.

Commercial resort landscape lighting is rapidly rising in demand and popularity as management teams realize the need to showcase the entirety of a property as a single point of differentiation from the world of daily life. Light is an absolutely essential component to resort design, being essential to clear visibility of the grounds at twilight and nighttime hours.

It bears noting at this point that truly superior resort and hotel lighting must address interior facilities with equal attention to detail and finesse as that paid to the external layout of the grounds themselves. Without this, the uniqueness of the experience will diminish when guests enter the building.

Every element of the resort must be addressed as a unique, individual component of an interconnected whole. The restaurant is set apart for romance, conversation, and sublime escape from the mediocrities of ordinary life. The banquet hall is both decorated and illuminated with lighting themes that invite to celebration. Layered landscape and architectural lighting arrays emphasize the multi-dimensional elements of natural beauty blended with the finest human engineering and design. Pathways, outdoor dining areas, boardrooms, tennis courts, and even parking lots are both lit for safety and decorum, contributing like strands in a web of light to the exclusive world that resort lighting creates.

A balanced, systematic, and truly holistic resort lighting design creates this type of harmony between natural, architectural, decorative, and activity themes in every single element of all indoor and outdoor points of interest.

The key to creating this lighting-as-experience phenomenon lies in a wider selection of top-grade, commercial equipment that enable us to create more levels of light than competing firms deliver. Many landscapers, for example, blend only two levels of light to illuminate trees and pathways. Some vendors, however, exceed these standards with proprietary equipment that allows them to create additional layers of luminary embellishment to landscaping features.

This involves studying both the landscape and the architecture of the facility to determine common angles of incident between man-made designs and natural formations. This allows us to subsequently unite buildings with landscapes in a manner that results in a more aesthetic presentation of the entire property.It is also necessary for the design firm to create clear visibility through indoor windows into greenways and atriums on the other side of the glass. Again, layered lighting and superior knowledge of architectural angles of incidence are required to accomplish this delicate balance without generating excess glare that can distort the view. Normally, this level of knowledge is only obtained by lighting companies who form strategic partnerships with architectural firms and who cross train their employees in the basics of building design. This creates an awareness of certain critical elements of building interiors, special facilities, dining areas, and meeting rooms that a firm that specializes in lighting only seldom, if ever, notices.

It also helps for a resort lighting vendor to have an above-average knowledge of fine art lighting and design. Any resort serious about contracting fine art lighting and design services should first make certain the vendor they select has an equivalent knowledge of lighting and automation controls, as the equipment used for art lighting requires both precision adjustment and the ability for quick and simple end-user interface.Every resort lighting theme is unique and individualized to the particular location and nature of both the property and the corporate brand. The best outcomes are achieved in consultation and partnership between resort managers and lighting vendors who recognize the need for a high level of custom planning and ongoing consultation and partnership in order to achieve a truly lasting, and superior, presentation at the end of the day.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com

Image:http://www.illuminationslighting.com

Brightening up Gloomy Hallways in Homes and Apartments

2009-02-03T00:28:00.000-08:00

by Eric Strandberg LC, Lighting Design Lab

We've all been in corridors that never feel bright enough. Even though there are plenty of light fixtures and a window, it still feels gloomy. Here are some design strategies to over-come this problem.

Surfaces The first area to look at is not the lighting at all, but the surfaces. What are the colors and textures of the walls, ceiling, and floor? Are they light and reflective or dark and absorptive? Changing surface finishes is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to really brighten up a space. Often a gallon of light colored paint will boost the brightness. When was the last time the surfaces and light fixtures were cleaned? Dirty surfaces and fixtures may absorb over 30% of your light! If you can't change the surfaces, such as with lots of brick and natural wood, then focus on electric lighting solutions to the problem.

130 V Lamps vs CFLs
Because they are on 24 hours a day, common area lights in apartments often have 130 volt incandescent bulbs in the light fixtures. These are long life bulbs, but they put out yellower and dimmer light than their 120 volt equivalent. A good alternative is a screw in Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL). If your existing luminaire will accept a CFL, the advantages of longer lamp life, lower energy costs, less heat, and more light will be yours! The wattage of the CFL should be no less than 1/3 of the bulb you are replacing to achieve the same light levels (20W = 60W).

Lenses Some fixtures have lenses that aren't very efficient at transmitting light. Changing the lens to one with a higher light transmittance may improve brightness but be aware that more efficient lenses for your fixtures may be difficult to find. Also, replacing high density lenses with clearer lenses can lead to glare problems.

Placement In new construction (or if the above solutions aren't practical) take a look at new luminaires and placement strategies. Ideally, the new luminaire should have some surface brightness (translucence) but not too much or it will cause glare. Most of the light from the new fixture should reflect indirectly from a light colored ceiling. The luminaires should be placed by the doors, intersections, and stairways. Don't forget to light the end walls of the corridor so that the user is walking toward an illuminated destination. This is a good place to have artwork for visual interest. Try using a variety of fixtures for different tasks. Mix glowing luminaires on the wall or ceiling for general lighting and more directed light fixtures (like track or recessed cans) on areas of visual interest. The directed lighting might be focused on objects like artwork, signs, mailboxes, and phones. These directed lights could be fluorescent track spots, luminous soffits, or recessed wall washers.

Daylighting and Glare
Surprisingly, the window at the end of a hallway can create more glare than illumination. The contrast ratio between the high intensity of daylight and the relatively dim interior can create glare problems, even on a cloudy day. The window image appears hundreds of times brighter than the light from the luminaires, yet the window only gives about 15 linear feet of useful light into the space. There are a number of ways of working through an existing situation using drapes, awnings, and window treatments but the best solutions incorporate architectural elements that maximize the light penetration while minimizing the glare. Pay close attention to the reflective properties of the floor, as shiny linoleum can really amplify the glare problem! This can be especially difficult for senior citizens, with aging vision and visual adaptation issues. Proper common area lighting can have a great impact on the appearance, function, safety, and maintenance of a building and should not be left as an afterthought.

Source: http://www.elflist.com
Image: http://www.livingpod.com

Restaurant Lighting

2009-02-03T00:26:00.000-08:00

Restaurant lighting by a skilled and multi-disciplinary design firm will enhance the specific interior design, ambiance, furnishings, and decorations that distinguish a fine restaurant as a unique, exclusive establishment. Because of the many points of differentiation that make an upscale restaurant truly one of a kind, each restaurant lighting system features a high level of customization and specialized lighting effects specific to the individual client. By gaining a clear picture of the many lighting layers and lighting effects, a lighting system can be custom engineered and installed that will synthesize each of these various elements into an individualized restaurant lighting theme that reflects and enhances key elements of design, ambiance, atmosphere, and patronage.
In order to achieve the appropriate lighting levels and effects necessary for custom restaurant lighting, it is necessary for lighting professionals to cross train periodically in parallel industries.

When developing a restaurant lighting theme, consultants often draw from partnerships with architectural and an interior design firm whose imparted expertise enables them to catch the subtleties of building style and ornate decorum with just the right mood, level, and colors of light. Things such as ceiling height, coves, placement and position of tables, entrances and hallways, color and texture of flooring and carpet, and fine are decorations all can function as anchors around which the lighting design system is developed.

Additionally, windows are very important considerations for the restaurant lighting designer to take into account. Windows allow natural light to filter into the room, and this can potentially conflict with interior lighting arrays. A superior design firm will design a system that incorporates available natural light into the illumination of the interior.. For country club, hotel, and resort restaurants, many firms such as ILD in Houston, Texas will develop complimentary exterior, landscape, and architectural lighting themes that completely illuminate and bathe the entire property in light and set apart the building as a more refined, relaxed, and better reality than the surrounding world.

Establishing ambience with low-level accent lighting just inside the front entrance is also a very high priority. This creates a refined, romantic mood that distinguishes the world within the restaurant as a place of enjoyment, comfort, and retreat. Depending on the material build and interior architecture of the entrance, any number of ambient and diffused lighting themes may be created that are characterized by subtle shifts in luminosity and color that calm emotions. This often involves combining accent lighting with indirect lighting that descends gently in a "wash" of light from suspended luminaries or cove lights in the restaurant vestibule ceiling.Such themes can then be extended into the interior, moving around corners and around the walls with decorative lighting fixtures and special effects lighting used by colored lamp housings and proprietary lighting projectors.

Overhead recessed lights installed on dimmer switches allow for controlled levels of task lighting and seating areas. This creates visibility without overpowering the eyes. Chandeliers are excellent fixtures to use in this aspect of restaurant lighting design because they create just the right level of lighting in most dining areas and provide ornate, visual pieces suspended above the room.

A good restaurant lighting design reflects the best elements of dining, decorum, and escape. Make certain that all of these elements are appropriately addressed before signing off on a final proposal from a lighting design firm. Custom designers such as Illuminations Lighting will often offer restaurant owners to co-develop the general aspects of what they want to create for their particular establishment and develop a lighting system that expresses client expectation.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com
Image: http://www.web.ivenue.com

Kitchen Lighting

2009-02-01T18:21:00.000-08:00

by Eric Strandberg LC, Lighting Design Lab

"Good lighting can make an ordinary kitchen look extraordinary and bad lighting can make an extraordinary kitchen unworkable."

Have you ever been in a kitchen with just a central fixture? Even if it is bright enough, it puts out broad shadowless light that gives the room a very utilitarian feel, also light at the counter never seems quite bright enough because the ceiling fixture is always behind you and there is no light on the task area. Alternatively, there are the kitchens where practically all the light is under cabinet task light. This approach can be very dramatic and stylish but the space will always feel dark because there is very little light on the face of the cabinets. Paradoxically having lots of task light on the counters makes the cabinets seem even darker.

In each of the above scenarios the lighting is done only half way. The first describes all ambient light and the second has only task light. Good kitchen lighting, from an aesthetic and functional standpoint, incorporates both types of light. A third type of light is accent light, with accent light points of interest are highlighted to give the space extra visual appeal. This method of layering the light is important for achieving positive results in all types of living and working spaces.

Start with the task areas. These are best lit with bright, shadowless light. Fluorescent tubes are particularly well suited for this because of their large surface area and high lumens per watt *1. You want to get the fixture close to the task area, (in kitchens this would be counters, sinks, and tabletops), so mounting the lights on the underside of the upper cabinets is convenient *2. In the case of an island or peninsula counter top, with no upper cabinets to attach lights to, you need to use hanging, or pendant style fixtures to bring the light close to the task area. If this is not possible, you can project light from the ceiling (using either track or recessed fixtures) onto the task area.

The most effective lamps (or light bulbs) for track or recessed fixtures are directional lamps, these shine the light in a particular direction. The most efficient of the incandescent sources commonly available are the halogens. Halogen lamps come in line voltage (120 volt) and low voltage (12 volt). The low voltage lamps most often used are called MR16s. Be aware that these light sources have very defined beam patterns and cast hard shadows, which can make them a poor choice for a task light, but excellent for accent lighting (which I will touch on later). The line voltage halogen PAR30 lamp has a good blend of efficiency and performance so it is well suited for use in track and recessed cans used for task lighting. Since PAR lamps are line voltage, they do not require transformers like the MR16s and this can lower the cost of the system.

Think about ambient lighting. Ambient light is the general, overall light that fills in shadows, reduces contrast, and lights vertical surfaces to give the space a brighter feel. Ambient light is what you need for casual activities in your rooms. If the kitchen has light colored surfaces and lots of windows you should have plenty of natural ambient light during the day. But kitchens are used from before dawn until after midnight -- we can't rely on windows and skylights.

Fluorescent tubes are well suited to the job of providing ambient light. They provide broad, even illumination and their efficiency makes it possible to really fill the space with light without using a lot of power or generating too much heat. Choose a color temperature of 3000K or 3500K for a warmer, more inviting appearance *3. You can put the tubes in a central fixture but you may want to try some other strategies, like placing them on top of the upper cabinets to indirectly reflect off a light colored ceiling. If you have at least 12 inches of space from the top of the upper cabinets to the ceiling, this is an inexpensive way to brighten up a kitchen. Or, maybe you have a custom pot rack hanging over an island and can build lighting into it to reflect off the ceiling and down onto the island.

Add a layer of accent lighting. Accent lighting is what gives our space a third dimension, adding to the quality of the space. Accent lighting is used sparingly on those special home objects that we want people to notice and admire. Accent lighting is usually done with spotlights, and the MR16 lamp mentioned earlier is one of the best. You may be lighting artwork, architectural details, collectibles, or food presentation areas. Remember, good lighting can make an ordinary kitchen look extraordinary and bad lighting can make an extraordinary kitchen unworkable.

Source:Illuminating Engineering Society of North America IES, http://www.elflist.com/article08_kitchen.htm
image:www.planakitchen.com

Commercial Outdoor Lights

2009-02-01T18:16:00.000-08:00

Unless you have a few suites on the twentieth floor of an office building, it is likely that you either have had or will have to think about installing or replacing your outdoor commercial lights. There are many reasons to install lighting on the exterior of your business, and the each of the myriad of uses requires a different type of lighting. Finding the correct commercial outdoor lights for your needs can be a Herculean feat, but by looking carefully at your project, and consulting with an expert if necessary, you can significantly narrow down your choices, and possibly save money along the way.How could lighting help to cut down on your bottom line?

There are several ways this is accomplished. First, by installing energy efficient commercial outdoor lights, you can save on their operating costs, which will keep your electric bills lower. Energy efficient lights are easy to find now. You will want to look for low-voltage lights. These should not be used, however in areas that require a lot of very bright light, such as lighting a parking lot or sporting arena. For those applications, you need high voltage lights and a professional electrician to install them. The only type of lighting that a lay person should try to install on their own is low voltage lighting. This is due to ease of use and safety concerns. If you will be using low-voltage outdoor commercial lights, you will need a transformer to bring the 120V coming from the outlets down to the 12 or 24V of the lighting fixture. When you are choosing transformers, remember that the sum total of all the lights attached to it must be less than the power load the transformer is capable of. This prevents overload and transformer failure.

Besides being energy efficient, you should also be concerned with safety and security. Commercial outdoor lights fill both of these needs by reducing or eliminating shadows where criminals might lurk. Exterior lighting also makes working outside a safe option for your employees. There is a greater likelihood of accidents occurring if the lighting under which they are working is too dim or has too many sharp shadow contrasts. You will also have to think about the safety and security of the lights themselves. The mounting height of your lights needs to be out of reach of vandals, but still accessible for bulb and ballast replacements. Height alone, however, will not ensure that your outdoor commercial lights are safe from miscreants. You might want to consider re-enforced HID vandal proof lighting. This can help you save in the costs of bulbs and lamps on sign lighting which might be broken by pranksters.

Unless you have a few suites on the twentieth floor of an office building, it is likely that you either have had or will have to think about installing or replacing your outdoor commercial lights. There are many reasons to install lighting on the exterior of your business, and the each of the myriad of uses requires a different type of lighting. Finding the correct commercial outdoor lights for your needs can be a Herculean feat, but by looking carefully at your project, and consulting with an expert if necessary, you can significantly narrow down your choices, and possibly save money along the way.How could lighting help to cut down on your bottom line? There are several ways this is accomplished.

First, by installing energy efficient commercial outdoor lights, you can save on their operating costs, which will keep your electric bills lower. Energy efficient lights are easy to find now. You will want to look for low-voltage lights. These should not be used, however in areas that require a lot of very bright light, such as lighting a parking lot or sporting arena. For those applications, you need high voltage lights and a professional electrician to install them. The only type of lighting that a lay person should try to install on their own is low voltage lighting. This is due to ease of use and safety concerns. If you will be using low-voltage outdoor commercial lights, you will need a transformer to bring the 120V coming from the outlets down to the 12 or 24V of the lighting fixture. When you are choosing transformers, remember that the sum total of all the lights attached to it must be less than the power load the transformer is capable of. This prevents overload and transformer failure.

Besides being energy efficient, you should also be concerned with safety and security. Commercial outdoor lights fill both of these needs by reducing or eliminating shadows where criminals might lurk. Exterior lighting also makes working outside a safe option for your employees. There is a greater likelihood of accidents occurring if the lighting under which they are working is too dim or has too many sharp shadow contrasts. You will also have to think about the safety and security of the lights themselves. The mounting height of your lights needs to be out of reach of vandals, but still accessible for bulb and ballast replacements. Height alone, however, will not ensure that your outdoor commercial lights are safe from miscreants. You might want to consider re-enforced HID vandal proof lighting. This can help you save in the costs of bulbs and lamps on sign lighting which might be broken by pranksters.

There are many different choices for outdoor commercial landscape lighting kits, and if you are unsure of the type of lighting. Take a look at its application. Will you need it as security lighting? Or will it add an ambiance to your outside space? If you do not know how to install these lights, you will need to consult with a professional electrician. He can answer any questions you might have which are specific to your project. You can even find expert advice which does not require hiring a contractor to complete the job. This is a good option for those who wish to install their commercial outdoor lights on their own. If you have any questions, please ask our expert. He can assist with all your commercial lighting needs.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com

image:www.outdoorlights.com

Office Lighting

2009-01-30T03:19:00.000-08:00

by Eric Strandberg LC

As more of us work as independent consultants or telecommute, home offices are being used more and more. Many homes have an "office" in a room or part of a room where for an hour or two, a few times a month, bills are paid, letters are written or recipes are filed. This is not the type of office I am addressing. But, if you regularly spend six or more hours at a time at your home office then proper lighting can increase productivity, accuracy, and minimize fatigue and eye strain. Office tasks (whether computer based, paper based or a combination) require different lighting than most other areas of the home.

Don't watch TV in the dark! How many times have we heard that? The truth in the statement lies in understanding contrast ratios. The eye can adapt to an very wide range of light levels, but it can only adapt to one light level at one time. When one looks at a bright computer monitor on a dark background the eye doesn't know whether to adapt to the bright monitor or the dark background. When this happens hour after hour, day after day, fatigue sets in.

The same thing can happen when looking at a brightly lit sheet of white paper in a dark room. To lessen eyestrain: lower the brightness on the monitor; increase the light in the surrounding area; or both. Just the opposite problem can occur when one places a computer monitor in front of a window. The bright daylight surrounding the screen makes it difficult to see what is on the screen. It is best to place the monitor perpendicular to the window to minimize high contrast and reflections on the screen.

Another area of concern is reflections on shiny surfaces like computer screens and slick printed material. These reflections obscure the task making it difficult to read. Windows are often the most noticeable cause of reflections but other light sources can be a problem too. As you may recall from basic physics, the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflectance so if light strikes the task (or monitor) at the wrong angle it will bounce into your eyes. Moving the offending light, changing your orientation to the light, or both can mitigate this problem. This relationship is called Eye-Task-Source Geometry. Ideally the light should come from the side, for example; light coming from the right (whether ceiling, wall or desk mounted) will reflect off to the left. Light coming from the front will tend to reflect up into your eyes. Computer monitors also reflect light sources that are located behind you (over your shoulder).

All good lighting design uses layers of light, for the most efficient and aesthetically pleasing design strategy. The three basic layers are: task (putting high light levels only where we need it); ambient (for circulation and to control contrast); and, accent lighting points of interest (optional but important for providing visual interest).

Using fluorescent is an excellent choice of light source for both task and ambient light. I recommend 4 ft., high color rendering, tri-phosphor lamps (T8 or T5) with electronic ballasts in high activity areas like a home office. A good color choice would be 3500K. (see article; "I Hate Fluorescent") The long life, great color qualities, and high efficiency make it the logical choice. Also, the large size of fluorescent provides a large radiant surface that helps to minimize shadows. For ambient light you can use ceiling surface mounted fixtures, indirect pendants or wall mounted light shelves. For task light you can use fluorescent down lights (either recessed or surface mount) over the task areas or under cabinet (or shelf) lighting. Be sure not to locate a task light directly in front of the work area (like an undercabinet light), as reflections can bounce directly in you eyes. For accent light, a spotlight or two (either recessed or surface) that uses halogen lamps can be a nice touch.

Source:www.lightingdesignlab.com

Exterior Entry Lighting

2009-01-30T03:13:00.000-08:00

by Eric Strandberg LC

Less is more & Many are better than one - light levels and fixture placement. These seemingly contradictory principles applied to entryway lighting result in, inviting, uniform light levels. Use multiple low light level fixtures instead of one very bright fixture. If you use just one fixture, the area nearest it is too bright and the areas further away are too dim. Using multiple fixtures lets you put the light in the key areas of interest: near signs, by doorways and stairs, thus more evenly distributing the light.

Light levels at the entry. Glare is caused either by direct view of an unshielded light source or by too much contrast if the rest of the exterior is relatively dark. A contrast ratio of less than 5 to 1 is desirable to softly accent an area without creating glare. When someone leaves an excessively lit building, it takes the eye longer to adapt from a bright entry to the darker walkways outside, making it difficult to see.

Where does extra light go? In addition to causing visual difficulties, excessive light adds to other problems as well. All this extra light reflects off the surrounding walls and walkways, bouncing into the sky, creating "light pollution" (even concrete has a reflectance of up to 40%!). Light trespass invades adjacent buildings and light pollution reduces our ability to view the moon and stars, compromising our quality of life.

As our cities and neighborhoods grow, the overall night time lighting levels become brighter. This is due in part, ironically, to the availability of very efficient new light sources. Unfortunately, energy efficient light sources tempt property owners into using higher light levels instead of lower power consumption (see table below). As you can see, the 100 watt HPS is far brighter than the base case 100 watt incandescent. The result is light pollution, sky glow and light trespass. Additionally, extra light does not always mean we can see any better. The eye can adapt to very low light levels (moonlight is less than 1 foot-candle) and very high light levels (a sunny beach can be over 20,000 footcandles), but it only adapts to one light level at a time.A really bright entry makes the walkway approaching it appear dark. Low level lighting on building A, next to bright glary lighting on building B, makes building A appear dark in comparison. This may result in an upward spiral of increased light levels. From the table, a much better choice is the lower wattage metal halide or compact fluorescent (CFL), providing similar light levels to the base case but with reduced wattage.

Base case.

100 watt incandescent =1700 lumens.
Same wattage, much higher light level.
100watt High Pressure Sodium =8500 lumens
Lower wattage, similar light level.
32watt metal halide =1900 lumens.
32watt triple biax Compact Fluorescent (CFL) =1870 lumens.
Design Questions Aesthetics, functionality, and maintenance are major points to consider as you design a lighting system.

Will it work? Is the light delivered to the right places
Are there appropriate light levels for safety? Not just minimum light levels, is there too much light?
How does it look? Do the fixtures and lighting conform to an appropriate design aesthetic?
Is there even light distribution and low glare? Uniformity and low contrast can aid in visibility.
Will there be high long term maintenance costs?

For example, a 300 watt halogen flood light may cost $10 to buy while a 22 watt CFL costs $30, making the halogen appear the better buy. But if the fixtures are on 10hrs/day, they will have an annual operating cost of; $6.92 for the CFL and $63.70 for the halogen! (at $.05/kWh). Plus, the CFL lasts 10,000 hours while the halogen lasts only 2,500 hours. Good exterior entry lighting is based on many decisions, not just on first cost.

Source:www.lightingdesignlab.com

Commercial Outdoor Lights

2009-01-27T01:18:00.000-08:00

Finding the correct commercial outdoor lights for your needs can be a Herculean feat, but by looking carefully at your project, and consulting with an expert if necessary, you can significantly narrow down your choices, and possibly save money along the way.How could lighting help to cut down on your bottom line? There are several ways this is accomplished. First, by installing energy efficient commercial outdoor lights, you can save on their operating costs, which will keep your electric bills lower.

Energy efficient lights are easy to find now. You will want to look for low-voltage lights. These should not be used, however in areas that require a lot of very bright light, such as lighting a parking lot or sporting arena. For those applications, you need high voltage lights and a professional electrician to install them. The only type of lighting that a lay person should try to install on their own is low voltage lighting. This is due to ease of use and safety concerns. If you will be using low-voltage outdoor commercial lights, you will need a transformer to bring the 120V coming from the outlets down to the 12 or 24V of the lighting fixture. When you are choosing transformers, remember that the sum total of all the lights attached to it must be less than the power load the transformer is capable of. This prevents overload and transformer failure.

Besides being energy efficient, you should also be concerned with safety and security. Commercial outdoor lights fill both of these needs by reducing or eliminating shadows where criminals might lurk. Exterior lighting also makes working outside a safe option for your employees. There is a greater likelihood of accidents occurring if the lighting under which they are working is too dim or has too many sharp shadow contrasts. You will also have to think about the safety and security of the lights themselves. The mounting height of your lights needs to be out of reach of vandals, but still accessible for bulb and ballast replacements. Height alone, however, will not ensure that your outdoor commercial lights are safe from miscreants. You might want to consider re-enforced HID vandal proof lighting. This can help you save in the costs of bulbs and lamps on sign lighting which might be broken by pranksters.

Unless you have a few suites on the twentieth floor of an office building, it is likely that you either have had or will have to think about installing or replacing your outdoor commercial lights. There are many reasons to install lighting on the exterior of your business, and the each of the myriad of uses requires a different type of lighting. Finding the correct commercial outdoor lights for your needs can be a Herculean feat, but by looking carefully at your project, and consulting with an expert if necessary, you can significantly narrow down your choices, and possibly save money along the way.How could lighting help to cut down on your bottom line? There are several ways this is accomplished. First, by installing energy efficient commercial outdoor lights, you can save on their operating costs, which will keep your electric bills lower.

Energy efficient lights are easy to find now. You will want to look for low-voltage lights. These should not be used, however in areas that require a lot of very bright light, such as lighting a parking lot or sporting arena. For those applications, you need high voltage lights and a professional electrician to install them. The only type of lighting that a lay person should try to install on their own is low voltage lighting. This is due to ease of use and safety concerns. If you will be using low-voltage outdoor commercial lights, you will need a transformer to bring the 120V coming from the outlets down to the 12 or 24V of the lighting fixture. When you are choosing transformers, remember that the sum total of all the lights attached to it must be less than the power load the transformer is capable of. This prevents overload and transformer failure.

There are many different choices for outdoor commercial landscape lighting kits, and if you are unsure of the type of lighting. Take a look at its application. Will you need it as security lighting? Or will it add an ambiance to your outside space? If you do not know how to install these lights, you will need to consult with a professional electrician. He can answer any questions you might have which are specific to your project. You can even find expert advice which does not require hiring a contractor to complete the job. This is a good option for those who wish to install their commercial outdoor lights on their own. If you have any questions, please ask our expert. He can assist with all your commercial lighting needs.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/commercial-outdoor-lights-329032.html

Types of Commercial Lighting Fixtures

2009-01-27T01:01:00.000-08:00

American-made Commercial Lighting fixtures feature the highest commercial grade lighting fixtures in all major light sources used for building exterior, site lighting, security lighting, warehouse interior lighting, roadway lighting, and security lighting systems. Contractors and end-users benefit from a great freedom of choice when working with RLLD Commercial Lighting. As a multi-manufacturer representative, we maintain an objective stance toward brand and technology type, working through a nation wide distribution network that is quota free from our standpoint. This means that we will never insist that any company or individual buy a particular product from us to fulfill obligatory demands of our vendor status. On the contrary, we actually extend vendor privileges to our clients by allowing sole proprietor designers and electricians direct access to the relationships we enjoy with the world's top manufactures and giving them access to pricing and shipping services that smaller companies and individuals may not be able to obtain on their own.

Clients of US distributors like RLLD Commercial lighting can thus obtain fixtures of any type, size, intensity, and design simply by contacting and RLLD lighting specialist and placing an order directly through our distribution network. Our growing inventory offers the following to contractors, end users, architects, and building developers nationwide.IncandescentAlthough incandescent lamps are more frequently used in residential lighting applications, some commercial lighting fixtures also used this technology. Incandescent lamps pass current through a filament, which causes the filament to give off light. Because they are relatively short lived, incandescents are used mostly as decorative commercial lighting fixtures. Their ability to render warm colors effectively without ballast makes them well suited to this application, and the enormous variety of bulb designs make them highly soft after source of any type of accent lighting or decorum based commercial lighting design.

Fluorescent

Fluorescent lamps are used extensively in commercial lighting fixtures for a number of reasons. First and foremost of these reasons is their ability to use less power than other commercial lighting fixtures, making them very cost effective from an energy conservation perspective. Fluorescent bulbs also produce a very bright light that is evenly distributed, making them ideal commercial warehouse lighting fixtures, canopy lights, security lights, in interior retail lights in discount stores where high levels of general lighting help psychologically motivate larger bulk purchases of discount merchandise.Fluorescent bulbs produce light by activating phosphors on the interior of the bulb using ultraviolet energy generated by a mercury arc. Ballast helps start and operate the fluorescent lamps by regulating electron flow through the gaseous arc. Trends in fluorescent technology have made them more compact, increasing lumens per watt efficiency as high as 100 lumens per watt, and reducing the amount of toxic mercury within the bulbs interior. Fluorescent commercial lighting fixtures are best deployed underneath building eaves (as in the case of canopy lights), near loading docks, in wallpacks on the sides of buildings, or as large grocery store or warehouse lights. Placing them too far out into open spaces tends to diffuse their light output and diminish their intensity.

High Intensity Discharge (HID) Commercial Lighting Fixtures
HID stands for High Intensity Discharge. It refers to a technology where light is produced by a gaseous arc discharge using a variety of elements. Typical elements include mercury vapor, metal halide, and high pressure sodium. The arc tube within an HID lamp will contain one or more of such elements, and when current passes between the electrodes at either end of the tube, the current creates an arc that generates visible light.HID lamps feature the highest efficiency in lumens per watt output and also feature a greater level of lighting control. They also last longer than other commercial lighting fixtures, making them a wise investment for a company on a Spartan budget that cannot afford to continually replace equipment.

High intensity discharge sources include mercury vapor, metal halide, and high pressure sodium (HPS) lamps. Light is produced in HID and low pressure sodium (LPS) sources through a gaseous arc discharge using a variety of elements. Each HID lamp consists of an arc tube which contains certain elements or mixtures of elements which, when an arc is created between the electrodes at each end, gasify and generate visible radiation.

Light Sources and Lamp Characteristics:
Mercury Vapor (MV)
Mercury vapor lights were the first HID commercial lighting fixtures developed. They were designed originally to meet a rising demand for a very compact, high output, and energy efficient source of light. They are used extensively in a number of landscape lighting applications, being commonly deployed as tree lights in high-end commercial outdoor lighting systems. In other applications they have proven somewhat less effective duo to their inferior color rendering abilities, although this has improved to a certain extent over the years by phosphor coated interior bulb walls.The life of mercury vapor lamps is good, averaging 24,000 hours for larger wattage lamps. However, because the output diminishes so greatly over time, economical operational life is often much shorter. Efficacy ranges from 30 to 60 lumens per watt, with the higher wattages being more efficacious than the lower wattages.As with other HID lamps, the starting of a mercury vapor lamp is not immediate. Starting time is short, though, taking 4-7 minutes to achieve maximum output depending upon the ambient temperature.

High Pressure Sodium (HPS)
High Pressure Sodium (HPS) commercial lighting fixtures gained huge popularity in the 1970's to meet the needs of a powerful, yet super efficient, source of HID lighting. Lumens per watt output in an HPS lamp can be as high as 140 lumens per watt-approximately 7 times the luminance as incandescent lamps and twice that of MV or Fluorescent. They also last for approximately 24,000 hours---the longest lamp light on the market.

The problem with HPS commercial lighting fixtures has always been the quality of light they create. HPS lamps give off a yellowish or orange-tinted color and are not acceptable light sources for situations where illuminating a brand, architectural keynote, or any type of ornate exterior landscaping requires a high level of color rendering. For the most part, they are used in applications such as commercial parking garage lighting, warehouse lighting, and certain outdoor applications such as security flood lighting.

Metal Halide (MH)

Metal Halide (MH) commercial lighting fixtures are fast becoming the preferred source of HID lighting in most commercial environments. This is because they produce a very bright white light that nearly equivalent to daylight in its color rendering ability. The variety of applications is significant as a result, ranging from decorative street lighting, commercial parking lot lighting, car lot lighting, outdoor landscape lighting, architectural lighting, security lighting, and general site lighting. Traditionally, their biggest drawback has been their short lamp life-only 7,500 hours on the average.

Newer designs in Metal Halide commercial lighting fixtures include pulse start technology and ceramic metal halide design. These improvements have increased lumens per watt efficiency, control of the light itself through superior dimmability, better stability of color rendering, longer lamp life, and shorter start time.

Unfortunately, recent legislation has called for the phase out of certain standard forms of MH commercial lighting fixtures due to their use of incendiary elements that fall under the classification of greenhouse gas sources. This in turn paves the way for the most sophisticated lighting ever developed on our world, and quite possibly, the singular source of lighting used both commercially and residentially in the very near future: LED commercial lighting fixtures.

LED Commercial Lighting Fixtures
As technology improves, the ability to create truly "white" led light continues to evolve. LED commercial lighting fixtures are featuring higher lumens per watt efficiencies than their initial prototypes initially offered. This has opened the door for a number of architectural lighting and site lighting applications that were previously the exclusive domain of HID commercial lighting fixtures.
We are also seeing an upsurge in the use of led commercial lighting fixtures in street and roadway lighting, where a number of municipalities in the United States and Europe have reported some very promising findings in regards to both power cost reduction and the overall quality of street lighting itself.

Look for quarterly leaps and bounds in the engineering gains made by LED commercial lighting fixture manufacturers, and be sure to sign up for our RLLD Commercial Lighting Newsletter which will feature news updates and case studies about this exciting and revolutionary technology.

Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/types-of-commercial-lighting-fixtures-627283.html

Path Lighting: Add Lighting and Security to Walkways, Decks and Accent Features

2009-01-27T00:01:00.000-08:00

When we built home we thought we had covered every detail - from the mortgage rate to the lighting. What we forgot about was path lighting. After closing on our home and finished moving everything in , we set up for our first night. Looking outside all we could see was a long dark driveway and realized we did not take into account any outdoor garden lighting to illuminate the area. No paths or walkway lights, low voltage malibu lights - nothing.

Landscape Path Lighting for Added Security
My wife and I quickly noted it was very unsafe to have no lighting leading up the path or walkway to our house. We decided to be creative and illuminate our walkway with outdoor solar garden lighting instead of low voltage lighting kits. The outdoor garden lights look dimmer and boast an almost golden glow.

We put a small pond equipped with a little giant pump and put some outdoor solar lights with a copper look to them around the pond. We then planted several liriope as a border, a few small shrubs along with some annuals for flowers throughout the area and put more garden/path type lights allowing the lights to softly illuminated the plants.

Solar Lighting - Not Enough Light
We quickly discovered that solar lights were not a good choice for us to actually light up our walkway in all regions. We decided to go the low voltage lighting route instead. As we totaled up our outdoor lighting needs our total hit 67 lights and with a number that high the monthly electric bill would be running high - even with low voltage landscape lights.

We compromised - we focused on lighting close to the walkway first. These needed to be brighter so we went low voltage lighting in this area. The solar lights were used further away from the house. The initial cost for the outdoor garden lighting was affordable. The price difference between solar and electric outdoor garden lights was surprisingly minimal.

We used a few electric lights at the back of the yard. This added security. The solar lights were a perfect accent to the yard. The solar outdoor garden lighting did come in handy if the electricity went out or if we forgot to turn on the electric garden lights. We were both satisfied that with a little time and hard work we were able to create our own original walkway with a few plants a few statues and some great outdoor garden lighting.

Source: http://www.plant-care.com/

Architectural Landscape Lighting

2009-01-22T00:56:00.000-08:00

Architectural landscape lights should work to unite the manmade and the natural in a manner that is compliant with regulatory codes and affordable for your clients. While landscape lighting represents a focus on illuminating and magnifying points of interest in the natural scenery, architectural landscape lighting creates the sense that buildings and technology are in harmony with Nature and establishes a more unified presentation to anyone viewing the facility at night.

Developing an architectural landscape lighting system that will remain true to this intention without costing additional money down the line requires a great deal of planning and research. You will have to determine all the necessary photometric requirements of the system, locate specification grade equipment made in the United States by manufacturers who emphasize quality over quantity, and be willing to use pioneering technologies that many of your clients may not yet understand, but can quickly be educated in if you can just find the time and resources to show them all the benefits you can bring to their table.

For example, one of the most costly components in any architectural landscape lighting system has always been any type of incandescent luminaire, such as a quartz floodlight, that consumes too much electricity in comparison to the light it produces. Not only does this waste money, it violates recent dark sky laws in most places, and it also results in ongoing replacement costs as they fixtures inevitably burn out. Newer fixtures that rely upon electronically ballasted fluorescent lamps, improved HID sources, and now LED light bars deliver a better quality of lighting and comply fully with the recent crackdown on light pollution.

By investing now in specification grade architectural landscape lights, you can save your clients money on excessive energy bills and help them avoid a possible parts shortage that could hit those who wait until the last minute to replace mercury vapor and incandescent lamps. Instead, propose to them architectural landscape lights that feature fluorescent lamps and ballast controls with superb CRI, LED's that can save as much as 80% on power consumption, and HIDs featuring higher than ever LPW efficiency rating, you generate savings that translates into ROI and recession proofing the Spartan budgets of a very cautious and somewhat nervous customer base. You can do this too without sacrificing the visual component of the system as well. Our new generation of architectural landscape lights not only performs better than the previous generation of technology, but it actually features more attractive, diversified and decorative fixture housings in a variety of fixture housings and finishes heretofore unimagined.

RLLD Commercial Lighting's inventory includes everything from decorative fluorescent bollards, post mounted lights, LED Street lighting for industrial parkways and private thoroughfares, super energy saving low voltage landscape lights of every variety, and HID floodlights that can output more light with less energy than ever. All of our lighting fixtures, without exception, are made by world-class US manufacturers who produce them in domestic factories located within our borders. Because our sources are exclusively American, we ensure both quality and compliance and also pass on manufacturers' warranties unavailable to cheaper parts procured from overseas channels.
One additional benefit we deliver to both small and large companies alike is supportive, adjunct lighting design services with every purchase of architectural landscape light fixtures. We have invested a great deal of money in proprietary lighting design software that enables us to calculate the precise photometric requirements for optimal foot candle density and directional lighting control that you need to build a truly winning proposal. By nailing down the technical and regulatory details first, we can then help you focus on finding fixtures and accessories that add aesthetic value to your client's location. This in turn enables you to creating an architectural landscape lighting system that is customized to the exact parameters of your client's site and guaranteed to perform reliably with a minimum of maintenance for years to come.

source:http://www.articlesbase.com/managements/architectural-landscape-lighting-699414.html

Lighting In Its Different Aspects And Forms

2009-01-22T00:38:00.000-08:00

How many times have you gone to select the perfect light and returned home confused after going through so many types of lamps and lights? The question of ‘how to light my home?’ must have haunted you many times. Choosing the perfect light is indeed difficult, as your options are many and you need to take the right decision and invest in the perfect light. So the best advice is to plan in advance so that you can choose the perfect light.

Lighting forms an integral part of our lives, we need it on all occasions and at all places and in different styles, colors and forms. Lighting enhances the ambiance of a place or the significance of any occasion or place. Just imagine the different forms of lighting you have seen at parks, museums, and sports events, weddings, at homes, schools and colleges. There are specific lights for specific purposes. Lighting can be categorized as indoor lighting and outdoor lighting. Lighting usually depends on the purpose it serves. Indoor lighting can be classified as chandeliers, pendants, picture lights, wall mounted lights, floor lamps, bulbs among several other option. Outdoor lighting can also take many forms.

Colors also form an important form of lighting, whether indoor or outdoor. If you visit restaurants and dining places, you will get a warm welcome with soft, colored lighting to match the ambience of your dining. Low energy lighting is currently very popular. You will find excellent range of chandeliers that are available in excellent range of fittings with an elegant finish. Some of these chandeliers are adorned with crystal dressing to enhance their look and style.

If you are looking for spotlights and recessed lighting, you can have a wide option as well. In these special lighting series you can choose from commercial and domestic range of lighting. These are available in low voltage and are available in several kinds of wall models. These special wall models are suitable for almost all locations, whether you are looking for cabinet lighting, bathroom lighting or under shelf lighting. Most of these spotlights are adjustable so that they can reach different locations and are versatile. Once you purchase these lights you are sure to add a special value to your interior. If you are still confused about choosing the right kind of light, you can search the net and you will get many websites like LightmyHome, which can guide you with the right kind of light.

If you are thinking of any kind of lighting you cannot ignore fixture lighting. A light fixture is extremely important, as it is an electrical device that helps you to create an artificial light or illumination. Recessed light is a type of fixture light, along with table lamps and standard lamps which can be free standing or portable. So the next time, you decide to buy some lighting, give it a thought about the kind of light you need, the purpose of your lighting and of course the occasion of lighting, because your options are many and you shouldn’t get lost when you are purchasing one. And if you cannot trust your decision take some online help from websites like LightMyHome.

Source: Jamie Griffiths,
http://www.ezinesarticle.com/Article/Lighting-In-Its-Different-Aspects-And-Forms/230086

Landscape Lighting - Add Security and Accents to Your Home and Landscape

2009-01-22T00:13:00.000-08:00

Landscaping lights add a touch of color to your gardens. By using landscape lights in your yard, you not only add security to your home, as well as add beauty and style. You can add lights to any landscape design. Installing solar lights in your front or backyard is an easy chore that almost anyone can do himself or herself.

Landscaping Lights for Added Security
Solar yard lights are a great way to give yourself a little added security for your home. Lights will brighten darker areas in the yard as well as making it easier to see steps or offsets in your landscape.

Accenting The Garden
A great way to enhance your garden area is by installing solar outdoor lights. You can find all kinds of different styles of lights to enhance your landscape design. Lighting fixtures for the yard are usually inexpensive ways to add charm and style to any area. These fixtures make a great feature in rock gardens and flowerbeds.

Different Types of Landscape Lights
Lights for the yard are usually powered by two different sources. One option is line low voltage fixtures that get their power from your homes electrical system. Wires are run underground. These are used more for larger landscaping ideas and are better for someone who has some experience with electrical work.
Outdoor solar lighting fixtures have a solar cell that absorbs energy from the sun and stores it in rechargeable batteries. These types of lights are less expensive; however how long and bright the light shines depends on the amount of sunlight it has stored in it. With a few clicks, these lights are put together and installed.

Great Ways To Use Landscape Lighting to Decorate
Lighting fixtures can be used to decorate any yard. Use them to line a walkway or path to the house. Not only will they add light they will also add charm and style to any home. If you decide to use the electric lights, you can change the light bulbs in them to coordinate with any holiday. Use red and green for Christmas, or pastel colors for the spring and Easter holidays. This is a fun and easy decorating idea.

Yard Lights - Party Lights
Outdoor lights are wonderful for entertaining. When you have lights around your yard, it will make everyone feel welcome and make things a lot easier for evening parties. Using solar landscape lighting around the yard is also a great way to show off your newly designed landscape.
Lights used for landscaping can light up your yard and features in your landscaped area. Everyone will enjoy the beauty of looking into your backyard and everything all lit up.

Source: http://www.plant-care.com/landscape-lighting.html