When designing a lighting plan for a home, one of the most popular and versatile options to consider is recessed LED ceiling lighting. Recessed LED downlights provide ambient illumination and task lighting in an unobtrusive, stylish manner.
Compared to traditional incandescent and halogen recessed lighting, modern LED downlights offer significant advantages that make them a top choice for residential settings.
Five key benefits are driving the increasing popularity of LED recessed lighting for homes.
1. Substantial Energy and Cost Savings
One of the biggest advantages of recessed LED ceiling lights is their energy efficiency and long-term cost savings compared to traditional incandescent and halogen lighting. According to a comprehensive study by the U.S.
Department of Energy (DOE), LED lights consume at least 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 3 to 25 times longer, depending on use and operation. This adds up to provide significant cost savings over the lifetime of the LED fixture.
For example, replacing a single 60W incandescent bulb used for 3 hours per day with a comparably bright 14W LED bulb could save around $125 in energy costs over the LED’s 50,000-hour lifetime.
For a household with 20 recessed downlights, switching to LEDs can save up to $2,500 in electricity over a decade, according to DOE estimates. The higher upfront cost of LED recessed lighting is recouped within a period of 1-2 years for most homes, depending on the scale of the replacement and the price of electricity.
Beyond electricity savings, using LED recessed lighting reduces maintenance costs too. The long 50,000+-hour lifespan of LED bulbs means homeowners won’t have to frequently replace them as they would with 1,000-hour incandescent bulbs.
Changing hard-to-reach burnt-out bulbs is a headache, so the convenience of LEDs that essentially last for decades is a major perk for homeowners.
2. Increased Placement Flexibility
Recessed LED downlights are much more flexible in terms of positioning compared to the older halogen and incandescent can lights. Traditional recessed lighting emits substantial heat, restricting installation in enclosed spaces due to fire hazards and installation issues like melted insulation.
LED recessed lighting, on the other hand, produces minimal heat, allowing for installations in unconventional spaces and grooves like shelving, display cases, furniture undersides, and enclosed cabinets without worry.
Their compact, lightweight size also allows them to fit into tight spaces inaccessible to bulkier incandescent cans.
With advanced recessed LED lighting, homeowners can highlight architectural details, illuminate artwork in creative ways, and provide task lighting in areas difficult to wire. The U.S. DOE states that recessed LED fixtures are even being installed in stair risers, cabinets, and toe kicks for ultra-flexible lighting.
This flexibility in installing LED recessed lighting gives homeowners more options for unique and artistic lighting designs.
3. Healthier Light Quality
Studies by the Lighting Research Center (LRC) have found that the light emitted by LED bulbs is superior in quality and healthier for the human eye compared to incandescent and fluorescent light sources.
LEDs emit a more diffuse, omnidirectional light that reduces uncomfortable glare. This makes LED recessed lighting ideal for ambient illumination in living spaces, kitchens, and work areas where glare could cause eye strain.
Researchers have also found that the white light created by LEDs offers a more balanced and natural color spectrum compared to fluorescents.
This better mimics natural daylight and provides more accurate color rendering to help visualize the color and appearance of items and elements accurately in indoor settings. The LRC states that quality LED lighting enhances visual acuity, reduces headaches, and improves mood and cognitive performance.
Unlike fluorescents, which take time to warm up, LEDs achieve full brightness immediately without any flickering or humming. This instant-brightness output and silent operation make recessed LED downlights the perfect hassle-free lighting for bedrooms, reading nooks, and other living areas.
4. Smart Home Integration & Control
Many modern recessed LED downlights are available with integrated Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing homeowners to control these lights via smartphones and home assistants like Alexa.
Using smart LED lighting, it’s possible to set custom light schedules, automate away-mode settings , and control brightness levels for certain times of the day and for different areas of the house.
Smart LED recessed lighting gives homeowners greater control over their living environment.
For example, homeowners can simulate sunrise by programming recessed lights to gradually increase their brightness levels before waking up. Color-changing LED bulbs can also be controlled to produce a relaxing ambiance at night or an energizing atmosphere in the morning.
According to a survey by the American Lighting Association, integrated lighting control using recessed LED fixtures is becoming a popular choice among homeowners.
It gives the flexibility to manipulate and customize different lighting presets for cooking, reading, working, or entertaining. The flexibility of smart LED recessed lighting gives it a great advantage over conventional lighting.
5. Stylish and Discreet Design
Recessed LED downlights come in a range of compact, low-profile designs that blend seamlessly into any home decor. Their recessed nature gives an unobtrusive built-in look that is greatly appreciated by many interior designers compared to more visible surface-mount fixtures.
For contemporary homes, LED recessed lighting provides a clean, minimalist and stylish appearance.
The availability of color-changing LEDs, vintage filament styles, and interactive lighting scenes opens up creative design possibilities as well. Homeowners can use smart recessed lighting to not only illuminate a space but to also make it more visually attractive.
Compared to older fluorescent and incandescent recessed cans, which can appear industrial and harsh, modern recessed LED fixtures have a more design-friendly appearance.
Their small size allows them to be installed in grid-like patterns across ceilings to give a futuristic look. For traditional homes, LED recessed lighting can deliver a much-needed task lighting in a subtle, integrated way.
In summary, recessed LED downlights are an increasingly popular option for energy-efficient, customizable, and stylish residential lighting.
Offering multiple benefits including substantial electricity savings, flexible placement, improved light quality and control, and discreet aesthetics, LED recessed lighting outperforms older fixture designs.
As the technology continues advancing, LED recessed fixtures will likely become the dominant choice for ambient and task lighting in most homes.
If you are looking for ways and methods to brighten your bathroom lighting using LED lights, then you are in the right place. This article looks at five different options to brighten the space using LED lights.
Bathroom light layering
Layering involves going beyond standard overhead lights and skillfully manipulating the space with different styles of light to create a bright and friendly setting.
It is important to get familiar with the different types of light layering options. Your initial focus should be on Ambient Lighting as this type of light layering should provide a dissipated glare in the bathroom.
Also read; 10 Real Benefits Of LED Lights For Your Home And Business
Ambient lights will give you a clear lightscape of the bathroom, depending on the amount of natural light coming into the space through windows. This combination can greatly improve the lighting levels in the bathroom.
The second layer involves task lighting. For all activities in the bathroom, especially ones requiring a high level of focus, such as shaving, task lights can greatly help highlight the details.
Task lighting can provide an adequate level of targeted, bright light required for performing a certain task without straining yourself.
The third and last type of light layering is Accent lighting.
Accent lights are expected to be brightest compared to the surrounding ambient layering. Accents generally highlight unique architectures and wall decors to give them a much higher level of attention.
Applying these three levels in a well-planned and neat distribution can make your bathroom appear more attractive, more spacious and turn it into a comfortable setting.
Also read; Do LED Lights Get Hot – How Hot Are LED Bulbs?
Regardless of the size of the bathroom, installing several light sources can improve the design and feel of your bathroom.
Additionally, when you add large and distributed mirrors into your bathroom, you effectively amplify the amount of light within the space.
Choose a stylish Pendant
A pendant or a suspender is a designer light fixture with a special light source that hangs from the ceiling
It is typically suspended or hung by a cord, metal rod, and even a chain.
Pendant lights generally go in multiples and when hung in a straight line over the bathroom counter, can provide a great aesthetic and light addition to the space.
Pendants come in a variety of styles, from very basic designs for simple modern decors, to very complex and intricate pendants, satisfying more elaborate interiors.
Also read; The Future of LED lights
The placement of the pendants can become a fantastic focal point within your bathroom.
Additionally, pendants are very convenient as they can be added at the exact point where high light levels are needed, to accentuate the brightness of the bathroom counter for example.
Their focal light additions and convenience have made pendants more popular for interiors over wall lights.
Add a clever Light strip
As a rule of thumb, LED strip lighting installed at low levels is great for providing adequate low-level light in your space and can give great effects to the interiors, making the bathroom walls and the furniture inside the room appear floating.
Additionally, LED strip lights to provide low light levels, which helps if only minimal light is required in the bathroom, for example during a night bathroom trip, so as not to have a bright light shine in your eyes and keep you awake.
These low-wattage floor lights can also serve as guidance for larger spaces, to illuminate a pathway and highlight the space contours.
LED strips at a low level can provide a great sense of comfort, removing the inconvenience of disturbing others with bright lights, and also eliminating the hazard of walking into a dark space.
Installing a light strip that is dimmable or even DMX controlled can give additionally a variety of color and light effects to the bathroom, as well as give you greater control over the amount of light dissipated.
Flood the space with soft indirect light
Installing several indirect sources of light ensures uniform distribution of light within the bathroom.
It is important to note that the even and uniform distribution of light results in a comfortable and clear visual experience in any room.
The light emitted from the different sources will not directly affect your eyes as the light beams intersect and cross with each other to give a clear glare.
Installing directional fixtures to direct the light beams throughout the bathroom can additionally highlight specific features within the room, including a statement bath or perhaps a stone belt installation.
If you intend to have a general soft light in the bathroom, with no direct beam, general distribution and dissipation can ensure your comfort.
To create an indirect lighting effect in your bathroom, you can add LED strips within a designated molding in the wall. The most suitable place to install the strips in the bathroom is on top of the cabinet.
Sources of light fixed on walls and floors provide a reflective light, with the light produced by the LED source of light bouncing back to give a clear visual impression.
Keep your light out of sight
LED strip lighting is an adaptable and discrete source for producing soft lighting within niches, shelves, and under counters.
It has the additional benefit of creating a floating effect when installed underneath the bathroom basin or above and below a mirror.
Pay close attention not to install the LED light too close to the ground or too bright. Otherwise, the floor of the bathroom can become too shiny, ruining the soft effect.
For these types of detailed installations and effects, you must plan, stimulate, and position the LED strip carefully to achieve a smooth, hidden effect.
This article covers the essentials of bathroom lighting to brighten the space and to create subtle and interesting effects in the bathroom, to make it appear brighter, more spacious, and more comfortable.
What are LED downlights?
LED Downlights are a type of energy saving light fixture that is commonly used in residential and commercial settings.
They are designed for general and task lighting but can also be used to highlight specific areas or features in a room. Downlights can either be surface-mounted or recessed into the ceiling.
Compared to traditional lighting fixtures, most LED downlights produce warm lighting and greatly save energy over their operation. That’s why LED lights are energy efficient and last longer than incandescent lights or halogen bulbs.
Complete LED Downlight upgrade from as little as $33 – Saving up to 93% off your lighting costs! Learn More
Why Use LED Downlights?
LED Downlights offer two main benefits: energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
When it comes to energy efficiency, LED downlights are a great choice because they use less electricity than traditional light bulbs. They also last longer, which translates in longer operation and less frequent replacement.
Aesthetically, downlights can brighten up and improve the ambiance of any space. They create a warm, inviting overall atmosphere and can also be fitted to highlight specific areas of a room.
Downlights are a key ingredient of lighting systems as they are the foundation for good lighting plans, serving as an effective and efficient source of light for your house.
The compact appearance, its versatility and its ability to interface with other types of lighting fixtures such as pendant lights or spotlights make it a highly dynamic lighting fixture.
Choosing a good downlight option means not only effective operation, but also reliability and long lasting use.
Also Read: 10 benefits of LED lights over traditional lightings
▶️ COMMERCIAL LED LIGHTING UPGRADE .Upgrading to LEDs can reduce your business lighting energy needs by as much as 85%. Get a FREE COMMERCIAL LED CONSULTATION
Why is an LED downlight better than a halogen downlight?
LEDs are the top energy savers and they are up to 90% more energy efficient than their halogen counterparts.
They also produce less heat, which makes them a safer choice for use indoors and in areas with small children or pets. Halogen downlights can become a fire hazard if they are not installed properly.
What is the best type of LED downlight for my home?
The right LED downlight for your home should combine state of the art functionality and good aesthetics.
A powerful spotlight may be ideal for illuminating a large painting or sculpture, however, it could beat its purpose for a smaller item in a hallway or entryway, where a lower-wattage option like a downlight kit may be more appropriate. Not only will it save you energy, but it will also create a softer, more inviting appeal to the space.
That’s why it is important to plan the location and function of your downlights before making a purchase, in order to determine and locate the most appropriate solution based on your setting.
With so many options on the market, it can be complicated to determine and choose the right downlight, so keep in mind the below pointers to guide you towards the right choice.
Understand in detail how to choose the right LED downlight
➡ What is the purpose of the light? Is it for task lighting, accent lighting or general lighting?
➡ What is the size of the area that needs to be lit?
➡ What is the power consumption of the light? How energy efficient is it?
➡ What is the color temperature of the light? Is it warm white, cool white or daylight?
➡ What is the beam angle of the light? Is it a wide beam or a narrow beam?
Once you have answered these questions, you will be able to narrow down your options and choose an LED light that meets your needs.
Below we’ve compiled a guide to help answer your questions. If you’re considering installing an LED downlight, here’s what to consider when making a choice.
Wattage
The wattage of a light bulb is a measure of how much energy it consumes. The higher the wattage, the more electricity it will use.
However, wattage does not directly translate to the brightness of a light bulb. For example, an LED light with a low wattage can be just as bright as an incandescent light with a higher wattage.
When it comes to LED lights, it is more important to look at the lumens rating. This is a measure of how much light the bulb emits.
Beam Angle
The beam angle is the angle of the light beam emitted by the light bulb. A wide beam angle means the light will spread out over a wide area.
Credit: aisledlight.com
A narrow beam angle means the light will be focused on a small area. When choosing an LED downlight, it is important to consider the beam angle.
As a general rule, lights with narrow beam angles are more appropriate for small spaces, while those with wider beam angles are used for large spaces, in order to disseminate the light throughout the area.
The beam angle measures the extent of dissemination of the light emitted, defining the degree of the light. A 45° beam angle is typically used because the opening is low, while a standard bulb has an angle of 180°.
Since downlights are shallow, it is advisable to choose options with wider beam angles, up to 60 degrees, to allow for soft and uniform diffusion of lighting within spaces such as dining areas.
For other spaces that require a concentrated light output and light that is concentrated on details, such as kitchen areas, it is recommended to use downlights with narrow beams, at angles 25 degrees for example.
Color Temperature
The colour temperature of a light bulb is measured in Kelvin (K). A warm white light has a colour temperature of 3000K, cool white light has a colour temperature of 4500K and daylight light has a colour temperature of 6000K.
When choosing an LED downlight, it is important to consider the colour temperature. A warm white light is very appropriate for creating inviting and relaxing atmospheres.
Cool white light helps create a more modern and energetic atmosphere, while light fixtures with daylight colours create a bright and cheerful atmosphere.
When selecting LED lights for rooms where the temperature is likely to increase, such as kitchens or washrooms, a warm white would be ideal.
In general, warmer downlights are an appropriate alternative for rooms, and natural white 4000K is an excellent overall product.
Dimmability
Many LED downlights are dimmable, which means their light output can be modified and decreased from the maximum rating. This can be a great feature if you wish to create different lighting effects within the same space.
For example, dimmable LED downlights installed in the living room can be illuminated at full power in the morning to create an energetic and lively atmosphere, and the same lights can be dimmed in the evening to create a relaxing atmosphere.
Also Read: LED dimmer- Everything You Need to Know
Installation
Installing LED downlights is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the lights.
If you are not comfortable installing the lights yourself, you can hire a professional to complete the installation.
Warm White or Cool White?
Warm white LED lights have a colour temperature of 3000K. This creates a soft, inviting light that is perfect for living rooms and bedrooms.
Cool white LED lights, on the other hand, have a colour temperature of around 4500K. This creates a bright, energizing light that is perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
As a general rule, it is recommended to use warm white lights for living areas and cool white LEDs for work areas.
CRI
The Colour Rendering Index (CRI) is a measure of how well a light bulb renders colours. A higher CRI means that colours will appear more accurate and more realistic under the light.
For example, if you are looking at a painting under an LED light with a high CRI, the colours in the painting will appear closer to their real colours.
However, if you are looking at the same painting under an LED light with a low CRI, the colours will appear distorted or even faded.
When choosing an LED downlight, we recommend looking for a light with a CRI of 80 or higher.
Energy Efficiency – Lumens Per Watts
An important feature to consider is the lumens per watt rating. This is a measure of how energy efficient the light is.
For example, an LED light with a rating of 100 lumens per watt is more energy efficient than an LED light with a rating of 50 lumens per watt.
When choosing an LED downlight, it is recommended to select light options that have a high lumens per watt rating.
What is the best distance between LED downlights?
As a rule of thumb, we recommend spacing LED downlights about 3 feet apart. This will ensure that the light is evenly distributed throughout the room.
This will ultimately need adjustment based on the size, layout and function of the room.
Before you proceed with the installation, consider the beam angle of the light, as it will affect the spacing. Larger beam angle downlights should be spaced between 1.2 m and 1.5 meters apart.
For concentrated beam angle lights, a spacing of 1 meter apart is more appropriate. Once the distances are set, the downlights should be typically placed and distributed evenly across the room.
What is the best height to install LED downlights?
The best height for installing LED downlights will depend upon the type of light you are using.
For example, if you are using a recessed downlight, we recommend installing it about 8 to 10 inches from the ceiling. However, if you are using a track light, we recommend installing it about 2 to 3 feet from the ceiling.
How many downlight are enough for a bedroom?
The quantity of downlights will depend upon the size of the room and the amount of light desired.
As a rule of thumb, it is recommended to use one downlight for every 50 square feet. For example, if you have a 200 square foot room, we recommend using four downlights.
How do I choose a downlight colour?
The color of the walls of a room is important to take into account, as the temperature of the paint will emphasize the color and ambiance of the room.
A yellow/orange room might appear better under a warm white while a blue/white room might work well with a cool white colour scheme.
▶️ Get all your old fluorescent tubes changed to LED and receive unlimited downlights replaced per project at no cost. Learn More
Is 40 watt LED bright?
A 40 watt LED light bulb is equivalent to a 400 watt incandescent light bulb and produces the same amount of light.
However, it uses far less energy than a traditional incandescent light bulb.
In fact, a 40 watt LED light bulb uses about 80% less energy than a traditional incandescent light bulb, which makes it a much more energy efficient option.
Are there any disadvantages of LED downlights?
One of the main disadvantages of LED lights is that they are slightly more expensive than traditional incandescent light bulbs.
Are LED lights better than fluorescent lights?
Yes, LED lights are better than fluorescent lights. They are up to 80% more efficient and convert up to 95% of the total energy consumed to light. Only 5% of this energy is lost in the form of heat.
Also Read: 10 benefits of LED lights over traditional lightings
What are fixed downlights?
Fixed downlights are lights that illuminate in a specific direction, whereas track lights can be shifted to different areas. Fixed downlights generally have smaller diameters and are cheaper.
Is 3000 lumens too bright for home?
3000 lumens is far too bright for indoor use, and can in fact be annoying, or even painful to look at.
If you’re looking for an LED light bulb that is suitable for indoor use, we recommend choosing one with a lower lumen rating.
How many Watts are good for home?
The best option in terms of energy saving can range from as low as 4.5 watts and up to 14 watts in LED.
How do I lower the brightness level on my LED downlight?
Using aa LED dimmer is the best way to lower the brightness level of a dimmable downlight.
Are LED downlights good for your eyes?
Yes, LED downlights are good for your eyes since they produce little to no heat and very little UV radiation.
This makes them a much safer option than traditional incandescent light bulbs.
Do not hesitate to contact our lighting experts before installing downlights. We Provide FREE LED CONSULTATION and also help you claim government rebates so you can save big money on your lighting upgrades.
Also read;
- LED Downlight Installation In Sydney
- 7 Best Recessed LED Downlights to Buy in Australia in 2024
- What Are Recessed LED Lights?
- Downlight Replacement In Sydney | LED Downlight Replacement Offer
- LED Downlight 90mm – A Complete Buying Guide
- The Benefits Of Recessed Lighting(Downlights) In Residential Settings
- The 7 Best Downlights | Reviews And Buying Guide
- How To Change A LED Downlight Bulb Easily (Do It Yourself)
- NSW Schemes For LED Upgrades – $33 LED Upgrade
- Residential LED Downlight In Sydney
- Why Upgrading Your Halogen Downlights with LED Globes Isn’t Enough
In this world of market competition and a thriving industrial revolution, businesses tend to run at an optimum level.
Therefore, to achieve this climax, business lighting puts a profound impact on the sustenance of startups and businesses.
Here, we will discuss 11 indispensable business lighting tips that will flourish your business sky-high.
Why is business lighting important?
Have you ever been fascinated by the lighting setups around?
Well, research shows that lighting puts an adequate impact on your health. Your lighting setups can affect your businesses in dual ways, either good or bad.
According to American Psychological Association (APA), controlled workspace lighting enhances workers’ mood, commitment, and overall well-being. This in turn holds a critical effect on your business success.
Neuroscience studies have also proved that light intensity affects our cognitive performance and alertness level. From a business perspective, such impact not only influences the staff but customers and clients too.
This is why implementing effective business lighting has a great potential to thrive your business.
People are concerned about their business services and products. However, if you fail to optimize your space lighting, you might miss a lot.
Benefits of business lighting
An optimized business lighting setup can be a game-changer for the success of your business. Lighting demonstrates the way you present your business to the workers as well as potential clients.
Research has proved that lighting and illuminance have a profound effect on productivity. This leads to human performance and profitability in the business environment.
Let’s roll through some worthwhile benefits, you can achieve with top-notch business lighting.
Business growth
Business lighting is the core of your business growth. Over time, businesses are emphasizing their space lighting to be on an edge among competitors.
Business psychology is influenced by loads of factors. It is not just a product and a customer, rather tons of factors collectively define the fate of a business setup. Business lighting is one of them.
Will you ever enter a shopping mall with a blackout?
No!
So is the case of business lighting as a tool for your business growth. Where adequate lighting positively influences your workers and staff, it directs your potential customers and clients too.
A well-planned lighting setup can potentially bring lots of wonders for you, thus leading to the success of your business.
Employee satisfaction
Business sustenance without considering employee satisfaction is no less than a myth.
Employees are the principal component of any business setup who eventually leads a business to the road of success.
A recent study demonstrated that satisfied employees play a significant role in an organization’s performance. Satisfied employees tend to be committed and passionate which results in brilliant business performance.
Business lighting puts a great influence on employee satisfaction. According to Business Partner Magazine, considering space lighting is crucial to increased productivity and profitable business.
Hence, keeping your workspace lighting well aligned with staff needs can result in a profound surge in your business performance.
This will also lead to decreased employee turnover and enhanced satisfaction.
Enhanced space décor
Interior design and décor are getting quite popular with emerging competition in the business world. According to J Design Group, your space design is a direct reflection of your business.
Most of the visitors will build an opinion of your business s based on your space décor.
Business lighting is a great tool to add value to your space décor. A study conducted by Murdoch University shows that lighting is one of the most important aspects of interior design.
It impacts human impression, mood, and behavior.
Strategic lighting adds significantly to your space décor. It enhances the way your workspace leaves an impression on the visitors.
Barry Dixon, a renowned interior designer says, “A room should start a conversation before people start exchanging words.”
Hence this is particularly noteworthy for businesses to communicate their offerings through impressive space décor.
Ambiance
The ambiance is a powerful factor to demonstrate your business effectively. Business lighting is a sure way of enhancing the ambiance of your business setup.
Architecture, interior design, color schemes, and lighting, contribute to the ambiance of your organization.
However, in constant architecture, you can incorporate lights of varying color schemes to build ambiance as per the nature of your business.
Research shows a significant association of service ambiance with customer loyalty and experience.
Be it, staff or customers, an ambient environment appeals to everyone associated with the business.
Thus business lighting can be a great tool to present an ambient impression of your business and organization.
Quality customer experience
The customer’s perception is your reality, says Kate Zabriskie; a notable business trainer. Customers and clients are indispensable factors in the germination of your business.
Did your business ever face a customer decline despite the provision of quality products and services? You might be neglecting the business lighting factor to guide potential customers’ behavior.
Business lighting impacts your customers’ behavior way more than you can ever think. Research conducted by Georgia Southern University showed a significant correlation between lighting and consumer preferences.
An adequate business lighting not only enhances customer engagement but ensures a pre-eminent customer experience too. Professional lighting produces a lasting impression of your business in the minds of your customers.
11 Indispensable Business Lighting Tips
So far, we have discussed the purpose and benefits of business lighting. Having discussed that, you must be wondering how can you optimally achieve these benefits?
Well, professional and optimized business lighting is not a piece of cake. However, through strategic planning, you can ensure top-notch business lighting for your businesses.
Here, we will talk about 11 indispensable business lighting tips, that will help your business flourish and thrive.
1. Using modern lights
The lighting industry has evolved a lot with the emerging industrial revolution.
Gone are the days when traditional lights were used everywhere with less availability of contrasts, color schemes, and customization.
Today new varieties of lights are available in the market with advanced features and customizability.
Always make a strategic choice of light sources for your business lighting.
For effective business lighting, shift to modern lights which not only fulfill your lighting needs but enhance your corporate outlook too.
The market is full of LEDs, strip lights, clamp lamps, floodlights, halogen, and neon lamps.
These advanced light sources give you a chance to incorporate balanced lighting in your offices, malls, shops, and lobbies.
This way you get to deliver individual-oriented lighting to your staff and customers. Incorporation of these advanced light sources demonstrates a dominant impression of your business.
2. Incorporating smart lights
Smart lights are the latest advancement in the lighting niche. For businesses, smart lights can be a great tool to implement efficient and energy-saving lighting.
Smart lights come with the advanced technology of remote operations. These lights are incorporated with advanced features of remote controlling features through Wifi and Bluetooth technology.
Smart Light usage can be a great addition to your business lighting providing ease of operation. Smart lights save you energy by allowing you immediate control using a smartphone.
You can even control them remotely and prevent energy wastage.
Having smart lights installed also shows encouragement of technology in your business. Smart business lighting will not only give ease of operation to you and your staff but will be energy-friendly too.
3. Adequate brightness
Lights vary in brightness ranging from dim to glittering bright ones. Brightness is a considerable factor when it comes to effective business lighting.
For effective business lighting, always go for the brightness levels that are coherent with your business niche.
Assess the Lumens, that go well aligned with the nature of your business setup.
Research indicates that bright light adequately affects alertness and performance rhythms. This is of great concern in a business environment, where the growth of a business is a lot dependent on staff performance.
Incompatible brightness not only has negative health outcomes but presents a dull image of your organization too.
Business lighting of adequate brightness builds business appeal as well as enhances the focus of customers and the staff.
4. Using right colors
Have you ever imagined a life without colors?
Well, Wassily Kandinsky says, ”Color is a power which directly influences the soul”.
This demonstrates the importance of colors in the business environment which is all about influencing individuals. Implementing business lighting with a balanced color scheme is of great importance for business setups.
Color Psychology is a highly important factor of branding and marketing in the business world. Colors demonstrate the nature of your business and present a significant impression of your business.
According to Conversioner, color psychology can help increase conversions by demonstrating various purposes with colors. The following chart demonstrates color psychology:
Overall, a research study has demonstrated that blue-enriched white light enhances individual performance. This eventually leads to increased staff performance and customer engagement.
5. Ensuring day light exposure
The importance of daylight can never be denied on personal and business grounds. A recent study showed that daylight exposure holds a significant impact on the cognitive performance of workers.
It also helps regulate circadian rhythms.
According to MicroGrid Knowledge, daylight is an economical, energy-efficient, and budget-friendly light source for businesses.
Where it improves health outcomes and performance of workers, it helps reduce artificial lighting costs during day hours too.
Studies have proved that daylight exposure increases your serotonin and results in improved mood and prevents seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Contrary to that, reduced daylight leads to anxiety and mental distress causing reduced performance.
Thus ensuring daylight exposure to your facility is a great way to effectively enhance your business lighting. It helps workers connect to nature and show optimum performance.
6. Size compatibility
Light sources with compatible sizes prove to be a great fit for your workspaces. Light sources come in a range of sizes meant for varying space requirements. It is never a one size fits all phenomenon.
You should always measure the size of the lights when purchasing them for your business setups. A great way to do that Is to have a sound estimate of the space where you want to install them.
Just like you prefer an outfit of the appropriate size to appear good, your business lighting demands lights of appropriate sizes too.
Lights come in the form of small bulbs to bigger globes and long strip lights. For effective business lighting, you should consider which source goes well aligned with what kind of surfaces.
Strip lights can be of great help to have lights of needed lengths. The majority of strip lights come with an option of custom cuts so you can have them as per your required lengths.
This way, they fit well with various surfaces and workspaces.
7. Market research
Market research has no alternative when it comes to exploring available options in the market. With an immense range available, the decision to make a choice gets difficult too.
Market research can be of great help at this point.
Before finalizing your business lighting strategy, spare some time and do some extensive market research. This gives you insights into available advanced light sources that can give you an edge over the traditionally common sources.
You must be wondering how to travel from shop to shop in search of suitable light sources.
Well, with the widespread internet storm and eCommerce revolution. You can explore tons of available options just with the comfort of sitting at your home.
Yes, you can consult online catalogs of a wide range of available products. You can refer to online product reviews and testimonials to narrow down your choices.
Furthermore, comparing features of various products online can help you decide, which product you should opt for.
8. Choose affordable products
Businesses vary in the budget, revenue, and profits. Your business lighting strategy should be well aligned with your finances and budget.
Among so many available options in the market, you will come across products with varying costs. It is up to you to decide what sort of products will fulfill your needs without overburdening your finances.
A properly conducted financial analysis of your business would help you determine to budget for your business lighting. This way you can not only optimize your business lighting but ensure it to be budget-friendly as well.
Though business lighting often seems to be a bit expensive it can deliver you wonders too. An impressive business lighting setup can ensure a sufficiently higher return on investment (ROI) to compensate your investment.
9. Use durable light sources
With increasing emphasis on design and appeal, the quality of products often gets compromised. Such a naïve product can fulfill instant goals fails to perform in the long run.
Implementing durable light sources fulfills your business lighting needs as well as saves replacement costs too.
This is particularly important for outdoor installations where lights are vulnerable to significant external threats.
Ingress Protection (IP Rating) is a great tool to assess the durability of light sources. This helps you determine if a light source is suitable for outdoor usage or not.
This also demonstrates the protection requirements of the lights for outdoor installations.
Besides IP-Rating, consider the light material to estimate their durability.
Lights of metallic construction and strong frames turn out to be long-lasting and save you from frequent replacements proving to be a top-notch business lighting source.
10. Identify saving opportunities
Ludvig Von Mises, a famous Austrian economist says, “What makes a small business develop into big business is not spending but saving and capital accumulation”.
This is true for businesses around the world. Savings help your business flourish and increase profitability in a holistic picture.
As a passionate business owner, look for saving opportunities during the incorporation of business lighting too.
These savings can either be in the form of purchasing costs or energy consumption. Purchasing costs can be reduced by purchasing economical products from the available options.
Energy consumption can be reduced by implementing energy-saving lighting products.
In fact, shifting from traditional lighting means can be a lot helpful in this way to ensure savings in your electricity bills. According to Energy.Gov, switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the fastest ways to cut energy bills.
Viribright comparison of incandescent, CFL and LED lights demonstrates why LED lights are the most economical choice followed by CFL.
11. Seek help from lighting specialists
How important is business lighting for my setup?
Which lighting strategy would work best for my business?
Besides, how can I implement an economical lighting setup for my organization?
These kinds of questions are common when implementing an up-to-the-mark business lighting setup. Business owners tend to look for their answers. These questions can be best answered by a “lighting specialist”.
Yes, a business lighting specialist can offer you significant ideas to optimize your lighting setup. Such specialist guidance can help you implement staff and customer-oriented lighting to boost your business to new heights.
But, how can you even find out a superb business lighting specialist?
Well, you can search for famous specialists in your locality or get recommendations from your circle. You can even go a step ahead and approach online platforms to find a suitable business lighting specialist.
For example, you can explore them on Google My Business, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and other relevant platforms. An overview of their reviews, ratings, and testimonials can help you select the best ones.
In short, successfully selecting a top-notch business lighting specialist will be a game-changer for your business growth.
Wrapping up
Business lighting has a profound impact on the way your business flourish.
Effective implementation of business lighting can lead your organization to the roads of immense glory. However, an optimum lighting setup needs significant efforts.
These tips would be substantial guidance for you to incorporate top-notch business lighting for your organization.
So, utilizing these tips would be a great aid for you to bring your business to new heights and stand out from your competitors.
What is an LED light?
An Led light, according to Energy Star, is a light-emitting diode. These bulbs use less energy while producing bright lighting levels to meet the requirements of different applications.
LED lighting has incredible benefits that will make the switch from traditional sources to LED sources a great decision, not only on a personal, but also on a financial, environmental and social level.
Also Read: Why LED Lights Are The Better Choice For Office Lighting
In this article, we highlight 11 reasons and benefits that justify why this switch is a great decision and why taking this decision now is very important.
Who should purchase an LED Light?
LED lighting is universal, and it is for everyone to use. LED lights are commonly used for commercial, residential, industrial, and even agricultural settings.
LED lights have also been – for some time – an amazing addition to cars, used for illumination and indication purposes.
Also Read: 10 Real Benefits Of LED Lights For Your Home And Business
For any type of application and any level of light required, LED lights can be a great option to meet your needs, at a much better quality and value.
Different settings that LED lights are used for
Commercial and industrial
Led lights have become an important feature of commercial and industrial settings due to their high efficiency and directional nature.
The need to illuminate specific areas or zones within large spaces such as parking garages or streets and roadsides can be easily and uniformly fulfilled with LED light options.
Moreover, LED fixtures can, on average, operate up to 6 years with steady and continuous operation, and can have a maximum overall lifetime of more than 10 years! This is an additional factor why switching to a Led light is one of the most important decisions you can make in 2023.
Residential
LED lighting can have a great effect on residential settings as it’s available in a wide variety of styles, shapes and sizes.
Led Light alternatives for your home light fixtures can give a heightened effect and a more elaborate style to your house. LED lights can even be used for outdoor spaces such as pool lighting, deck lighting, and pathway and driveway lighting.
Different areas and rooms within the house have different lighting requirements, and the variety in types and purposes of LED lights make them a great choice for residential applications.
Agricultural
Led lighting has recently become more associated with agricultural applications, and according to AgriTech Tomorrow, they are used to modify plant growth, alter the flowering process, and even transform how plants taste.
Moreover, LED lights are great options for plants as they do not emit the same amount of heat that is released from regular bulbs, and fulfill the lighting requirements of different plants to grow and flourish, with no toxin production.
If you are embarking on a high-tech indoor growing project, LED lights can be a major factor in improving your yield, increasing your efficiency and saving energy and money.
Automotive
The efficacy and long life of LED lights make them a more attractive choice for a variety of applications, including lighting options for the automotive industry. Having high performance and reliable light bulbs within your vehicle is much more convenient than having to continuously replace damaged bulbs.
Additionally, LED lights produce superior light quality and a higher output than their counterparts, making them shine brighter, which significantly improves vision and makes them all the more effective for automotive applications.
The benefits of LED lights for these applications exceed the light output to also improve the safety of the driver, passengers and passerbys.
Why is switching to LED lights so important in 2022?
Many people underestimate the effects of LED lights and regard all lighting sources with the same view, under-appreciating their value and consequent multi-level benefits.
This section will highlight 11 major reasons that make a switch from conventional light sources to LED lights very important.
1. Business value
Led lights are becoming very popular, and their use has promoted great value for all types and sectors of business.
Led lights can be used in all types of commercial environments and can satisfy the specific requirements of each space in terms of light, convenience, and style.
The rapid switching of LED lights between the on and off positions gives them a great advantage for commercial spaces. Since conventional lights take time to turn on, they are often kept on, even when the space is not used for short periods of time, as it would be inconvenient to wait for the light to reach its full potential everytime the space is needed.
LED lights, on the other hand, can be instantly turned on and off, and thus can be switched off immediately when someone leaves the room, and can switch back on just as quickly when the space is needed. This capacity to keep the lights off during periods of downtime, leads to a lower energy consumption, on an already low energy use.
This method can result in significant financial savings for any business, lowering energy costs, which are typically some of the highest operational costs for commercial entities.
Despite the initial cost of LED lights which is on the higher end, the resultant savings from lower energy consumption, and the fewer bulb replacements needed, can easily show that the investment has a high rate of return and will add great value to the business.
2. Energy efficiency
Led lights are energy efficient as they consume reduced energy to produce the required lighting output.
This makes them ideal for large spaces, exponentially increasing the savings over a vast area for major energy reductions, and resulting cost savings.
3. Environmentally safe
Led lights not only offer great savings financially, but are also very important for health, safety and the environment.
Replacing your existing light fixtures with LED alternatives can have a significant impact on the environment. By reducing the energy needed to operate these lights, less harmful emissions are released into the atmosphere.
Moreover, LED lights do not contain toxic chemicals, such as mercury, as do standard light fixtures, and their disposal is safer and toxin-free. Even better, LED lights are recyclable, allowing users to reduce landfill waste.
4. Led lights can handle hot and cold temperatures
Led lights are some of the most convenient lighting appliances of our time. They can be installed in almost every possible scenario and will operate as intended.
Contrary to traditional light sources that suffer from degradation in extreme conditions, the capacity of LED lights to handle both hot and cold temperatures make them fit for a huge variety of applications, while ensuring that the light output and lifetime is maintained.
5. Lifespan
The long lifetimes of LED fixtures is a key factor to drive you to make a switch as early as possible.
Installing LED lights reduces stress and minimizes money spent regularly on fixture replacement.
In commercial settings, having a long-lasting light bulb can be very beneficial to reduce operating and maintenance costs; it’s not exactly ideal to have to change a street lamp lightbulb every month; making LED lights far superior for such applications.
6. Led lights are small and have a flexible design
The small size of LED lights allows them to be used for a wide number of applications, meeting small and complex details.
LED lights fit well where required and provide adequate lighting needs. The small-sized bulb can give almost double the output of its counterparts, while saving energy.
The miniature sizes of LED bulbs make them easy to fit on sheets and flexible strips, that can in turn illuminate corners, edges and grooves, better and more far-reaching than any other type of light.
7. There are different color temperature options
Led lights are available in a variety of color temperature options, and lighting color temperature has a great effect and resulting value on residential and business spaces.
The right lighting and color temperature can make a huge difference in the ambiance and mood of a space.
Led lights are typically available in 3 different color temperature options: Warm white, Bright white, and Daylight white.
Each color temperature meets specific lighting needs and is appropriate for certain environments.
Illuminating a specific environment with the matching color temperature can have a great effect on the space.
- Warm White – Warm white is perfect for residential settings. It gives off an inviting feel by providing warmth.
- Daylight White – Great for task lighting. Provides a more vibrant white light for larger spaces (Commercial settings)
- Bright White – A livelier color, that is a great option for task lighting, workspaces and work benches (such as kitchens)
8. Dimming capabilities
An interesting fact about Led lights is that they can operate at any percentage of their power from 0-100.
That means that no matter how bright or dim you need your light to be, Led lights can meet your exact requirements, making them ideal for all types of settings and multi-functional rooms.
The dimming capability means less power consumed and higher energy efficiency, saving unnecessary light and energy dissipated when not needed.
9. Less lighting fixtures
LED lights are capable of producing a higher light output than other conventional types of lights. They offer high flexibility in terms of light direction, concentration and distribution, to cover a wide range of angles. All these features mean installing LED lights in your space guarantees proper and uniform illumination, while requiring fewer light fixtures.
This results in significant money savings, and the larger space, the more savings LED lights can incur.
10. Instantaneous on and off
LED lights have a unique capability amongst other light sources which allows them to turn on and off instantaneously. Coupled with sensors, you will no longer have to worry about turning switches on before using spaces, or about whether you turned a light off after you left a room.
This great feature allows LED lights to add huge savings in terms of initial and operational cost. The fact that LED lights can provide immediate light output where needed, means they can be coupled with sensors to illuminate the direct spaces in offices, industries or streets – in contrast to conventional light, that either needs to be kept on – thereby wasting energy – or if coupled with sensors, they need to illuminate larger areas to make sure the light level is achieved.
Using LED lights with sensors adds an additional convenience where you no longer have to worry about manually turning off switches when leaving a space, or having to go back to check the space.
11. Low voltage
LED lights operate on a low voltage, making them ideal for outdoor applications. Outdoor lighting often necessitates a suitable light that is long lasting and can operate in rough conditions.
The low voltage operation of LED lights results in a safer installation and operation of these lights, and minimizes risk of electrocution, if the lights are exposed. LED lights improve outdoor lighting safety while meeting the different requirements of outdoor settings.
Additionally, the long lifespan of LED lights makes them a great choice for the outdoors, as they necessitate less maintenance and operation.
Types of LED lights
Aircraft LED
This type of Led lighting is only used for aviation purposes, offering high degrees of efficiency and reliability to meet aircraft and aviation lighting requirements.
Grow LED
In the indoor agricultural realm, Led lighting has become an essential factor in providing key lighting colors, temperatures and effects to make the process both efficient and productive.
Rope LED
This type of lighting is great for decorative purposes due to its low brightness levels.
Strip LED
Strip lights have a low profile shape and a flexible design that results in an easy installation process. Applications can range from kitchen décor to office rooms and Led strips can be controlled through wireless dimming systems.
Commercial LED
Commercial spaces are generally large spaces, and commercial LED lights can meet the intense lighting requirements of these entities very efficiently.
This makes Commercial LED lights great for savings, but also very good for the environment, and they are quite durable to use for outdoors spaces.
Industrial LED
Industrial spaces require very high lighting levels, and LED lights are the best options for industries as they are easy to install and maintain, and end up saving greatly on operational costs. (Area lights and floodlights are good examples of industrial Led lights)
Portable/ Workshop LED
These are very convenient, environmentally and budget friendly accessories. These Led lights are available in either suspension or surface mounted applications and are ideal for garage spaces.
These types of LED lights are also available in IP rated and durable options, to withstand the rough environments of workshops.
High operation temperature LED
LED lights withstand high temperatures and can effectively be conveniently used in several locations and applications where excessive temperatures are present.
Wet location LED
Wet location LED lights are essential for all applications where humidity and water exposure is a risk for lighting fixtures. There are also advanced types that are resistant to rust damage from high exposure to sea salt, and are great options for long lasting applications by bodies of water.
Wrapping up
The advantages and benefits that LED lights offer extend to cover all lighting applications and settings. They are easy to install, can fulfill complex lighting requirements, offer multiple capabilities from dimming to multi-color temperature and improve the overall decor of any space.
Moreover, LED lights are energy saving, and offer huge cumulative power and financial savings over their long operational lifetime. Not only does this benefit the direct customer, but this also has a wide-reaching effect on emission reductions, and on saving the environment.
Switching to LED lights is a great personal, financial and socially-responsible decision to make, that will offer major benefits and a high return on investment.
Solar garden lighting has become extremely popular nowadays as a simple means to illuminate landscapes with long term savings on the energy bill.
Solar garden lights are powered up by sunlight. The most common materials used to manufacture these lighting systems are glass, plastic, metal, copper wires, and fibre optic wires.
The installation process of solar lights is quite simple, reaching the desired results and effects rapidly.
All that is needed is a proper installation and direction within the garden, and the garden lights take care of harnessing sunlight and powering up during the night.
Solar lighting is becoming more appealing, with advances in illumination to achieve higher brightness and even longer operational times.
Most solar lights are fitted with an integrated photosensor, which detects the ambient light levels at sunset and at sunrise and turns the lights on and off accordingly.
Garden Solar Lights
A garden illuminated with solar lights will not only appear comfortable and inviting, but will also promote security as these lights act as a deterrent factor for criminals.
Proper distribution of garden solar lights improves the appeal of the garden at night and also the safety of the household.
Why use solar lights for the garden?
Not only are solar garden lights very convenient and very reliable sources of lighting, their cost is also very reasonable.
When weighed against the cost of electricity and the payments required over the lifetime of the light, the initial cost on the long run becomes insignificant.
Moreover, as these lights draw their energy from the sun, their operation does not affect the soil quality, as they don’t use electricity fed from electric outlets by cables running in the ground.
Solar garden lights are also much safer to use compared to their alternatives. They are eco-friendly, which means they have a positive impact on the environment.
Solar garden lights do not pollute the air, and when installed and laid out in a well-planned manner, they give the garden a natural and soft look which makes it very appealing to the eyes.
Are Garden solar lights good?
Garden solar lights used to be considered luxury items that were out of budget for the average consumer.
However, with time, they have become more affordable and much more efficient, greatly raising their popularity with consumers.
However, before rushing to purchase the first set of solar lights in the market, you need to make sure the lights you get meet your requirements and are suitable for your specific settings.
The lights should be able to provide enough brightness for the garden, to meet the operational requirements of the space, and should be planned and distributed in a way not to overcrowd the garden with solar lights.
Do solar garden lights Last long?
Another important feature to consider when purchasing solar garden lights is their longevity.
Even if they are more expensive, it is worth investing in solar garden lights that can last for many years. In most cases, solar light batteries are designed to last 3 to 4 years.
This means the battery will recharge multiple times until the power is entirely depleted.
However, various factors can influence the lifetime and operation of the battery, such as the type of light bulb used, the solar lights’ position and the cleanliness of the solar panel.
Do solar garden lights operate during winter?
During winter, solar lights work just the same provided the solar panel receives sufficient sunlight to charge the batteries and to keep the lights operational, assuming no malfunctions occur.
Solar power is sometimes misinterpreted in its need for sunlight to operate, the most significant factor for the proper operation is actually the light and not the heat.
Accordingly, no matter how cold it gets during winter, the solar lights will keep working.
The only drawback from winter operation is that the solar lights will not receive the same amount of sunlight they would in the summer due to shorter winter days and fewer daylight hours.
Below are some of the best solar lights currently available in Australia
OxyLED Solar Lanterns:
These are illuminated by amber-colored LED candles that flicker. They have 600mAh NiMH rechargeable batteries and an automated on/off feature.
A full charge takes roughly eight hours to complete and can operate the lights for eight hours. According to the manufacturer, the bodies of the lanterns are waterproof and weather-proof.
Otdair Solar Ground Lights:
The built-in 600mAh batteries in the Otdair Solar Ground Lights can last up to 10 hours. For enhanced brightness, each light contains eight LED lights.
These lights are waterproof, and according to the company, can also survive frost and snow. In addition, the lights switch on and off automatically at night and at dawn.
Lytworx 100 Multi-Color LED 2 Function Solar Fairy Lights:
Very stylish lights, this type is ideal for decorating gardens, picnic spots, and other outdoor settings.
These lights are 4.9m long and have dual function settings: flash and steady. They also have an automated lighting system built-in.
According to the reviewers, these lights are easy to set up and long-lasting.
They’re multi-colored, giving any outside space a lively yet comfortable and relaxed ambiance.
The lights are highly interactive and most people are fascinated by the switch these lights make from a steady glow to a spectacular ball of light with a single button press.
These aren’t the brightest fairy lights on the market, but considering they are solar powered, they illuminate the space quite nicely.
Gardenglo 400lm Solar Powered LED Spotlights:
These lights are connected to the panel by three-meter cables. The structure of the light fixtures is made of die-cast aluminum that is resistant to the harshest conditions.
The panel is composed of plastic, but has a high-quality feel to it. The lights are both bright and long-lasting.
Although this type is more expensive than market spotlights, consumers will be impressed with the quality of build and performance of this type of light.
Arlec 5W Integrated Solar Powered Sensor LED Floodlight
The Arlec solar garden light has dual modes and can function for up to 16 hours. It also features a six-meter detection range and a scan range of 120 degrees.
The body is composed of high-quality plastic, and the mounting bracket is made of aluminum. This solar lamp is rated IP65 and produces a 500 lumens output.
Top 10 Best Garden Solar Lights
1. Agoist Solar Ground Lights
Manufactured by Agoistic, this light is a modern and stylish product, with a solar power source and an LED type bulb.
An LED lighting product with high durability and effectiveness, this product has a round shape and a stainless steel body.
Technical product description
- Size – 5.1 x 4.7 inches
- Product model number – Solar ground light
- Special feature – Instant on
- Voltage – 1.2 volts
- Wattage – 4 watts
- Battery cell type – NiMH
- Battery included – yes
- Battery required – no
- Control – easy
- Warranty description – 1 year
- Estimated battery life – 8 hours
- Rated brightness – 8 LEDs
- Weather resistance rating: IP65
Reasons to buy this product:
1. Long operating time – Each solar light is equipped with a 600 mAH rechargeable battery. After a full charge, the battery can operate the light for up to 8-10 hours and provide consistent lighting even on cloudy days.
2. Easy installation – Installing the lights at the desired location takes 15-20 seconds using the spike feature to fix the light to the ground. If the ground is too hard, do not attempt to twist or hammer the spike into place, instead use water to soften the ground and dig a proper hole for the spike.
3. Automatic functioning – the light fixture works automatically. Once the switch is turned on, the light will automatically turn on once it’s dark and turn off in the day or under a bright light.
4. Good design – this fixture is made of high-strength ABS, which makes it perfect for outdoor use, capable of withstanding the effects of rain, snow, ice, or sleet.
5. intelligent light control
6. Environmental protection – no utility power consumption means lighting functionality with power saving for a low-carbon setting and environmental protection.
Drawback(s):
- After a year or two of operation, the battery should be replaced as its capacity to hold a charge degrades over time.
2. Aityvert Solar Lights Solar Flickering Flame Torch
This product is a solar powered lighting manufactured by ACSTAR LTD, with an LED light source and plastic housing.
Technical product description
- Height – 42.9 inches
- Solar panel – 0.88 watts, 20% efficiency
- Battery – 3.7V, 2200 mAH
- LED lifespan – 50,000 hours
- Brightness – 35Im
- Operational hours – up to 12 hours in summer and 5 hours in winter (after a full charge)
Reasons to buy this product
- Easy installation: With no wiring required, this product can be placed at any location of choice, greeting guests with a warm and welcoming glow.
- Auto on/off from dusk to dawn: Solar lights with a daylight sensor charge their batteries during the day, turning on at dusk and switching off at dawn.
- Long working time: Built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery (2200mAh) provides 12 hours of light during the summer and 5 hours in the winter at full charge. On a sunny day, the charging time is 8 hours.
- Nice flames design: LEDs in the light cast a safe, soft, mood-enhancing glow, making it a safe alternative to genuine “flames.” The updated solar torches have a height of 42.9 inches.
- Eternal flames are weatherproof: IP65 Waterproof and Durable, allowing them to withstand different weather patterns year round.
Drawback(s):
- It might be too tall for your space
- If damaged, the product is not easily repairable.
3. AMIR Upgraded Solar Powered String Lights
This is a copper lighting product with 100 Super Bright LED bulbs hanging on a 33-foot high-quality copper cable to illuminate in every direction with a continuous 360-degree viewing angle.
Ideal for use in gardens, patios, gates, yards, weddings and event spaces.
Technical product description
- Brand- AMIR
- Item weight- 9.6 ounces
- Style- solar spring light
- Dimension- height: 3.9inches, length: 3.3inches, width: 5.3inches.
- Shape- bulb-shaped
- Power source- solar (battery powered in some cases)
- Voltage- 1.2V
- Special feature- water resistant
- Batteries- 1 Lithium-ion batteries required. (included)
Reasons to buy this product
- High quality and flexible copper wire – Made of thin and flexible copper wire, coiled with a simple bobbin winder s, the string lights are easy to store and easy to re-install. It’s an eco-friendly product with a high energy conversion rate, and is long-lasting and safe to use.
- Water resistance – Both the string lights and the solar panel are waterproof to IP65 standards, making them convenient to use in the rain.
- Easy to shape – Flexible Copper wiring can be easily molded or wrapped around tree trunks or gazebos, and fades in the dark, leaving only the dazzling lights effect.
Drawback(s)
- Multiple light strings can not be connected together
4. Ring Solar Steplight
This product is a solar-powered step light that illuminates at 50 lumens of light when motion is detected.
Its kit includes a Ring Bridge that enables smart features for Ring Smart Light and it’s solar powered, to benefit from direct sunlight to recharge and store power.
Technical description
- Lighting – Up to 50 lumens (adjustable), 3500K Color Temperature
- Dimension – 3.43 in x 2.19 in x 4.0 in (87.0mm x 55.5mm x 101.5mm)
- Motion detection – Adjustable motion detection. Up to 120° field of view, detection angle dependent on distance from unit. 15’ detection range.
- Special feature – it has a ring bridge
Reasons to buy this product
- Ring of security – you can connect your Ring Smart Lights to your other compatible Ring devices using the Ring app to control and stay up to date to your home settings.
- Works with Alexa – You can connect your Ring Bridge to Alexa-enabled devices to turn the lights on and off through voice commands.
- Easy setup, involving 3 easy steps: Connect to the Ring Bridge, use the Ring app to configure your settings and position at your desired spot.
Drawback(s)
- It is expensive
Brightech Ambience Pro Waterproof, Solar-powered Outdoor Light
This is a solar powered lighting product by Brightech, with portable and rechargeable batteries and made from rubber materials.
Technical description
- Size – 27ft
- Style – Bistro
- Voltage – 120
- Wattage- 1 watt
- Bulb Type – LED
- Battery cell type – lithium-ion
- Shape – S14
Reasons to buy this product
- It is easy to install and use – The lights can be hung in canopied designs or in straight runs throughout the garden, and has a relatively simple setup. Attach and fix the panel, using either the clamp or stake (both are included), at the location where it will receive the most sunlight.
- Durable battery – it has a long-lasting battery
- Creates nice ambience
Drawback(s)
- Batteries cannot be replaced
Signature Garden 6 Pack Solar Garden Lights
this product can cover your garden with LED bulbs, each producing a bright, clean light. Place them along your route for a great combination of beauty and safety. It is a solar powered light source with a stainless steel body.
Technical description
Voltage – 1.2V
Dimension – 15 x 10.75 x 4.9 inches
ASIN – B01JBU4QZE
Manufacturer – Signature Garden
Reasons to buy this product
- It beautifies the garden – Enhance the appearance of your garden, paths and landscape with a custom design using the Signature Garden LED lights to keep your garden, pathways, and flower beds attractive for years to come.
- It is weather resistant – this product is protected against rain, snow, frost and sleet. It has one of the longest-lasting lives of any LED lamp on the market because of its high-quality stainless-steel structure, both highly durable and well-sealed.
- Lights recharge automatically during the day
Drawback(s)
- The product is not equipped with motion sensors
- Urpower 2-in-1 waterproof 4 LED solar spotlight – this is a solar powered source light with a dual light mode: a high-light output mode (6 hours) and a low-light output mode (10 hours). URPOWER solar outdoor lights have a large solar panel that allows them to charge their 2200mAh battery quickly. The 4 LED solar spot lights can produce up to 200 lumens of lighting for 6-10 hours after a full charge.
Technical description
Material – Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Waterproof level: IP64
Charging time:4-5 hours
Working time: about 6 – 9 hours
Rechargeable Battery: 3.7V 2200mAh
Dimensions: 29cm by 9.5cm by 34cm
Reasons to buy this product
- Separately adjustable light and solar panel – The solar spotlights may be rotated up to 90 degrees to accommodate any outdoor area. For optimal sun exposure, the solar panel can be rotated up to 180 degrees.
- Two-in-one option – Stakes can be used to anchor the product in the ground, or screws can be used to fix it on the wall. These solar landscape lights can be used to accent trees, statues, signposts, and pools, but also to illuminate your front entrance, driveway, and pathways.
- Dual brightness setting
Drawback(s)
- It can be quite bulky
- LITOM 12 LEDs Solar Landscape Spotlights – Compared to other brands offering fixtures containing 4-6 LED lights, the LITOM/MPOW solar landscape light has 12 brilliant LED lights for significantly brighter illumination and a broader 120 degree lighting angle.
Technical description
Material – plastic
Switch type – light switch
Light direction – downlight
Reasons to buy this product
- It has two light modes
- Extremely high brightness
Drawback(s)
- The product fixation and placement is not very flexible
- Aootek 182 Led Solar outdoor motion sensor lights – This is a LED light product manufactured by Aootek.
Technical description
Shape – oval
Style – Art Deco
Power source – battery powered
Volt – 3.7V
Wattage – 3.7watts/hour
Battery type – lithium ion
Reasons to buy this product
- It has three operational modes: a basic one for security, one for permanent operation throughout the night and the third is smart brightness control.
- Sensitive PIR Motion Inductor
- Ultra-Bright Lights
Drawback(s)
- Although it’s highly functional and very practical, the overall look is not very attractive.
- Ring solar pathlight – If you already own other Ring products, such as the Ring Video Doorbell, the Ring Solar Pathlight is the best solar garden option for you. These lights can illuminate your walkway from the bottom up, offer adjustable brightness levels, interact with Alexa, and can give you notifications when they detect movement.
Technical description
Light source – solar powered
Rated brightness: 80 lumens Estimated
Battery life: Varies depending on use
Weather resistance rating: IP66
Size: 16.8 in x 4.33 in x 4.33 in
Reasons to buy this product
1. Built-in motion detector
2. Adjustable brightness
3. Integrates with other Ring products
Drawbacks
- Expensive
- Needs bridge to connect to Wi-Fi
5 Things to Look For When Buying Best Garden Solar Lights
- Consider the operating time
- Examine the type of light bulb used by the solar light.
- Check to see if the battery requires full sunlight to charge.
- Determine what type of solar light is required for your application: decorative accent, path, or task.
- Cost of light
FAQs
What is garden lighting?
Garden lighting, commonly known as landscape lighting, is the process of using artificial lighting systems to illuminate gardens and other outdoor spaces, and the lights used in this process are known as garden lights.
Many people use garden lights to ensure visibility and safety in open spaces, while others use them for decorative purposes, sports and commercial events, and even for accessibility. There are vast ranges of garden and outdoor lights that can meet the different categories.
What are the benefits of installing solar garden lights?
Although plants are typically the central and aesthetic features within a garden, well-planned and cleverly installed garden lights can greatly highlight the plants and the outdoor space in general.
Investing in proper outdoor luminaries can add a lot of value to your property or land, as buyers consider well-lit outdoor spaces (especially when coupled with a solar option) as a significant and decisive element in their decision on the property.
Moreover, outdoor lights can contribute to decreasing the probability of accidents and injuries. Once risky areas of the house, such as stairs or poolside areas, are brightly lit by garden lights, accident rates tend to decrease. Additionally, garden lights can minimize the danger of thefts and burglaries.
Are all garden lights eco-friendly?
You need to assess the energy source of your garden lights to answer this question. Simply put, if you opted for solar-powered garden lights, then you’re more eco-friendly.
Compared to other counterparts, solar garden lights (or landscape lights) are eco-friendly, economical, and add great aesthetic value to your garden, illuminating the space while protecting the environment.
Are garden lights worth the cost?
Understandably, the high cost of solar garden lights might pose a problem for many consumers who wonder if they will get proper value for their investment.
The direct answer is yes! These garden lights will reduce power consumption, improve your mood, increase the resale value of your property. More indirect benefits include huge savings on dark-spot damages, injury-related hospital bills and losses due to theft, all easily avoided with a good lighting system.
What are some disadvantages related to the use of solar garden lights?
You may argue that if a garden light uses solar energy as its source, then it has almost no associated downsides. Sadly, that’s not true. Using these light fixtures excessively or in an unorganized or misdirected way can lead to huge amounts of light pollution.
In fact, it can even lead to health-related altercations and disruptions in ecosystems. So, it would be best to use solar-powered garden lights judiciously.
Are you looking for a new dimmer and find it difficult to select the most appropriate dimmer for your switch? Or even completely in the dark about dimmers and their compatibility?
This article will serve as your personal guide to highlight all the important features of dimmers, what to look for and how to select a dimmer for your specific use. But first, we introduce what a dimmer is
What is a dimmer?
Dimmers are quite common but may be unrecognizable to the unfamiliar eye.
If you closely observe your lamp holder or light fixture at home, you will notice that there is a device connected to it that allows you to control the brightness of your bulb: this is the dimmer.
A dimmer gives you the flexibility and capability to control the brightness of your space.
Different dimmer types have different features and operations, depending on the type of dimmer and bulb installed.
What is the purpose of the dimmer?
Dimmers help give your rooms and spaces specific lighting moods to match your exact preferences.
You can also use a dimmer, for example, to set a relaxed, soft tone to your dining room lighting, to give you a relaxed or romantic feeling over dinner.
Additionally, the bulbs installed in the light fixtures might not provide the lumen output desired for the room. A dimmer allows you to control and tune in to the exact setting desired.
Moreover, when operated properly, dimmers can introduce significant savings on bulb operation and great reductions in power consumption, effectively lowering the electricity bills.
Factors to consider when selecting a dimmer?
To ensure that your dimmer matches the intended purpose and can satisfy the end results, there are a few factors to look into before purchasing the dimmer.
Mainly, there are four factors to consider before selecting a dimmer:
- Dimmer types.
- Matching bulbs to dimmers.
- Matching dimmers to watts controlled
- The design or style of the dimmer control.
Now, let’s get into details.
Dimmer types
Dimmers are available in a number of types and designs and the specific dimmer type required needs to be selected carefully. Firstly, you need to access your light fixture and determine the number of switches that control it.
There are four (4) types of dimmers:
✅ The single pole dimmer: this type is designed for an electrical wiring where everything is controlled from just one switch.
✅ Three-way Dimmer: when you have more than one switch controlling the lights, this is the type to go for. This dimmer type has two (2) switches and only one dimmer.
✅ Multi-location dimmers: in a setting where lighting is controlled from multiple sources, you will need the multi-location dimmer. This dimmer type will allow full dimming control from multiple locations.
✅ Plug-in dimmer: dimmers are not just for your ceiling lights or bulbs. To use them with your bedside lamps, floor lamps or table lamps, use a plug-in type dimmer, as they are perfect for lights which plug directly into an outlet.
Matching bulbs to dimmers
Before making the purchase, careful consideration must be given to the bulbs this dimmer is set to operate.
The bulbs and the dimmer must be compatible and the bulb has to be a dimmable one.
Also, depending on the type of light bulb, the dimmer type will vary.
For example, if you use a halogen or an incandescent lighting system, then you would need an incandescent dimmer. Otherwise, you may not achieve your intended dimming scheme.
Alternatively, if you’re using an LED or compact fluorescent light, then you will need an LED dimmer. Any other dimmer used will give poor results with a continuous buzzing sound or might even fail to operate.
For low voltage lighting systems – electronic or magnetic – one must get a dimmer that matches the transformer that operates the bulbs. A magnetic dimmer is required for magnetic low voltage lights and an electronic dimmer is required for electronic low voltage ones.
Matching dimmers to watts controlled
All dimmers available on the market have an operational threshold, which is defined by the watt level they can power or control.
To properly select a dimmer, you need a thorough estimate of the watt value intended for the dimmer to control. It is essential to check the dimmer package and manual as it typically states its watts capacity.
Avoid overburdening the dimmer and only use it with the watts capacity it has been designed for.
The design or style of the dimmer control
Dimmer controllers are available in various styles, colors, and designs, and are manufactured to meet a wide range of customer preferences.
Options for dimmer controllers include slide dimmer, rocker dimmer, toggle dimmer, tap dimmer, rotary dimmer, and touch-sensitive dimmer control.
This guide has been planned to provide enough details and information to help you choose the proper dimmer to meet your space, intended settings and style.
Did you know that lighting in homes consumes between 8-15% of the average household electricity budget? Using energy-efficient and well-designed lighting can significantly help to reduce your energy and help you save money.
With a range of lighting options and terminology, it can be difficult to understand which light is right for your home or business. Keep reading to learn more about the difference between watts and lumens, so you can make the right LED light replacement decision.
Lumens Vs Watts – What Is The Difference?
Many people are often confused by the difference between lumens and watts. This can make choosing the right lighting for your home difficult.
It’s important to remember that more watts don’t always make a brighter bulb. To find the right brightness for your home or business, you should instead look at the number of lumens of the bulb.
Previously, people would choose a bulb with the most watts if they wanted a brighter bulb. However, light bulbs are now more energy-efficient. Energy-efficient bulbs mean they use fewer watts (but still produce the same amount of light, due to the lumens).
What is wattage?
When we used to buy incandescent bulbs, we did so based on wattage. If you wanted a brighter bulb, you would choose one with more watts. But watts are not the measure of brightness. Watts are the measure of energy consumption. This means how much electricity the bulb consumes to produce the light.
Bulbs with higher wattage use more power and thus cost more money to use. However, nowadays, there are a range of energy-efficient downlights that can produce the same amount of brightness (lumens) without using as many watts (energy consumed).
For example, a 40-watt incandescent bulb produces between 380 to 460 lumens and uses 40 watts of energy per hour. Nowadays, you can replace a 40-watt incandescent bulb with a 5 watt LED downlight, which will still produce the same amount of brightness. A simple LED lighting upgrade will ensure your home is lit up with the same amount of brightness as before, or brighter, but for less of the cost.
Although watts are no longer used for comparing brightness, they are still important when you’re considering how efficient light is.
For example, if you are looking at lights with the same amount of lumens (brightness) but they have different wattages then the one with the lowest wattage will be more energy efficient. The higher the lumen per watt (lm/W) the more efficient a light is (and the more money you’ll save).
What is Lumen?
Lumens are the brightness a light gives off. More lumens mean a brighter light, fewer lumens mean a dimmer light.
When you want to buy a light based on its brightness, you should always think about the number of lumens, instead of the watts. For example, a 5 watt LED downlight replacement is brighter than a 50-watt halogen light, because of the number of lumens. A 5-watt LED produces around 450-500 lumens.
If you have a standard 150-watt bulb in your living room that is giving out 2600 lumens, you swap it with a 25 watt LED upgrade. The power used by the new 25-watt LED light will be significantly reduced, but the light will still produce the same amount of light.
LED lighting technology can reduce energy consumption by up to 93% compared to incandescent or halogen lighting. This is because LED lights have a longer lifespan and use less power. LED lighting is not only more energy-efficient, but it’s also cheaper to run.
Comparing and Converting Lumens to Watts
The best way to compare lights is by looking at the packaging. Look at the number of lumens produced and the wattage.
If you’re looking for a light fitting that will produce the same amount of brightness as you currently have, then make sure you choose a light with the same amount of lumens. Then remember to check the wattage to compare how much energy it consumes.
Use these conversions to work out which bulb is right for you:
Traditional Incandescent to LED
A traditional incandescent 25-watt bulb will produce around 250 lumens. Whereas a LED bulb that produces 250 lumens will have between 3 and 4 watts. A traditional incandescent 50-watt bulb producing 500 lumens is the same as a LED bulb 5-8 watt bulb that produces 500 lumens.
Halogen to LED
Although halogen bulbs are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs, you still might want to think about getting your halogen lights replaced to reduce energy consumption and save you money. For example, changing 20 halogen downlights to LED downlights can save you up to $210 per annum off your energy bill.
A halogen 42-watt bulb that produces 800 lumens can be replaced with an 8-12 watt LED bulb. If you’re looking for the same brightness you get from an 1100 lumen halogen bulb (with a wattage of 52) then you can replace it with an 1100 lumens LED bulb (with a wattage of between 11-17).
Making little changes such as opting for LED lights instead of traditional incandescent or halogen lights, can make a big difference. Not only will your home or business become more energy-efficient, but you’ll also notice large energy savings too.
What are Lumens in lighting?
A lumen is a common term associated with lighting fixtures that classify lighting output – it is a key descriptive of all lighting types and is an important feature to understand. This article will clear all your questions regarding lumens and provide a thorough explanation of the term and its importance.
What Are Lumens?
Simply put, a lumen is an indication of the brightness of the light bulb. The lumen rating of a bulb determines the intensity and brightness of the light emitted. That is why it is recommended to always buy Lumens not Watts
There is a clear-cut difference between lumens and watts and your choice of light fixtures should be more focused on its lumen output rather than its wattage.
As a matter of fact, the wattage of the fixture is only reflective of the amount of energy required to power the light, whereas the lumen output tells how bright your bulb will shine. The higher the lumen value, the brighter the bulb will shine.
Choosing high wattage light fixtures will not contribute to a proper distribution or correct light output and will eventually increase your energy bill and lead to a larger electricity bill.
Lumen in conventional lights versus LED lights
Now let’s look at conventional lights and LED lights and compare the lumen output of each.
When comparing the brightness of a conventional light bulb with that of an LED bulb, you should only look at the lumen output, as it is the only factor to determine the brightness of the bulb.
However, for the same lumen level, LED bulbs are capable of achieving the lumen output at much lower wattage consumption ratings. For example, to give a lumen output of 800 lumens, an LED light of 11 to 12 watts is needed, however, it will require a conventional light with as high as 60 watts to provide the same amount of lumen output.
This difference translates into much higher energy consumption for the same light effect in the case of conventional lights and effectively higher electricity bills. Whereas with LED lights the energy consumption is much less with great cost savings.
What Is A Lumen Chart?
The shown chart approximates the lumen output lumen per watt value and gives an idea about the brightness of a light. This can portray the brightness of a 200-lumen bulb, what the brightness of a 1000-lumen bulb will be, as well as the value of brightness of a 5000-lumen bulb.
A lumen chart can give a very clear indication of the bulb being considered and indicates how many lumens are required to achieve the level of brightness desired.
How to choose a bulb based on its lumen output
You’re aiming for a specific light bulb but are unsure of the lumen output to select for your space? Below are a few pointers to follow. The first factor is the location of the bulb. The size of the particular room or space is a decisive figure to determine the respective lumen output.
For example, the lumen output required to illuminate a 20 square meter room will differ from the output needed to illuminate a 70 square meter room. Location and the area of the location are the initial key indicators.
The second factor is the number of sockets that have been installed. Are you buying just one bulb or multiple bulbs for the same space?
In general, you will have to rely on a standard lumen chart. The chart will provide the necessary information on how much brightness a specific lumen output will provide. The chart will also guide you on lumen to watt conversion.
The bulb typically displays the lumen information on the packaging and can also serve as a guide to selecting the right bulb.
How many lumens do I need?
How much brightness do you desire? The value of lumen you are looking for is determined by the amount of brightness you intend for the area. The higher the lumen output, the brighter the bulb will shine.
Another consideration is the location of the bulb within the space, is it ceiling mounted, wall fixed or table-mounted? All the different location and installation options will necessitate a varied lumen output level.
This is typically a personal choice to match the function of the area, however, it’s always advisable to consult the lumen chart to help in the decision on the exact lumen output.
To calculate lumens per watt, the wattage of the fixture and its lumen output needs to be determined, and effectively the lumen efficacy can be calculated. The lumen efficacy is a measure of how effective a light source is in converting its consumed watts into lumens.
LEDs have a lumen efficacy 4 times higher than conventional bulbs and that’s why they can produce bright light levels at low wattages.
Why are LED lights measured in Lumen?
With traditional light sources before the development of LED lights, the only measure used to compare light fixtures was the energy consumed. There were no methods to determine the brightness expected from a light source. However, with greater emphasis on lighting for homes and businesses, this needed to change.
Lumen output is a factory tested and guaranteed value that can determine the precise brightness level each light fixture is expected to produce. That is why it has been widely adopted in the design of LED lights, to determine how bright the bulb will shine
Why is there so much confusion between lumen and watts?
Although the two concepts are very different, and the watt value and lumen value indicate different features of the light source, consumers are generally used to watt levels for their everyday appliances and devices and tend to classify the brightness of light fixtures according to their watt levels only.
It is sometimes counterintuitive for many that a bulb with a low wattage value can shine more brightly than an alternative with a wattage 5 times higher.
However, it is worthy to note that lumen output and lumen values have become more widely assessed and considered, with manufacturers placing more attention and promoting light fixtures based on these features and their important association with the brightness of lights.
Save Money and Energy With a LED Light Replacement
Now that you understand what a watt is and what a lumen is, you should be able to find the right LED light replacement. Remember that wattage is all about energy consumption, as opposed to brightness. If you want a bright light, you need to find one with higher lumens.
Get in touch with our friendly team now to discuss your LED needs or to see if your home and/or business is eligible for a subsidised LED lighting upgrade.