Light Bulb General Information, Lighting Design, Technologies 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Your Light Bulbs 30th June 2024 Dennis Leave a comment Energy-efficient and long-lasting, LED bulbs are versatile, eco-friendly, and offer directional lighting. According to research, LED lighting can save up to 80 percent of energy. This translates to huge sums of money in terms of utility bulls. Still more, LED bulbs can reduce the overall carbon footprint, a key step towards saving the environment. However, it’s important to choose wisely. Don’t make the following mistakes when replacing your LED bulbs. Ignoring Light Distribution Don’t ignore light distribution when replacing or upgrading your bulbs. It can affect your lighting system. This is because LEDs are directional (that’s how they are designed to produce light). Thus, you must consider specifications, such as beam angle, type of light distribution, etc. For instance, if you replace an A-shaped incandescent-based bulb (table lamp) with an energy-efficient LED lighting bulb, you may end up losing some downlight. Instead, consider replacing it with an A-shaped omnidirectional LED bulb. LEDs are directional. That’s why they are used as area and wall pack lighting. The area and the wall pack lighting use omnidirectional HID bulbs. As a result, a lot of emitted light is lost inside the lighting fixture. This light loss is referred to as “Lumen bounce”. Pro tip: Figure out the type of light distribution you are dealing with. For a wide circle, avoid type one and type two distribution types. Not Considering Wattage Output Don’t purchase your LED upgrades without comparing the lumens of your current bulb with the replacement. Of course, you should compare wattages. However, taking into account lumen output will help you understand how bright the LED lighting fixture will be. The only exception where you don’t need to compare Lumen output is when upgrading HID fixtures. This is because HID bulbs are omnidirectional while the LEDs are directional. Not Considering Color Temperature Kelvin is the SI unit for thermodynamic temperature or color appearance coming from a lighting fixture. That’s why you should match the color light when making the upgrade. For fluorescent bulbs, the color temperature is stamped on the tube’s side. This makes it easy to match the LED tube lighting replacement. On the other hand, there is no Kelvin color listed on incandescent and halogen lighting bulbs. Usually, the color temperature of all incandescent bulbs ranges between 2400 and 2700K. On the other hand, halogen bulbs have a color Kelvin of between 3,000 and 3,200K. When making a replacement, stick within these ranges for a uniform appearance. Using an Incompatible Dimmer Dimmers are excellent light control systems. However, dimmers are designed for different lighting bulbs. Using a standard dimmer will lead to flickering, buzzing, or flashing issues. That’s why you need a compatible dimmer switch. Check the dimmer’s product page and check for dimmer compatibility. Not Considering CRI Rating The color rendering index is an important aspect you should consider when purchasing your lighting replacements. Also referred to as CRI, the Color Rendering Index indicates how a lighting fixture accurately displays color in comparison with the midday sun. Higher CRI means that the color is more accurate and vice versa. You need higher CRI in certain applications, including art installations, jewelry counters as well as retail displays. While incandescent and halogen lighting fixtures come with high CRI (100), their LED counterparts have a lower CRI (90s). That’s why replacing an incandescent or halogen bulb with an LED bulb (of an average CRI rating) will result in a jaded color appearance. The Bottom-Line It’s time to switch to LED bulbs. LED lighting bulbs save you energy. They lower utility bills and save money. With LED lighting, you can lower your overall carbon footprint. Switch to LED lighting today. Use a professional electrician for excellent results. Consult first. Don’t make the above mistakes when replacing your light bulbs.
Lighting Design, Technologies The Bright Future: Innovations in Light Bulb Technology 22nd June 2024 Dennis Leave a comment The invention of the LED bulb by Thomas Edison changed the lighting industry. It opened doors for innovations. Since then, the technology has evolved, delivering some of the most advanced lighting solutions. For instance, the development of CFLs and LEDs has made it possible to save energy, illuminate spaces with allure, and optimize home security. People are becoming more conscious about carbon footprint and energy efficiency. Here are the top innovations in LED technology that will shape the future. Energy Efficiency Technologies The world is emphasizing energy efficiency. Energy consumers are being sensitized about the importance of purchasing energy-efficient lighting fixtures. On the other hand, manufacturers are beginning to phase out traditional incandescent bulbs, which consume more energy. That’s why LEDs are dominating the lighting industry. LEDs are energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and long-lasting. That’s not all, through LEDs, you can reduce your carbon footprint. Additionally, material science and nanotechnology advancements have made it possible to introduce energy-efficient solutions. This includes Organic LEDs (also known as OLEDs). According to experts, OLEDs are printed on flexible substrates, which enables innovative applications (such as in curved displays as well as wearables) The Integration of Smart Lighting with IoTThe Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming several industries, including lighting. Nowadays, IoT is making it possible to transform spaces into smart homes. Engineers can now integrate IoT with lighting solutions. This makes it possible to remotely control lights via voice commands and smartphones, which creates unprecedented convenience. IoT-powered systems can adjust light brightness and color temperature depending on user preferences, behaviors, and needs. You can also adjust the color. This enhances overall well-being, improves productivity, and fosters a positive mood. Additionally, IoT-integrated bulbs create lighting networks that can collaborate with smart devices, which leads to an interconnected, responsive ecosystem. Human-Centric LightsAccording to science, lighting affects human well-being. That’s why engineers are developing human-centric lighting technologies. Human-centric lighting is a concept that tries to mimic the patterns of natural lighting, which can support human cardiac rhythms, improve sleep quality, and enhance alertness. Through tunable white lighting, color temperature and intensity can now be dynamically adjusted. This concept can also be actualized by color-changing LEDs, which can accurately simulate natural daylight. Through this technology, lighting solutions can now be personalized and tailored depending on one’s needs as well as preferences. Li-FiLi-Fi, which stands for Light Fidelity, is a technology that leverages light to wirelessly transmit data. The transmission occurs at very fast speeds, which makes it ideal for modern homes. With this technology, LED light sources are modulated, making it possible to transmit data to devices with sensors. This creates a network communication that leverages the light. Li-Fi is likely to optimize internet access and data handling, particularly in places with limited Wi-Fi signals. According to experts, Li-Fi technology is more secure because light doesn’t pass through a wall. This improves data privacy. Additionally, light travels at high speed, making it the best choice for applications requiring internet speeds. Additional Technologies Additional technologies that will shape the lighting industry include: Energy Harvesting Solutions—capturing ambient energy like solar, kinetic, and thermal energy and using it to power essential lighting systems. Transparent & Smart Glass—OLED panes are used to turn windows into lighting spaces. The Bottom-Line The LED lighting technology is promising great things in the lighting industry. Innovative LED lighting technologies are making life easier and exciting. Technologies such as IoT, AI, and Human-centric lighting are shaping this thriving industry. Still more, emerging lighting technologies have made it easier to design smart homes. The above are the top technologies in LED lighting that will shape this industry.
Lighting Design, Technologies How to Save Money with Smart Lights: The Ultimate Guide 16th June 2024 Dennis Leave a comment Introduction Lighting technology is evolving. New developments are sprouting. Nowadays, there are so many ways of saving energy and money. The use of smart lights is one of the best ways of cutting down on energy consumption and lowering utility bills. Smart lights make your home more sustainable. Here is how you can save money with smart lights. Use Lighting Schedules Put your smart lights on schedules. With this feature, you minimize energy usage. A smart schedule ensures that these lights are never left on when you are away. Create regular programs for turning on and off your lights. This is especially important for outdoor lights, certain rooms, etc. Several apps on Google will help you create smart schedules. Pair With Smart Devices Invest in smart devices. Pair your bulbs with these devices and save energy. Think in terms of sensors, smartphones, and other hardware switches. These devices give you more control over your lighting, which can save you money. For instance, pairing sensors and automating lights give you more control over your lights. Through sensors, your lights will turn on and off automatically, minimizing energy wastage. You can purchase motion sensors from lighting companies like SLB. Additionally, color-changing lights can alert you whenever there is an issue at home. For instance, they can be programmed to turn blue when a leakage is detected or red in case of an intruder. Tracking Energy Usage Modern home devices, such as smart bulbs, are designed to track energy usage. You can use this review data to institute measures that can reduce energy usage or wastage. Use Smart Lights Bulbs, Smart Switches, Smart Plugs Smart lighting comes in three main options. Each of these options has its advantages and downsides. They include: Smart Bulbs: You can use actual bulbs to control your lights individually. This option is also ideal if you are looking to tweak the color of your lighting. Smart bulbs are available in different sizes and shapes. Smart Switches: You can control switch-operated light bulbs via smart switches. These smart switches work perfectly when controlling several light bulbs simultaneously. However, this control option doesn’t support applications that require color changing. Smart switches come with more features than their smart lights-based counterparts. However, they have fewer features than the actual bulbs. Smart Plugs: Another popular option is smart plugs. Smart plugs work by converting ordinary appliances into energy-efficient smart ones. They leverage Smartphone apps to control the power supply to a certain appliance. For instance, if you have a mood-based lighting fixture, you can incorporate a smart plug into your ordinary electrical outlet. It’s important to note that plugs come with the basic on/off control features. They also provide the energy-tracking features. Voice Activated Start Lights Connect your smart lights to a functional virtual assistant. This can be done either through a smartphone or smart speakers. When you issue voice commands, your smart lights listen. For instance, if you tell your lights to turn off, they will do it. There are several smart home assistants on the market. Popular ones include Google Assistant and Microsoft Cortana. You can also opt for Amazon Alexa and Apple Siri. Voice-activated lights take simple commands, such as turning off the lights, dimming, changing the color, etc. It’s important to note that certain assistants provide extra features, such as “Wake Up” to help you wake up in the morning. The Bottom-Line There are several ways of saving energy and money. The use of smart lights is one of them. Smart lights give you convenience. The use of voice-activated lights is exciting and convenient. Sensors also control how your light will operate. The above are the top ways of saving money with smart lights.
Light Bulb General Information, Lighting Design The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Light Bulbs for Every Room 10th June 2024 Dennis Leave a comment Lighting doesn’t just affect a space’s décor; it impacts the quality of your sleep, plays a role in brain power, and influences mood. That’s why you should light it appropriately. Proper lighting can affect your overall well-being, improve your productivity, and optimize your sleep quality. With so many lighting options on the market, it becomes challenging to select the right lighting. This guide will take you through the steps to choose the right lighting. Consider The Room’s Function Lighting function is categorized into three broad categories. They include: Task Lighting: Task lighting provides lights for specific tasks. Task lighting is used alongside ambient light to illuminate a space. Task lights help users to see and perform tasks such as sewing, reading, cooking, etc. Common task lighting options include desk lamps, under-cabinet lights, and many more. Ambient Lighting: This is the primary source of lighting in a space. It offers a space with overall illumination. It is used to set the overall tone in a space. Wall-mounted lighting fixtures, floor lamps, and recessed lights are examples of ambient lighting. Accent Lighting: Accent lighting highlights a specific area, such as a bookcase, art, special feature, etc. Usually, accent lighting works by creating shadows around the highlighted area. Creating the shadows can bring that dramatic effect, making a space look cozy and exciting. Examples of accent lighting include wall lights, landscape lights, etc. Before choosing a lighting fixture, consider how you would like to use it. According to experts, start with task lighting. Then move to task lighting. Accent lighting should come last. Pick the Right Light Bulbs Another important consideration is the type of bulbs you plan to use. Choose the right bulbs. Remember, the performance of different bulbs isn’t the same. Bulbs are categorized into 5 basic types. Incandescent: Incandescent bulbs are traditional lighting fixtures. They have been on the market for decades. They consume more energy. Countries are phasing them out and bringing in energy-efficient ones. LEDs: The Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are energy efficient (just like the CFLs). However, they last longer (three times that of CFLs). LEDs are preferred for task lighting. This is because LEDs can only emit hash, direct lighting. CFLs: CFLs, just like LEDs, are energy efficient. They also last long-lasting Halogen: Halogen bulbs emit bright, white light, just like natural daylight. These bulbs are ideal for providing task lighting. Research shows that halogen bulbs are more efficient than incandescent light, consuming 10 to 20% less energy. Consider Color Temperature Consider the color temperature of the lighting fixture. Years back, CFLs were not a great choice. This is because they emitted very blue, cool-based light. However, things have changed and these bulbs have developed. Nowadays, you can find warmer, yellowish tones in CFLs. Measure in Kelvin, color temperature determines the ambiance of a lighting fixture. Softer white or warm white (with a color temperature of 2700K) is suitable for bedroom spaces and living rooms. This is because they provide a warm, cozy feel. On the other hand, a color temperature of 4,100K emits bright white or cool white tones. These lighting fixtures are ideal for kitchen spaces, bathrooms, garages, etc. They give these spaces a whiter, energetic feel. Still more, daylight (with Kelvin rating ranging from 5000 to 6000 Kelvins), is usually preferred in spaces such as bathrooms, kitchen areas, and basements. These lighting sources are perfect for studying, handling intricate projects, and applying makeup. The Bottom-Line Don’t just light it. Do it in style. Light your home with the best lighting. Switch to LED lighting because it’s the best option. First, LED lighting is energy efficient. Second, it saves money. Third, it’s long-lasting. The list goes on. That’s why you should choose LED lighting. Choose wisely. The above tips and tricks will help you select the best lighting for your home.
Light Bulb General Information, Lighting Design The History Of Lighting: From Incandescent To LED And Beyond 6th June 2024 Dennis Leave a comment Lighting was invented in the 19th Century by Thomas Edison. Since then, lighting has undergone several evolutions and technological advancements. The lighting industry has experienced several milestones. Notable ones include the Light Emitting Diode Technology. The lighting industry has experienced some of the finest breakthroughs. For instance, the development of smart LED lighting technology has proven to be a game-changer in home automation. This guide will take you through the history of lighting, delving into the advancements, milestones achieved, misses registered, and the future of lighting. Keep reading. 1878 – Edison’s Idea The first practical lighting was developed in the 19th century by Thomas Edison. Determined to develop the first practical incandescent lamp, Thomas Edison embarked on a serious journey and applied for a patent on the 14th of October 1878. This was the beginning of a long journey that could later see the production of improved electric lights for commercial purposes. In 1880 his company, Edison Electric Light Company, began making its new products—Edison Light Bulbs. 1955 – Halogen Lights In the mid-20th century, new developments started taking center stage. Great minds at General Electric embarked on a journey to make major lighting breakthroughs. In 1955, Elmer Fridrich together with Emmet Wiley developed the first halogen lighting lamp. They applied some halogen amount to turn on the filament to burn and increase the temperature. 1962 – The Introduction OF LEDs The first LEDs were developed in 1962 by a General Electric scientist. He demonstrated that the first LED could produce visible light. However, this technology was limited because it could only produce invisible infrared light. The LED Revitalization As time went on, LEDs underwent tremendous developments. In the 1970s, scientists developed yellow and green LEDs. However, they produced a dim glow. In the 1980s, the lighting technology witnessed a major renaissance. The LED technology was improved and could now deliver ten times brightness. In 1996, white LEDs were produced by the Nichia Company. These were more powerful, energy-efficient, and brighter. The Future: Smart Technology In LED Lighting The lighting world is witnessing major technological advancements. New and smarter technologies are now making their way into this thriving industry. Smart lights, for instance, offer unprecedented convenience, and energy efficiency, and can be customized. The following are major technological developments in LED lighting that will shape the world: Human-Centric Lighting New designs in LED lighting make it possible to mimic the environment. These human-centric LED systems can regulate the human cardiac system and promote well-being. They leverage color temperature and IoT to make life better for human beings. Personalized Lighting Systems Modern LED systems come with customizable features, which can adjust brightness levels to suit a certain mood. With these features, you can control the ambiance of a space and achieve the desired atmosphere and relaxation. This boosts productivity and gives you optimal entertainment. Antimicrobial Lighting Modern lighting technology has made it possible to produce Antimicrobial LEDs. These lighting fixtures emit the right amount of light to illuminate spaces. Additionally, they harness the power of microbial killing to hinder the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, etc. They kill these disease-causing agents. The Bottom-Line The lighting world is one of the most thriving industries around the globe. Governments, organizations, and individuals are actively investing in the lighting industry. Since the invention of the first Edison bulb in the 19th century, lighting has undergone a lot of evolutional developments. The above guide contains the historical developments of lighting and what the future holds for this thriving industry.
