What is lighting control?
At its simplest form, lighting control is turning on or off a lighting fixture.
Lighting's impact is undeniable
"Lighting is extremely important and easy to take for granted because
it's always just there," stated Chris Casson Madden, interior decorating
guru, in a recent article for HGTV. Its impact is undeniable, both in
terms of function and economics. Whether in a home or business, good lighting
is essential and expensive.
"It wasn't until college and I began studying photography did I gain the necessary respect for lighting and realize how it affects not only the look of a person or room, but how it can be used for full dramatic effect to create ambience, mood and mystery."
Two types of control
Since lighting is so important, controlling lighting should also be important.
Lighting control takes many forms but most fall into two categories—local
and whole building control. A light switch is a type of local lighting
control. An occupancy sensor that detects motion in a room is another
example. Additionally, most of us are also familiar with dusk or daylight
sensors and lighting timers.
We use the term 'lighting control' to describe a system-wide, centralized approach to using light resources. Instead of flipping switches one at a time, we use digital technology to control all lighting with a touch of a button. Lighting control is not a gadget. It is one of the fastest-growing technologies for homes and businesses. It helps to decrease energy waste and provides valuable convenience and security benefits.
Structural approach
With CentraLite products, programs can be saved to manage lighting at
different times of the day, special events or occasional occurrences.
Additionally, other devices, such as security systems, cameras, motorized
blinds control, can be integrated with our lighting systems.
Like the pros
Museums, theaters, and restaurants have traditionally used lighting to
influence the behavior of their patrons. Spotlights direct your attention.
Soft lighting relaxes. Bright lights energize. CentraLite allows you to
use programs in the same way lighting experts do but at a fraction of
the cost. Create lighting scenes for every day, special or seasonal events.
Showcase architectural features or special artifacts. Punch up curb appeal
by highlighting structural objects or ornamental landscaping. With CentraLite,
you can set the perfect accents for any day of the year.
Big savings
Not only can the benefits of a great lighting system be seen but the effects
can be felt in the wallet as well. According to the American Lighting
Association, household lighting accounts for 12-15% of our household utility
bill. Estimates for commercial lighting are even higher. In fact, lighting
is the biggest user of energy in American businesses. The Energy Conservation
Enhancement Project at LSU (Louisiana State University) further estimates
that 20% of all electricity produced in the United States is used for
lighting. Unfortunately, 50% of this energy is wasted by inefficient lighting
sources or careless consumers. With the steady rise in energy costs, most
homeowners would agree that it's fiscally savvy and environmentally responsible
to control usage.
Heating and cooling systems are typically use a tremendous amount of energy too. CentraLite systems can be configured to include thermostats and window blinds controls, ensuring optimum temperature settings, day or night, anytime of the year.
Further savings can also be realized by controlling the amount wattage used by light bulbs. By installing dimming devices, not only do you conserve electricity and save energy costs, but you extend the life of light bulbs too. This can be especially important when considering the inaccessibility of many lighting fixtures in both interior and exterior areas. Consider these statistics from the LSU study:
| Effect of Dimming
Incandescent Light Bulbs |
||
| Dimming the light this much: |
Saves electricity |
Extends bulb life |
| 10% |
10% |
2
times longer |
| 25% |
20% |
4
times longer |
| 50% |
40% |
20
times longer |
| 75% |
60% |
More
than 20 times longer |
Benefits
Perhaps the greatest benefits of a CentraLite lighting control system
are the safety and security features. Programmed lighting assures home
and business owners that lights are on when they're needed and turned
off when they're not. CentraLite’s keyless remote feature can be
programmed to turn on one or all fixtures, open garage doors, and trigger
security systems. Preprogrammed scenes can even turn lights on and off
randomly while you are away, discouraging intruders or vandals
The way of the future
At CentraLite, we agree with demographers and futurists on several important
trends. Businesses will have to be proactive in the management of energy
and the home will play an increasingly important role in the lives of
citizens. People are looking for features that add convenience, comfort,
style—and energy conservation. We've got the products that can make
these wishes a reality while enhancing the value of your home or business.
Lighting control is the perfect solution. Call CentraLite today about
integrating affordable lighting control into your plans.