Bright Ideas Lighting Co.

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www.BrightIdeasLightingCo.com Boise lighting maintenance and energy efficient lighting upgrades

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Benefits of Induction lighting

The last few years have seen a definite move in the direction of energy efficient types of lighting, and while there are now many options on the market, there is one that is still little known, yet incredibly effective. While induction lighting may not be  as well known as LED lighting, it is far from being considered new technology as it was first introduced by Nikola Tesla back in the 1890’s. 

Induction lighting does have a higher upfront cost than traditional metal halide or high pressure sodium lights. However the extra cost is made up over the lifetime of the fixture with lower wattage and longer life of the induction fixture.   Induction lights are typically rated 60,000-100,000 hours.  

·         Induction lighting can basically run maintenance free during its lifespan, with most big name manufacturers offering a 10 year warranty bulb and induction driver.  Retrofit products generally have 5 year warranty.

·         Induction lighting is instant on, which is unlike HID lighting like metal halide and high pressure sodium.  Because the induction lights are instant on they can be used with occupancy sensors, and operate only when needed. 

·         Many places have made the switch to LED lights because they too have a longer life than their alternatives, but induction lighting will last as long or longer than LED and usually comes in at less than half the price.

·         As mentioned earlier, induction lighting has been around for over a century, and while many commercial outlets are just now learning about its benefits, it has been gradually gaining prominence as an effective lighting alternative for the last 15-20 years.

·         In commercial areas the quality of light is equally as important as efficiency, and that is also an area where induction lighting comes out on top. It will produce a crisp, clear CRI (color rendering index) of around 80, as opposed to the 60 for metal halide, and the 20 for HPS lighting.

·         The higher the kelvin temperature of a lamp, the cooler the light will be. Induction light come in various temperatures, but the most common fall in the 4100 to 5000 range, which produces a crisp white light.

·         For all lighting types lumen output drops as the light ages, but just how much depends on the type of lighting used. The output of HID’s can drop by over up to 30% of the initial lumens after just 6,000 hours of use, which falls well short of the lumen performance of induction lighting which can maintain up to 70%, even after 60,000 hours of use.

·         Induction lighting is eligible for Idaho Power incentive money when replacing traditional HID lighting.   These incentives for induction lighting can cover up to 50% of the total cost of a lighting upgrade.

Induction lighting can be used in many different areas for both interior and exterior lighting.   It is important to have induction lighting installed by a qualified licensed electrician.

If you are in the Boise Idaho area and considering an upgrade for your current metal halide or high pressure sodium lighting give Bright Ideas Lighting a call at 208-378-1889 or schedule a free lighting review

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Boise ceiling fan installation

Boise ceiling fan installation

It is not difficult to see why people would be interested in ceiling fan installation in Boise, Idaho. Ceiling fans add style and comfort to your home. 


The Benefits You Get From Having Your Own Ceiling Fan

It makes sense to have a ceiling fan installed in your Boise, Idaho area home, as it is a sensible and cost effective solution to an energy efficient home.

It helps in stirring up a breeze to cool off your home in summer, circulating the air and resulting in less run time on your air conditioner.  The circulating air can make the room feel between 5-10 degrees cooler.  In the winter months ceiling fans push the hot air down resulting in less time running the heater.   Ceiling fans add to resale value of your home and add comfort and style to any household.

What is involved in Doing it Yourself Ceiling Fans Installations

Ceiling fan installation can be challenging for the average homeowner. You need a lot of tools and materials to start with. The ceiling fan, mounting kit, swag kit, lock washers, support unit, 4 x 1 1/2 octagon electrical box, cable, outlet box, switch, box connectors, wire nuts, switch cover, bonding screw, neon test light, no 2 Phillips screwdriver, claw hammer, speed controller, pliers, compass saw, and so the list goes on.

That is not even mentioning what is all involved in the steps you have to follow to get it all installed.  Instructions can be long and difficult to understand, and some fans can weigh over 40 pounds.  Thinking of the safety aspects involved, it is it is better to get a licensed Idaho electrician called in to come and do what they do best.