​Fall has officially arrived! On November 4th we will turn our clocks back for Daylight Savings Time. Another chore everyone should add to that task – check the batteries in your smoke detectors.
 
Half of home fire deaths happen between 11:00 pm and 7:00 am when most people are sleeping. According to the US Fire Administration, it is recommended to have a smoke detector in each bedroom, outside of each sleeping area (such as hallways), and one on each floor, including the basement.
 
You should test your smoke alarms once a month and they should be replaced every 10 years. When testing your detector, just because the test button works, it doesn’t mean it is functioning as it should. It simply confirms that the battery and electronics are working properly. If you are unsure how old your detector is, it’s time to install a new one. Don’t rely on outdated or worn-out devices to protect your family. At this time, it’s also be a good idea to check your Carbon Monoxide detectors! The general lifespan for these devices is 5-7 years.
 
Lighting Supply carries a variety of different options when it comes to smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. You can choose a more traditional smoke detector like the Kidde i4618 Smoke Alarm. It’s easy to install and has user-friendly features. Or, you could go with a more modern option. Check out the Kidde 900-0102-02 that functions as a smoke and carbon monoxide detector. It also features a voice alarm that clearly lets you know what hazard has been detected.
 
Visit our website to see our full offering of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. For more information, give us a call at 877.231.2852 or leave a comment below. 

Do you have a broken or outdated glass shade you are looking to replace? Changing the glass shades on your fixtures may seem fairly straight-forward, however, there are a few important details to consider; shade dimensions and holder type.
 
How do I determine the size of my glass shade?
There are three measurements you should gather to find the correct glass shade for your fixture: fitter size, width and height.
 
First, measure the fitter size. What’s the fitter, you may ask? It is the lip which is inserted into the fixture’s shade holder to keep it in place. To get this dimension, measure the inner diameter of the shade holder. This number will be slightly smaller than the fitter size so it can sit inside the shade holder. The most common diameters for shade holders are 2 1/4", 3 1/4", 4", 6", 10" and 12".
 
Next, measure the width across the widest part of the shade, which may be the top, middle or bottom – depending on the shade type and style.
 
Last, measure the height from the base of the fitter lip to the bottom of the shade.

​What type of holder do I have?
Now that you’ve determined the dimensions of your glass shade, you’ll have to figure out if your shade holder is a fixture, also known as lip type, or straight type.

​Washtenaw County Road Commission recently worked with Lighting Supply to upgrade their intersection lighting to LED and the project results were exceptional.  The new LEDs save more than 60% of energy costs which is a utilities savings of about $10,500 per year. Including maintenance and product costs, this translates to $75,000 per year or about $480,000 over the life of the bulbs. That’s about a half a million dollars that can be reallocated to other road projects!
 
“Lighting Supply worked with us on trying to find the best product for our solution and provided the data that us engineers really thrive on and those numbers and charts really helped us understand how much better of a product we would get,” commented Jeff Young, a Washtenaw County Signal Operations Engineer.
 
Washtenaw County will not only save on energy, but they will also see dramatic savings in maintenance costs. The new LEDs will last about 11 years, compared to 2-3 years with the old technology – that’s over 1,900 bulb changes eliminated!
 
“If you’re thinking about holding off on a project because you don’t have current funding, my recommendation would be to get with Lighting Supply. They’ll run through the numbers, specifications, and different manufacturers and really narrow it down on your return on investment. That really brought a lot of light to me and this project,” Young added.
 
Interested in how a lighting upgrade can work for you? Check out the video below to hear more about this case study. For further information or to speak with a representative about upgrading your current lighting, give us a call at 877.231.2852 or email us here.

​Traditionally, we replace our light bulbs based upon wattage. As incandescent bulbs are being phased out, replacing them with CFL or LED bulbs has become trickier. We can no longer base our decisions on wattage, or the amount of energy needed to power a light bulb. Manufacturers are now labeling their products based on lumen output, or the amount of visible light a bulb emits. This is a more accurate way to compare brightness levels between lighting technologies.
 
Most people are familiar with the light output that a 60W or 100W incandescent bulb offers. We’ve become accustomed to thinking “the higher the wattage, the brighter the bulb”. However, an LED that uses 60 watts is in no way comparable to an incandescent bulb that uses 60 watts. We can no longer rely on comparing wattages and must change our way of thinking to “the higher the lumens, the brighter the bulb”.
 
Rule of thumb when comparing lumens:
Lumens allow you to buy the amount of light you want. You may have a wide variety of light levels in your home, based on the room or application. Below is a quick chart to help you find the perfect replacement bulb based on your brightness preference.
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​If you’re having difficulty finding the best option, our website offers a helpful tool when searching for bulb replacements based on lumens. Simply use the "Filter" option on the left-hand tool bar to narrow down your choices by selecting your preferred lumen output level.
 
Still a bit unsure? Contact our knowledgeable Customer Service team with any questions at 877.231.2852 or email here.

​Lighting a warehouse can become very daunting to building owners. It is a financial investment, requires maintenance and takes planning, yet, it is crucial. Warehouse lighting isn’t so much about décor as it is functionality and efficiency. In order to maintain a productive warehouse, it’s important to have the proper lighting systems in place. Since this space typically has few windows, high ceilings and shelving units, it’s important to consider all aspects when outlining your lighting layout – including lighting objective, fixture type, lamp type, color temperature and more.
 
First things first, what is your lighting objective?
 
It’s essential to understand what purpose each lighting fixture will serve and what is needed in different areas to accomplish your lighting goals. Three concepts to consider include your lighting layout, the energy and maintenance costs and how the lighting will play a role in the efficiency and safety of your employees.
 
LIGHTING LAYOUT
Whether new construction or remodel, it is imperative to have a good layout for your warehouse lighting system. Lighting is ideally done before setting up racking units and fixtures placed directly over shelving lose value and serve little purpose. Spacing of fixtures is also critical – positioned too close together and hot spots and/or glare are created; positioned too far apart and you’ll have dark areas.
 
ENERGY & MAINTENANCE COSTS
Unfortunately, when it comes to lighting your building, the warehouse is a must and is sometimes used 24 hours a day – becoming very costly. If you’re still using HID or fluorescent lamps, you are incurring unnecessary maintenance costs which include frequently replaced bulbs and ballasts and renting a lift to change hard to reach bulbs. Switching to LED lamps and installing motion sensors can decrease energy costs and maintenance fees. Don’t forget about the exterior of your warehouse – install photocells on your outdoor wallpacks and floodlights as well.
 
EFFICIENCY & SAFETY OF EMPLOYEES
Never skimp on the amount of lighting needed to effectively illuminate your space. If you have too little light, this can create safety concerns for your employees. This can also cause more employee mistakes. If you rely on staff to pull items from your warehouse, it can be the difference between them reading an “8” or a “3” on a box – resulting in returns and re-pulling the order. You also don’t want to have too much light in your warehouse, causing your employees to have to squint when looking up at the racks for items. One way to avoid glare is by using diffused shields and lenses on your fixtures.
 
What type of fixtures and lamps are going to help you accomplish your lighting objective?
 
FIXTURE TYPE
The most common fixture types in warehouses are high/low bays, vaportight and strip fixtures. Any time you are lighting an area that has a ceiling height of twenty-five feet or higher, choose a high bay fixture. For lower ceilings, low bays and strip fixtures are popular choices. Strip fixtures are ideal for large spaces that need high-quality light without a bulky fixture. If you are working in an area where moisture levels are high or hazardous chemical vapors are present, opt for a wet location rated or vaportight fixture.
 
LIGHTING CHOICE
There are three popular choices for warehouse lighting that each have their pros and cons: LED, Fluorescent and HID.
 
LED is the most versatile type to choose from with options that include lamps, complete fixtures and retrofits – making remodels quick and easy! Although perceived by many as having a high price point, LED has come down in price over the years and are more affordable than ever! Not only do they use less energy, they can also be paired with lighting controls to save you even more. LEDs have a long-life expectancy, some lasting up to 100,000 hours, and work great in colder temperatures. It’s important to note that LEDs can be negatively affected by high heat. On average, the life of LED lamps and fixtures begins to depreciate if used in higher temperatures - be sure to always check the specifications.
 
Fluorescent lamps are a great alternative for those on a tight budget, while remaining more energy efficient than HIDs. They offer a wide range of color temperatures from 2700K-6500K (warm white to daylight). Fluorescent lamps also come in different sizes, providing more options. Their downfall – they do not operate well in high heat or extreme cold which can have a negative impact on the life of the lamp. Also, if the lamps are in an area where they are frequently turned on and off, the life expectancy will depreciate. Fluorescent lamps typically have a life expectancy of 25,000 hours, whereas LED tubes have an average life of 50,000 hours.
 
HID, or High-Intensity Discharge, lamps have been around the longest and are a common choice for those on a budget since they have the lowest initial costs. However, they do not offer much variety when it comes to color temperature; only warm white or cool white. They also require a warm up time and cool down time after the lights have been turned off before they can be turned on again. Even though they have a lower initial cost, they have an average life of only 15,000 hours and will need to be changed often – including changing the ballasts which adds up.
 
COLOR TEMPERATURE
Choosing the color temperature of your lamp can make or break your warehouse lighting. The most popular choice for warehouse lighting is 4000K, or cool white. Cool white light reduces eye strain and improves concentration, thus providing a productive environment. This color temperature also makes your space appear cleaner and more professional.

​Next time you’re in the market to upgrade your warehouse lighting, remember these key factors when making decisions. Reach out to the pros here at Lighting Supply with any questions. As one of the most widely known and respected lighting distributors, we have all of the products and answers you need – and we’re always happy to help!
 
Contact us here or leave a comment below.

​Our customers asked, and we delivered – Lighting Supply now offers more product categories that support the needs of electricians. We are excited about the opportunity to carry products from the “Electrician’s Champion,” IDEAL Industries, including connectors, hand tools, power tool accessories, testers and much more! IDEAL has been serving electricians for over 100 years and with more than 6,000 tools and supplies in the IDEAL product line, they have everything the professionals who power our world will need.
 
IDEAL was founded in 1916 by J. Walter Becker where he started out in his mother’s kitchen! In 1929, they introduced their first wire connectors, which would go on to become a cornerstone of IDEAL Industries’ product line. According to IDEAL’s website, they contributed components used in the lunar landing module and made the journey to the moon! IDEAL wire strippers were specifically requested for the mission because of their reputation for quality and precision, even in the most extreme environments. Over the years, IDEAL has acquired many different companies while expanding their product line to include hand tools, power tools, datacom tools and measurement tools for the global communication market.
 
Visit lightingsupply.com to see over 2,500 products we now offer from the IDEAL line. Using a mobile device? Type “IDEAL” in the search box. For more information, email us here or leave a comment below!

​Lighting Supply understands as you spend more on lighting products you expect to save. With our volume discounts and special pricing, Lighting Supply will make sure our pricing puts you at a competitive advantage. We’ll help you save on all your lighting related purchases, including projects, bids and more!
 
Fill out this short form and a dedicated account manager will be in touch with you to answer any questions and assist you in finding the best products for your project

Since 1983, Lighting Supply has been a trusted source for all of your lighting needs. Traditionally, our core products have focused on lamps, ballasts, and fixtures. That has changed over the past year. We’ve been working diligently to expand our range of products to include electrical accessories, as well as many other product categories!
 
One of the newest brands added is Garvin – an electrical manufacturer that has been in business for 120 years. They are family-owned, and manufacture UL Listed electrical, low-voltage and lighting products. Garvin offers many exciting products that will make Lighting Supply more of a one-stop shop to our customer base – including junction boxes, brackets, mounts, fittings, work lights and much more!
 
The beginnings of this company have a pretty unique history. According to their website, in 1893, Thomas Edison unveiled his incandescent light bulb at the Columbian Exposition. That summer, Edison and a crew of several hundred men constructed a network of over 92,000 incandescent lamps that lit up the shores of Lake Michigan. Working with Thomas Edison that evening was a young Irish Immigrant named Samuel Suffrin Garvin! Shortly after, Sam Garvin & Company was founded and became known as Chicago’s premier electrical manufacturer.
 
Visit lightingsupply.com to see over 3,000 Garvin products we now offer! Using a mobile device? Type “Garvin” in the search box. For more information, give our Customer Service team a call at 877.231.2852 or email us here.

With the popularity of LED lighting on the rise, many building owners are looking for additional ways to save on energy costs. Adding lighting controls to a workplace increases energy efficiency and provides added peace of mind. According to the US Department of Energy, new codes require lighting controls as part of their new energy reduction programs. Let’s take a look at a few different sensors and how they work.
 
MOTION & OCCUPANCY
Motion sensors and occupancy sensors act in a comparable manner. They detect the presence of a person in the space and automatically turn the lights on using infrared waves, ultrasonic waves, microwaves or other technology. Motion and occupancy sensors also turn the lights off when no motion is detected – saving substantial amounts of energy. These sensors are great for common areas, hallways and offices.
 
VACANCY
Vacancy sensors operate similarly to motion and occupancy sensors. The only difference between the two types is with vacancy sensors the wall switch must be turned on manually when entering the room. After the switch has been turned on, the space is then monitored and turns off automatically when no motion has been detected for a set amount of time – making them ideal for storage rooms or single-occupant offices.
 
PASSIVE INFRARED
PIR, or Passive Infrared, sensors are best utilized for detecting major movement, such as an occupant walking through the space. The sensor detects movement of heat sources by measuring infrared radiation. Since this type of technology only detects motion in its direct view, it is not ideal for rooms with sectioned off areas like bathrooms with stalls or offices with cubicles. They are best placed in small, enclosed office spaces and conference rooms.
 
ULTRASONIC
Ultrasonic sensors are excellent for detecting minor motion in a space – such as an employee typing on their desktop keyboard. These use a similar technology to radar, working on the Doppler Shift Principle. Ultrasonic sensors will send high frequency sound waves into an area and will check for their reflected patterns. If the reflected pattern is continuously changing, it’s assumed that there are occupants and the lights will turn on and stay on. With the help of this principle, these sensors can also “see” around corners! Use ultrasonic sensors in bathrooms with multiple stalls and stairwells.
 
DUAL-TECHNOLOGY
Dual-Technology sensors combine the mechanics of both Ultrasonic and PIR sensors. They will not turn on until both technologies are triggered, allowing for less “false alarms”. Once the light is turned on, only one component needs to be engaged to keep the lights on. Dual technology options are preferred in office spaces with cubicles due to obstructions like partitions, furniture and filing cabinets.
 
DAYLIGHT HARVESTING
Daylight Harvesting sensors are designed to maintain a minimum recommended light level, using natural daylight to compensate for the difference of light needed. Preferred light levels will differ based on the needs of the space depending on the amount of natural light in the area. These sensors use a photocell to detect light levels which are then interpreted by a lighting control module. The lights will be turned off or dimmed to meet the preferred lighting levels. If the lights are not dimmable, they will remain on until the natural daylight can meet the required light level for the space. Use these sensors in an area with multiple large windows or skylights that help to illuminate the room.​

​Choosing the right sensors for your application can be tricky. Contact our knowledgeable Customer Service team with any questions you may have. Our representatives will help you find the right sensor for your application. Contact us here or leave a comment below.

​If you’re looking to add some style to your home décor with minimal effort and cost, start with updating your interior lighting. Lighting is a central aspect of your home’s look – setting the mood and tone. Choosing which style best suits each room can be a fun task to take on as what works for one room, may not necessarily work for another. Stay current with this list of 2018 home lighting trends.

​Vintage-Style Bulbs
One of the easiest updates you can make to your current lighting is to simply replace individual light bulbs with vintage-style Edison bulbs. These bulbs bring character to any environment and evoke a nostalgic, cozy vibe. Edison bulbs are not ideal for task lighting so use them in a room where you’ll want to relax or entertain guests. Try replacing your old incandescent or CFL bulbs with Edison bulbs in your family room, dining room or bedroom.

​Mix & Match
Another great way to stay on trend is with the mix and match approach. Use different shape bulbs, complimentary light fixtures and a consistent color palette for an eclectic and stylish look. This trend is best utilized above a kitchen island or dining room table. You could also use a pendant-style cluster of bulbs hanging in a corner of a room to replace a table or floor lamp.

​Clean, Modern Lines
This style piggybacks onto the minimalism movement that is holding steady. This trend is reflected by simple geometric shapes and clean lines – minimal, yet bold. And this includes orb lights. The smooth lines and openness of the fixture is very attractive and modern. It’s easy to overdo it so pay close attention to the size and number of fixtures in one area. You want to make a statement without overwhelming the space.

​Industrial-Style Fixtures
Industrial-style fixtures put an emphasis on metal, especially a black iron finish. There are two different takes on this trend – the traditional warehouse and rugged look and, more recently, a sleek alternative with fluid lines. Create a unique focal point above your kitchen work area or dining room table for an eye-catching topic of conversation. Many designers view this trend as a work of art, in addition to a light fixture.

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​Warm, Metal Fixtures
Copper and gold are the new silver when it comes to interior design. However, instead of outdated brassy and shiny golds, decorators are using more modern brushed and matte finishes. These fixtures bring warmth to a room and can be worked into almost any existing décor.

​Pops of Color
Painting a room is not always feasible for many homeowners. The easiest way to give a room a fresh look is to add pops of color. Pick a color from a piece of artwork on your walls to compliment and go from there. Change the base of your table lamps, add a colorful floor lamp or hang bold colored light fixtures.

​Lighting Supply now carries a wide array of residential and decorative fixtures from brands like Westinghouse and Nuvo. To stay on trend this year, contact our Customer Service team who will be happy to help with any questions you have. Give us a call at 877.231.2852 or leave a comment below.