​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.

​Williamston High School was looking for ways to save money and energy. Lighting Supply proposed upgrading the metal halide bulbs in the gymnasium to LED and the results were pretty remarkable. By replacing forty-six 400W metal halide bulbs with 75W LED bulbs, Williamston will save 17,480 watts – which translates to $52,000 over the lifetime of the lamps.

“We’re saving 70-80% on energy costs to operate this gym,” says George Hix, the Maintenance, Custodial and Transportation Director at Williamston Community Schools.
 
Many utility companies offer rebates for upgrading to efficient lighting. For Williamston High School, the rebate covered ALL of the material costs!
 
When asked if he’d be recommend working with Lighting Supply, Mr. Hix replied, “Absolutely, and I already have! It’s been a real pleasure working with our rep and the company. It’s nice – what we need, they have.”
 
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. ​
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First impressions are important, and safety is everything! Many building owners focus on creating an inviting environment once inside the building, however the parking lot is often neglected. If the light fixtures in your parking lot are buzzing, flickering or dimly lit, visitors to your establishment may feel less welcome and even unsafe.
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It’s time to give your parking lot a facelift from outdated and inefficient exterior lighting. The most effective way to accomplish this is by upgrading to LED. There is a long list of benefits in choosing LED parking lot lighting including minimal maintenance, lower energy costs, and higher light quality.​

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​Minimal Maintenance:
Many parking lots use High Intensity Discharge (HID) bulbs in their fixtures, including Metal Halide and High Pressure Sodium (HPS) bulbs. These bulbs have an average life of 15,000 hours. Their LED counterparts have an average life of 50,000 hours, with some LED fixtures lasting upwards of 100,000 hours! By the time you replace your LED light, you’ll have changed your HID bulbs at least 3-6 times, not including the pricey ballast replacements. You are not only going to save in labor costs, but also in product costs and overlooked fees such as renting a lift to reach the fixtures.
 
Lower Energy Costs:
Parking lots consume a huge amount of energy; especially if older technology is being utilized. Typically, these bulbs will consume between 250-400 watts per bulb. LED equivalents use a fraction of this energy – about 60-150 watts per bulb or fixture. As the upfront costs of converting to LED have continued to decrease, most will see a return on investment within two years.
 
Higher Light Quality:
Most Metal Halide and HPS bulbs give off an orange glow and tend to have a lower CRI, or color rendering index. The higher the CRI, the more accurate the color and clarity is perceived. LED lights provide a higher CRI rating than HIDs and have a brighter color temperature (typically 5000K or daylight). Not only will this lighting improvement make your building look more appealing, but it will also help your visitors see more clearly, making them feel safer and more welcome.
 
Lighting Supply offers many different solutions to upgrading your existing parking lot lighting to LED. Options range from converting to LED wall packs, shoeboxes and floodlight fixtures, or simply changing just the bulb to LED and eliminating the ballast. We are happy to help find the perfect solution for your upgrade! Give us a call at 877.231.2852 or leave us a comment below.

​America’s schools spend more than $8 billion each year on energy – more than the amount spent on textbooks and computers combined! According to Home Room, the official blog of the U.S. Department of Education, about twenty-six percent of electricity consumed by a typical school is for lighting alone. Lighting is a simple way to improve your school in many aspects. By upgrading your lighting to LED technologies, your school could save on energy, maintenance and material costs.
 
While saving on energy costs, you could be improving student performance and well-being at the same time. Most people believe that the older technology with “warm” yellow light will simulate the sun the best. However, LED bulbs on the other end of the spectrum with a bluer light have proven to help children stay more alert and productive throughout the day. As reported by Make Great Light, research has shown that students who are not exposed to full spectrum lighting early in the morning test poorer than students who have been exposed.
 
Check out our newest flyer for affordable ways to upgrade your school’s lighting today! The flyer features a case study from Williamston High School who recently upgraded their lighting with us and is anticipating a savings of $52,000 in energy costs over the life of the bulbs! For more information on which LED technology is right for you, give us a call at 877.231.2852 or leave a comment below.

It’s that time of year again – time to restore your outdoor space to its summertime beauty! You work hard to revive your yard and want your guests to enjoy themselves but once it starts to get dark, everyone makes their way inside. Don’t let the setting sun determine when your backyard bash must end by overlooking the importance of lighting! Keep the party outside by adding some creative lighting to your patio and yard with landscape, stringer and rope lighting.
 
Deck & Patio​

​Backyard & Garden Area

• Illuminate walkways with path lighting. This will make your guests feel more welcome when approaching your home.
• Highlight points of interest in your yard with bullet style floodlights or uplight fixtures. Make flagpoles, statues or fun lawn décor a focal point even when it’s dark out!
• Use rope lighting to outline your garden along the brickwork for a cool effect.

​Simple Solutions

• Simply replace your existing outdoor bulbs with Edison vintage-style bulbs. These bulbs add a cozy and relaxing element to any setting.
• Add some extra flair by using colored bulbs to coordinate with themes or holidays.
• Want to create a space to relax but don’t have a patio or deck? Anchor poles into outdoor vases with sand or cement and drape LED string lights from post to post.

​​In the market for for a landscape lighting system that’s simple and economical? Check out our Lite the Nite collection here!
 
As always, Lighting Supply is here to help with any questions you may have. Give us a call at 877.231.2852 or leave a comment below.