Using Lighting Controls to Optimize Lighting Schedules
Are you tired of your light bill being high due to an unbalanced lighting schedule? If you are, using light controls will help you save energy and money in the long term.
In this blog, we will discuss the different types of lighting control systems and how each control will help you save energy and money.
Lighting Controls
Light controls are networks of devices that allow you to regulate the lighting levels within an area or space. These controls work best for scheduling on/off cycles, reducing lighting levels, and automating operation settings.
Controlling the lighting in a space is important for conserving energy and using energy only when it is useful. It also helps to extend the lifespan of the light fixture.
Some of the most common lighting controls are:
- Dimmers
- Motion Sensors
- Daylight Harvesting
- Time-Based Controls
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Dimmers
Dimmers are used for indoor applications to adjust the brightness level of lights. Most dimmers follow the 0-10v analog dimming system. Dimmers can work manually like Eaton Wirings Dimmer or with a motion sensor like Enerlites Dimmer Switch.
One of the benefits of using this type of lighting control is the energy savings. Dimming lights reduces the wattage and output of the light which saves energy. Additionally, multi-location controls lets you to control several lights at once.
Another benefit of dimming your lights is that they control the ambiance of your space. The customization allows you to change the lighting to your preferences. Dimming lights can also reduce eye strain for people with sensitive eyes.
Depending on your preference, you can choose between dimmer switches or remote-controlled dimmer.
Dimmer Switches
Dimmer switches are installed in the wall like regular light switches. The lights use a switch mechanism to control light levels. There are two types of dimmer light switches. These include leading-edge dimmers and trailing-edge dimmers.
Leading edge dimmers cut off the front edge of an alternating current's half cycle. This type of dimmer is most used to dim incandescent and halogen bulbs. However, leading edge dimmers are not useful for LEDs because they require a lot power to work.
Trailing edge dimmers, also known as phase-cutting dimmers, cut off the second half of an alternating current's half cycle. Trailing edge dimmers have become more popular because of their smoother dimming. They are also more suitable for LEDs.
Remote Dimmers
Remote dimmers differ from dimmer switches because as they use a remote control to dim the light while also changing the light’s color. Remote dimmers are great for large spacious areas like hallways and staircases where it's harder to access each light.
Browse HomElectrical’s website for dimmer switches today!
Motion Sensors
Motion sensors are also great to use when looking to optimize your lighting schedule. Motion sensors are sensors that automatically turn on lights when movement occurs. Use motion sensors for indoor and outdoor spaces.
Common motion sensors for indoor spaces are Occupancy sensors and Vacancy sensors.
Occupancy Sensor
Occupancy sensors control the lighting in a certain area based on the people in that area. A sensor works by automatically turning on when a person walks into the room. When the room is vacant, the lights will turn off to reduce energy consumption.
These sensors work best in places like offices and workspaces where the sensor can detect people’s movement. HomElectrical offers Eaton Wiring’s 1000W Occupancy Motion Sensor which works perfectly as a commercial lighting control.
Two of the main occupancy sensors to choose from are ultrasonic sensors and passive infrared sensors. Ultrasonic sensors detect sound. Infrared sensors are temperature sensors that detect heat and motion.
Vacancy Sensor
Vacancy sensors are like occupancy sensors in that they also automatically turn lights off when you leave the room. However, they differ in that you have to manually turn on the light when you walk into the room.
Vacancy sensors allow you to turn on lights only when needed and won't turn back on unless activated. After a set amount of time with no activity, the light sensor automatically turns off.
Use vacancy sensors if you constantly forget to turn lights off after leaving a room.
Daylight Harvesting
Daylight harvesting is a lighting control option that allows you to adjust your indoor lighting intensity. The lighting intensity depends on natural lights that come from the use of windows or skylights. The main goal of daylighting is to have a steady minimum light level.
To get the most out of daylighting, it is important to know the climate and design of the residential or commercial space. We recommend using daylight harvesting in locations with constant levels of daylight from windows and skylights.
Buildings and rooms with more windows and daylight save more energy because the lights stay slightly dimmed. Photosensors in rooms with less windows and less daylight will produce more light to provide adequate lighting.
Photosensor
While it is not a motion sensor, another important sensor to discuss are photosensors. You can use photosensors to help with daylighting to stop your lights from working during the daytime.
Photosensors work by detecting ambient light and adjusting the lighting to the needs of the space. Photosensors are mostly common in LED nightlights which helps them be effective and easy to use. The less ambient light detected, the brighter the photosensor light.
Time-Based Controls
Timers are one of the ways to control your lighting whether indoors or outdoors. Timers work by having pre-set intervals that automatically turn on and off your lights.
You can choose from manual or programmable digital timers. Manual timers control objects through electrical outlets. Programmable digital timers automate your lighting processes after proper setup.
HomElectrical offers a wide range of programmable digital timers to choose from. Our selections range from in-wall timers to outdoor timers.
Since the lights have set times to operate, they waste less energy by not running all the time. Reducing energy waste ultimately leads to lower energy costs overtime.
Scheduling
Use timers and smart light switches to define times of light use. You can schedule your lights to turn on during daytime and off during nighttime hours. Or, schedule your lights to operate only during the hours when someone occupies the home or office.
Scheduling is beneficial for personalizing the lighting experience for others. By using this lighting option, you will be able to configure the lighting to your needs. Scheduling keeps lighting behaviors consistent, meaning no surprises on your energy bill!
Scheduling is also important for energy reduction. Scheduling keeps lighting behaviors consistent, meaning no surprises on your energy bill! In commercial spaces, schedule light use around business hours for maximum benefit.
Install timer switches in homes, warehouses, offices, and shopping malls.
Conclusion
Hopefully learned about the different kinds of lighting options. Browse the HomElectrical website for these different lighting options today!
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