What to look out for when choosing lighting for yourself or your clients. 

Did you know that not all lighting is the same? Of course you did! 
Most Lamps & Luminaires are manufactured or built fit-for-purpose; so, are you using the lighting within it’s purpose, or are you creatively extending it’s abilities?  
How can this affect the outcome? 

Here is a short list of 4 things we have compiled to look out for as you choose your lighting: 

Lighting Application:  

Your lighting purchase will largely depend on where you are installing it and for what purpose. 
What about the weather, will that affect your choice? (Check out our handy resource on IP (Ingress Protection) Ratings. Maybe vandalism is a concern? Is aesthetics important or are you looking for a light that is simply functional? Do you need it for task lighting or general ambience? 

Consider your base type (EG. ES, BS, G9 etc. (check out our upcoming blog on base types)), colour temperature (EG. Warm white, Cool White, Natural White, Daylight, RGB etc. [check out our blog on the best colour temperature for your application]). Would it be beneficial if it were colour switchable? This is handy if you are someone that is likely to change your mind or need distinct colour temperatures for different areas and are still wanting to keep the same aesthetic by using the one fitting.  

Does it need to be able to render colours well? If so, you may wish to consider a lamp or luminaire with a high CRI (Colour Rendering Index) that is above 90. This is ideal for industries including Galleries, Museums, Textiles, Furnishing, Hairdressing, Medical & Dental where true colour reproduction is vital. 

Do you need a particular light output, or an industry specific luminaire?  
Some industries need specific lighting, EG. Hospitality, Farming, Casino’s & Gaming, Aged Care, Caravan Parks, Councils, Food Manufacturing, Galleries, Supermarkets or even Schools (check out our Industry Specific Catalogues here). 

The best way to consider your application is to think about where you are installing it & the effect you want from your lighting after you install it. To pick the right light for you, have a think about your individual needs. Alternatively, give your local lighting reseller a call for a brainstorm! 

Lighting Budget: 

Are you comparing apples with apples?  

You might be tempted to choose a cheaper alternative, however, make sure you compare all specifications [specs] & compliance certifications before making your purchase.  

Did you know that Lighting Products are manufactured for either residential or commercial use?  
If you use a residential product in a commercial application, chances are that it just won’t last the rated lifespan advertised or promised (and you might devoid any warranties if you ever need them!). This means you will have to re-invest later, potentially costing you a huge amount of time & money (and who has spare time or money!).  

Approved compliance certifications are great to look out for. These can give you peace of mind that you are getting what you pay for when researching the specs & claims that are stated on the packaging or spec sheet. Some common reports worth looking for on your lighting choices include LM70, LM80 & SAA Australian.

Fun facts:  

• Both LM79 & LM80 reports are conducted by an independent external company, not by the lighting manufacturers.  
• LM79 reports prove that the advertised specs are correct. The checks on a LM79 report include wattage, voltage, lumens, colour temperature, CRI (Colour Rendering Index) and cost Lighting Manufacturers and Suppliers like us around $800 USD per product.  
• LM80 reports measure lumen maintenance (life of the lamp) and confirm the quality of the product; including electrical testing. LM80 reports cost approximately $10,000 USD per product. 

So, whilst the budget is important – make sure you are getting long-term value for your money. 

Lighting Government Rebates: 

Some Governments offer rebates for specific lighting purchases. In these cases, it’s important to read all the fine print. We know this takes time and energy, but it could save you a heap of heartache and future follow up if you make sure it’s right beforehand. Be aware that no upfront charges can be a red flag with Government Rebates, so please, please, please, read that fine print.  

Rebates can be fantastic budgeting and application support but do that homework first.  

Lighting Supplier Credentials 

You really want to be dealing with a company & brand you know, trust & can rely on. Is your lighting supplier highly regarded with a legitimate reputation in the industry? Have they been in business long? 

Companies that have a history in the industry are still in it for a reason. They have built their solid reputation on great products and customer service. They are fueled with outstanding communication, follow-up, and the ability to promptly fix any issues that arise. Their team are well-educated and trained to support your lighting choices and will guide you through any challenges or queries you might have. They get to know your business and support you. 

That’s it! When choosing the lighting and luminaire for your needs, consider the Application – your needs, colours, industry and base types; Budget – cheaper isn’t always better, look for those reports; do your research if you are looking at Government Rebates; and know your Supplier their history and knowledge. Yes, this is research and time, but honestly, it will save you in the long run! You wouldn’t choose a backyard Doctor to take out your tonsils – you’d probably end up in the Hospital with an infection and Major Surgery. You want to do it properly with the right products and right supplier the first time.