Lighting is often taken for granted… until issues arise. Whether it’s escalating energy bills, flickering lights, or mismatched color temperatures causing visual distress, these challenges can be more than just minor inconveniences. Read on to learn more about the top challenges with commercial lighting. There can be a tendency to put off fixing certain lighting annoyances because of the unknown, little time to research solutions, or the perception that there will be a disruption to the work day. Here are our recommended solutions that can be easily implemented.

Challenge: Energy Costs

Outdated lighting systems can be a huge contributor to high energy bills. Traditional lighting, such as incandescent and fluorescent bulbs, tend to consume excessive amounts of energy, leading to higher expenses for both residential and commercial users. Plus, the environmental impact of high energy consumption contributes to greater greenhouse gas emissions.

Solution

One of the most effective ways to combat high energy costs is to transition to LED. LEDs are known for their energy efficiency, consuming significantly less than traditional, older lighting technology. Not only will this reduce your electric bill, but also align with more environmentally conscious practices.

You can also consider integrating smart lighting systems, which can further optimize energy usage. These systems allow you to control lighting remotely, schedule on/off times, and adjust brightness levels, so you can tailor your lighting to meet your specific needs while saving money and energy.

Challenge: Flickering or Buzzing Lights

Flickering or buzzing commercial lighting can be a constant annoyance, affecting the functionality and comfort of a space. Buzzing is often associated with fluorescent lights as LEDs generally don’t produce such noise. While both fluorescent and LEDs can experience flickering, the advantage with LED lies in the ability to address the issue more promptly.

Solution

For the simplest solution, replacing your light bulbs with LEDs is usually the best answer. Check for loose bulbs and conduct an inspection to identify if and where other lamps might be flickering. Rectify any loose connections and note any patterns that might point to an electrical issue. You can also try testing a flickering lamp in a different location to help determine if the issue is with the lamp itself or the placement. Lastly, powering off your lighting and powering back on can sometimes resolve any imbalances in lighting.

For persistent buzzing, consider switching to LED.

Either way, your lighting specialist or electrician can help you diagnose the problem and recommend appropriate resolutions.

Challenge: Mismatched Color Temperatures

Mismatched color temperatures in lighting can create a disorienting and uncomfortable atmosphere and unappealing aesthetic. The clash of warm and cool tones can disturb the visual harmony of a space, impacting the overall experience, and the lack of cohesion in lighting can diminish the overall ambiance of a room or area.

Inadequate color rendering, which is a common issue with mismatched temperatures, can also lead to visual discomfort. It can also result in a lack of vibrancy in colors, diminishing the overall appeal of a space. This can be particularly problematic in settings where aesthetics is important.

Solution

First, be sure you understand the concept of color temperatures in commercial lighting. Different settings and activities can benefit from specific color temperatures, and choosing the right one helps achieve a positive lighting scheme.

You can also opt for field adjustable lighting fixtures, which provide the flexibility to adopt to different color temperature requirements.

Or you can replace the lamp or fixture entirely. However, while this may address the immediate issue, the long-term solution may involve upgrading the entire lighting system to ensure uniformity in color temperatures, especially when dealing with older fixtures that may no longer produce consistent light. Your local commercial lighting experts can help with this.

Challenge: Finding Replacements

As lighting technologies evolve, finding suitable replacements for outdated or malfunctioning fixtures can pose significant challenges. Issues include compatibility issues, discontinued products, and even the sheer diversity of available options. Sometimes, depending on the lighting solution, it can be impossible to find an exact replacement.

Solution

Thorough research into the specific requirements of your features is crucial when seeking replacements. Understand the technical specifications and dimensions and opt for reputable brands to increase the likelihood of finding quality replacements.

Additionally, engaging with lighting professionals can provide valuable insights into replacement options. They can give guidance on suitable alternatives, taking into consideration both functional and aesthetic factors. Taking photos of the actual fixture and the label with the product number and other details of the fixture helps tremendously to identify replacements. It’s best to schedule a commercial lighting consultation with a professional to determine your specific needs.

Challenge: Broken or Discolored Lenses

Over time, lenses on fixtures can become damaged or discolored. Fluorescent lights give off heat which can also contribute to a lenses color shift. This not only affects the output and quality of illumination but also presents an aesthetically unappealing appearance.

Solution

Regular cleaning and commercial lighting maintenance can extend the lifespan of lenses and prevent discoloration. Simply dusting and wiping the lens can go a long way. However, when lenses reach a point where cleaning and maintenance are no longer effective, when they are broken or discolored, consider replacement. And rather than investing time and effort in sourcing old lenses for outdated technology, upgrading to LED fixtures will offer improved durability and longevity compared to traditional lighting. Many LED fixtures are integrated without a need for lens replacement.

Challenge: Insufficient Lighting

Insufficient lighting can have far-reaching consequences, creating both discomfort and safety hazards. Dimly lit spaces also hinder productivity and contribute to an overall sense of unease, gloom, and unwelcome.

Solution

Addressing insufficient lighting typically involves strategically placing fixtures to maximize illumination. You can reposition existing fixtures or add supplementary lighting elements to key areas.

Enlist a lighting professional for comprehensive solutions tailored to your specific space. They can create a photometric drawing that takes into account the layout, dimensions, and lighting requirements of your space, ensuring optimal brightness.

Challenge: Uneven Lighting

Uneven lighting introduces shadows and disrupts the visual harmony of a space. This can be particularly problematic in areas where a balanced and consistent lighting level is essential. It also often leads to a glare, creating discomfort and visual disturbances. It can also make tasks more difficult to perform.

Solution

Careful consideration of fixture placement is important in achieving even lighting. Assess the positioning of fixtures to eliminate shadows and minimize glare. You can also incorporate diffusers or reflectors to help soften light, reduce harsh shadows, and promote a more uniform illumination.

Challenge: Hard to Reach Light Is Out

Outdoor lighting, such as parking lot fixtures, can pose challenges when it comes to maintenance and replacement. Similarly, wall packs mounted high on the sides of buildings, or indoor lighting such as in warehouses or gyms with high ceilings present additional challenges.

Solution

For hard-to-reach lighting fixtures, utilize rental equipment such as lifts or ladders. Alternatively, hire a professional and save yourself the headache of managing equipment and safety concerns. Establishing a routine maintenance schedule with professionals ensures those hard-to-reach fixtures are regularly inspected and serviced.

Importance of Regular Lighting Maintenance

Regular lighting maintenance can prevent small issues from escalating to more costly, long-term problems, which saves you both time and money. It not only enhances efficiency, but also contributes to a more appealing environment, crucial for both residential and commercial spaces.

Addressing issues promptly through regular maintenance reduces the need for extensive repairs or replacements. Plus, a well-maintained lighting system is inherently more energy efficient.

Contact Bay Lighting – Your Local Commercial Lighting Experts

For comprehensive commercial lighting solutions and expert guidance, contact Bay Lighting —your local experts in lighting. With a commitment to quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, Bay Lighting is your go-to partner for addressing lighting challenges, from energy efficiency upgrades to maintenance services. Contact Bay Lighting today to embark on your journey to premier lighting solutions.