"Lighting is extremely important and easy to take for granted because it's always just there," stated Chris Casson Madden, interior decorating guru, in a recent article for HGTV. Its impact is undeniable, both in terms of function and economics. Whether in a home or business, good lighting is essential and expensive.
Two types of control
Since lighting is so important, controlling lighting should also be important. Lighting control takes many forms but most fall into two categories—local and whole building control. A light switch is a type of local lighting control. An occupancy sensor that detects motion in a room is another example. Additionally, most of us are also familiar with dusk or daylight sensors and lighting timers.
We use the term 'lighting control' to describe a system-wide, centralized approach to using light resources. Instead of flipping switches one at a time, we use digital technology to control all lighting with a touch of a button. Lighting control is not a gadget. It is one of the fastest-growing technologies for homes and businesses. It helps to decrease energy waste and provides valuable convenience and security benefits.
Structural approach
With CentraLite products, programs can be saved to manage lighting at different times of the day, special events or occasional occurrences. Additionally, other devices, such as security systems, cameras, motorized blinds control, can be integrated with our lighting systems.
Like the pros
Museums, theaters, and restaurants have traditionally used lighting to influence the behavior of their patrons. Spotlights direct your attention. Soft lighting relaxes. Bright lights energize. CentraLite allows you to use programs in the same way lighting experts do but at a fraction of the cost. Create lighting scenes for every day, special or seasonal events. Showcase architectural features or special artifacts. Punch up curb appeal by highlighting structural objects or ornamental landscaping. With CentraLite, you can set the perfect accents for any day of the year.
Big savings
Not only can the benefits of a great lighting system be seen but the effects can be felt in the wallet as well. According to the American Lighting Association, household lighting accounts for 12-15% of our household utility bill. Estimates for commercial lighting are even higher. In fact, lighting is the biggest user of energy in American businesses. The Energy Conservation Enhancement Project at LSU (Louisiana State University) further estimates that 20% of all electricity produced in the United States is used for lighting. Unfortunately, 50% of this energy is wasted by inefficient lighting sources or careless consumers. With the steady rise in energy costs, most homeowners would agree that it's fiscally savvy and environmentally responsible to control usage.
Heating and cooling systems are typically use a tremendous amount of energy too. CentraLite systems can be configured to include thermostats and window blinds controls, ensuring optimum temperature settings, day or night, anytime of the year.
Further savings can also be realized by controlling the amount wattage used by light bulbs. By installing dimming devices, not only do you conserve electricity and save energy costs, but you extend the life of light bulbs too. This can be especially important when considering the inaccessibility of many lighting fixtures in both interior and exterior areas. Consider these statistics from the LSU study:
| Effect of Dimming Incandescent Light Bulbs |
| Dimming the light this much: | Saves electricity | Extends bulb life |
| 10% | 10% | 2 times longer |
| 25% | 20% | 4 times longer |
| 50% | 40% | 20 times longer |
| 75% | 60% | More than 20 times longer |
Benefits
Perhaps the greatest benefits of a CentraLite lighting control system are the safety and security features. Programmed lighting assures home and business owners that lights are on when they're needed and turned off when they're not. CentraLite's keyless remote feature can be programmed to turn on one or all fixtures, open garage doors, and trigger security systems. Preprogrammed scenes can even turn lights on and off randomly while you are away, discouraging intruders or vandals
The way of the future
At CentraLite, we agree with demographers and futurists on several important trends. Businesses will have to be proactive in the management of energy and the home will play an increasingly important role in the lives of citizens. People are looking for features that add convenience, comfort, style—and energy conservation. We've got the products that can make these wishes a reality while enhancing the value of your home or business. Lighting control is the perfect solution. Call CentraLite today about integrating affordable lighting control into your plans.
At its simplest form,
