Lighting Tech Tip: Take Control of Lighting

Today’s lighting controls are easier to install and commission than they used to be, and they are more effective for end users. This is a frequent message from the Network’s field team to trade allies, yet adoption of controls in energy efficient lighting projects continues to be slow. Why? In the past, frankly, controls were difficult to install. But over the last year, the control of LED sources has significantly improved, and the need to learn the technology is now.

Depending on the manufacturer, controls now come out of the box nearly ready to go. They can dim, task tune, sense occupancy, support daylight harvesting, and adjust easily to the changing lighting needs of a space and its occupants.

Understanding how these systems work is important for contractors to:

• Remain relevant—today’s lighting world is changing, and you need to be up to date on the new energy-saving technologies.
• Improve your proposals and project bids—the better you understand the technology, the more accurately you can estimate and sell a networked lighting controls project.
• Serve the needs of the customer—property owners and managers stay up to date on industry changes too. They rely on you to understand new solutions; if you can’t deliver, they’ll reach out to a more knowledgeable competitor.
• Help customers improve facility maintenance costs—we know that changing out legacy lighting decreases maintenance costs considerably. But don’t stop there. By adding networked lighting controls, you help your customer increase system life and further reduce maintenance cost over a longer period of time.

The upcoming Network workshop season features a hands-on session focused on the installation ease of networked lighting controls. You’ll watch a system pulled from the box, get connected, configured and go live —all in the space of a 90-minute class. Make this your year to understand and embrace the benefits of networked lighting controls and register for a workshop near you today.

For more lighting tips and best practices, search the Trade Ally Network website or contact your regional field specialist.