1.

7 Light Emitting Diode

1.8 Basic Lighting Energy Audit
1.9 Lighting Control Technology
1.10 Area Lighting System
1.11 Lighting System Maintenance

Submitted by

Rey T. Castano
Marc Jared V. Coo
Darlouis D. Dacula

Submitted to

Dr. Roger Balderas

September 15, 2023

i
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

. INTRODUCTION.........................................................................................................................1
About.............................................................................................................................. 1
Learning Objectives........................................................................................................ 1
1.7 LIGHT EMITTING DIODE.................................................................................................... 1
Working Principle................................................................................................2
Characteristics of LED..................................................................................................3
LED Function and Technological Operations...............................................................4
1.8. BASIC LIGHTNING ENERGY UNIT......................................................................................8
Why use energy audit? .................................................................................................. 8
Computation of Household Energy.............................................................................. 11
1.9. LIGHTING CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES............................................................................ 13
Definition...................................................................................................................... 13
Types of Lighting Control Technologies........................................................................ 13
Components of Lighting Control Technologies............................................................. 14
Application.................................................................................................................... 15
Technology Advancements........................................................................................... 17
1.10. AREA LIGHTING SYSTEM..............................................................................................18
Introduction..................................................................................................................18
Components................................................................................................................. 19
Application in Construction ......................................................................................... 20
Technology and Advancements ...................................................................................20
Usage and Benefits....................................................................................................... 20
What is an Area Lighting System? ................................................................................21
Types of Area Lighting System...................................................................................... 21

Benefits of Area Lighting Systems.................................................................................25

Considerations.............................................................................................................. 25
1.11. LIGHTING SYSTEM MAINTENANCE..............................................................................26
Why Need Maintenance?............................................................................................. 26
Procedures....................................................................................................................26
Operations Manuals..................................................................................................... 27
Reasons to Perform Regular Lighting Maintenance..................................................... 29
References ............................................................................................................................... 31

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Introduction

This module has a series of lessons covering topics pertaining lighting technology and
management in line with the program under Electrical Systems and Illumination Engineering
Design (EE 31). In the coming lessons, we will discuss the Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), Basic
Lighting Energy Audits, Lighting Control Technologies, Area Lighting Systems, and Lighting
System Maintenance, respectively.

Learning Objectives
 To provide a comprehensive understanding of LED technology, its applications, and its
benefits, enabling learners to make informed decisions when selecting and implementing
LED lighting solutions.
 To equip learners with the skills to conduct basic lighting energy audits, analyze energy
consumption, and identify opportunities for energy savings through lighting optimization.
 To provide an in-depth understanding of lighting control technologies, enabling learners
to design and implement efficient lighting control systems for various applications.
 To guide learners in designing effective area lighting systems that meet the unique
requirements of various environments, from outdoor spaces to indoor facilities.
 To provide insights into best practices for maintaining lighting systems, ensuring their
longevity, and minimizing downtime while adhering to energy and environmental
standards.

LIGHT EMITTING DIODE- 1.7

Light Emitting Diode (LED) is a semiconductor device that emits light when an electric current
flows through it. LEDs are widely used for various lighting applications, including indicators,
displays, signage, automotive lighting, and general illumination. They have gained popularity
in recent years due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and versatility.

Furthermore, a LED is essentially a PN junction that emits a monochromatic (single color)

light when operated in a forward biased direction. LEDs convert electrical into light energy.

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They are frequently used as “pilot” lights in electronic appliances to indicate whether the
circuit is closed or not.

Working Principle of LED

When sufficient voltage is applied to the

element across the leads of the LED, electrons
can move easily in only one direction across the
junction between p and n regions. P region is
dominated by positive electric charges while N
region is dominated by negative electric charges.

How does it work?

When the diode is forward biased, the minority electrons are sent from p → n while the
minority holes are sent from n → p. At the
junction boundary, the concentration of
minority carriers increases. The excess minority
carriers at the junction recombine with the
majority charge carriers.

The energy is released in the form of photons on

recombination. In standard diodes, the energy is
released in the form of heat. But in light-
emitting diodes, the energy is released in the
form of photons. We call this phenomenon
electroluminescence. Electroluminescence is an optical phenomenon, and electrical
phenomenon where a material emits light in response to an electric current passed through
it. As the forward voltage increases, the intensity of the light increases and reaches a
maximum.

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 Characteristics of LED

Here are some key characteristics and

features of LEDs:

Semiconductor Material: LEDs are

typically made from
semiconductor materials, such as
gallium arsenide (GaAs), gallium phosphide (GaP), or indium gallium nitride (InGaN).
The specific materials used determine the color of the emitted light.

Energy Efficiency: LEDs are highly energy-efficient and convert a significant portion of
electrical energy into visible light. They consume much less power compared to
traditional incandescent or fluorescent lights.

Long Lifespan: LEDs have a longer operational life than traditional lighting sources.
They can last tens of thousands of hours, reducing the need for frequent
replacements.

Compact Size: LEDs are small and compact, making them suitable for various
applications where space is limited.

Instant Lighting: LEDs provide instant illumination when powered on, unlike some
other lighting technologies that require warm-up time.

Directional Lighting: LEDs emit light in a specific direction, which can be advantageous
for applications where focused or directional lighting is required.

Color Range: LEDs are available in a wide range of colors, including red, green, blue,
yellow, and white. Color-changing LEDs are also common, allowing for dynamic
lighting effects.

Durability: LEDs are more rugged and durable compared to incandescent bulbs
because they are solid-state devices with no fragile filaments or glass bulbs.

Cooler Operation: LEDs produce very little heat compared to incandescent bulbs,
making them safer and more suitable for applications where heat generation is a
concern.

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 Dimmability: Many LEDs are dimmable, allowing users to adjust the brightness to
their preference. However, not all LEDs are compatible with all types of dimmer
switches, so compatibility should be checked.

LEDs have found widespread use in everyday lighting, including residential lighting,
streetlights, traffic signals, electronic displays (like those on digital clocks and TVs), and a
variety of specialized applications, such as indicator lights in electronics and automotive
lighting. Their versatility and energy efficiency continue to drive innovation in the lighting
industry, leading to improved performance and expanded applications.

LED function and technological operations

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) have a wide range of

applications across various industries due to their
energy efficiency, durability, and versatility. Here
are some common applications of LEDs:

General Lighting: LEDs are widely used for residential, commercial, and industrial
lighting. They come in various color temperatures and can be used for ambient
lighting, task lighting, and decorative lighting. LED lighting is known for its energy
efficiency and long lifespan.

Automotive Lighting: LEDs are used in

headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn
signals, and interior lighting in automobiles.
They offer brighter and more efficient
illumination compared to traditional halogen or incandescent bulbs.

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 Traffic Signals: LED traffic lights are
energy-efficient and have a longer
lifespan than traditional
incandescent bulbs. They provide
clear and visible signals in various
weather conditions.

Electronic Displays: LEDs are commonly used

in electronic displays, such as digital clocks,
calculators, and scoreboards. They are also
used in larger displays like LED billboards and
signs.

Backlighting: LEDs are used for

backlighting LCD screens in devices
like smartphones, tablets, computer
monitors, and televisions. They
provide uniform and energy-
efficient illumination.

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Indicator Lights: LEDs serve as indicator lights in
various electronic devices and appliances, signaling
power on/off, battery status, and operational modes.

Decorative Lighting: LEDs are used for decorative

purposes in homes, restaurants, hotels, and events.
They come in various colors and can be used to
create dynamic lighting effects.

Architectural Lighting: LEDs are used to illuminate

architectural features of buildings, bridges, and
landmarks. They can be programmed to create
stunning visual effects.

Emergency Lighting: LED emergency lights

and exit signs are essential for safety in
buildings. LEDs have a longer backup
battery life and remain lit during power
outages.

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 Flashlights and Torches: Many portable
flashlights and torches use LED technology
because of their brightness and energy
efficiency.

Medical Devices: LEDs are used in medical

devices for applications like phototherapy,
endoscopy, and dental curing lights.

Plant Growth Lighting: LED grow lights are used in

agriculture and indoor gardening to provide the specific
wavelengths of light needed for plant growth. They are
energy-efficient and can be customized for different plant
types and growth stages.

Aviation Lighting: LEDs are used in aviation for runway

and taxiway lighting, aircraft navigation lights, and
beacons due to their reliability and long life.

Artificial Intelligence and Data Transmission: In

research and development, LEDs are explored for

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applications in data transmission (Li-Fi) and as a source for optical sensors in AI and machine
vision systems.

1.8 BASIC LIGHTING ENERGY AUDIT

A lighting audit is the process of diving deep into your current lighting situation, making an
accurate assessment about what you have, drawing up the plans for what you want to have,
and building a roadmap for how to get there.

Consequently, it is also a systematic assessment of a facility's lighting system to evaluate its

energy efficiency, identify areas for improvement, and recommend strategies to reduce
energy consumption and associated costs. The primary goal of a lighting energy audit is to
optimize the lighting system to achieve energy savings while maintaining or improving
lighting quality and functionality.

Why use energy audit?

Energy audit is a technique developed to eradicate unnecessary usage of energy, control and
also streamline processes leading to energy efficiency. Energy audit and its impact on a daily
basis is precarious and hence should be prioritized. Energy Conservation over the years has
been a key in terms of saving excessive bills and building up unnecessary usage. Since the
world is not completely energy efficient yet, it should be a forefront process to ensure
optimum usage and saving wherever possible.

Trend of electricity spot market

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Inspection: A thorough examination of the existing lighting fixtures, bulbs, and control
systems in the building.

Energy-efficient lighting can significantly reduce energy consumption and utility costs.
By inspecting bulbs, you can identify outdated or inefficient lighting systems and
replace them with energy-efficient alternatives, such as LED bulbs. Further, Proper
lighting is crucial for the comfort and productivity of occupants in a building.
Inadequate lighting can cause eyestrain, headaches, and decreased work
performance. Regular inspections help maintain appropriate lighting levels. Also,
Energy-efficient lighting and control systems reduce a building's carbon footprint. By
ensuring these systems are in good working order, you contribute to environmental
sustainability and meet green building standards. Timely inspections can identify
issues before they become major problems, saving money on costly repairs or
replacements. Additionally, energy-efficient systems can result in long-term cost
savings on utility bills.

Data Collection: Gathering data on energy consumption, usage patterns, and lighting hours.

Gathering data on energy consumption, usage patterns, and lighting hours is a critical
step in achieving energy efficiency, cost savings, environmental sustainability, and
overall building performance. This data provides valuable insights that enable
informed decision-making and the implementation of strategies to optimize energy
usage and reduce operational costs.

Analysis: Evaluating the efficiency of the lighting system, including the type of bulbs, their
wattage, and their compatibility with energy-efficient technologies.

Analyzing the efficiency of a lighting system is a critical step in achieving energy

savings, cost reduction, environmental sustainability, and occupant well-being. It
allows building owners and managers to make informed decisions about lighting
upgrades, control systems, and maintenance practices to optimize both energy usage
and overall system performance.

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Recommendations: Providing suggestions for improvements, which may include replacing
outdated fixtures with energy-efficient LED lighting, implementing lighting controls (such as
occupancy sensors or timers), and optimizing lighting layouts.

Professional technicians can accurately diagnose appliance issues. Attempting DIY

repairs without a thorough understanding of the problem can lead to misdiagnosis,
resulting in unnecessary expenses or further damage to the appliance. seeking
professional assistance for house appliances is a prudent choice to ensure safety,
accuracy, efficiency, and long-term cost savings. While DIY repairs may be suitable for
minor issues, complex problems and major repairs should be entrusted to
experienced technicians who can deliver effective and reliable solutions.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Calculating potential energy and cost savings associated with
recommended changes.

After implementing energy-saving measures, a cost-benefit analysis serves as a

benchmark for measuring the success of the initiatives. It allows organizations to
assess whether the expected benefits were realized and adjust strategies accordingly.
Conducting a cost-benefit analysis in energy costs is a valuable practice for evaluating
the financial, environmental, and social impacts of energy-related decisions. It helps
organizations make sound choices, allocate resources effectively, and promote
sustainability while ensuring transparency and compliance with regulatory
requirements.

Compliance: Ensuring that the lighting system complies with relevant energy efficiency
standards and regulations. The goal of a lighting energy audit is to reduce energy
consumption, lower electricity bills, and enhance overall lighting quality while considering
environmental sustainability. Businesses and organizations often conduct these audits to
make informed decisions about upgrading their lighting systems.

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Application
Understanding your power consumption helps you budget more effectively. You can identify
areas where you might be using excessive energy and take steps to reduce consumption,
resulting in lower utility bills.
To calculate power consumption in your household, you typically need to monitor and record
the energy usage of various appliances and systems over a period of time. This can be done
using energy monitoring devices, smart meters, or utility bills.

Given that a certain person bought an energy saving bulb, we will compare the newly-bought
bulb vs the traditional one.

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Page 12 of 32
1.9-LIGHTING CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES

Lighting control technologies encompass various systems and devices designed to manage
and regulate lighting in buildings and outdoor spaces. These technologies offer improved
energy efficiency, user comfort, and aesthetics.

Incorporating lighting control technologies in construction projects offers numerous

advantages, ranging from energy efficiency to improved quality of life for occupants. These
technologies continue to evolve, driven by advancements in sensors, connectivity, and
automation, and are becoming increasingly integral to modern building design and operation.

Types of Lighting Control Technologies

a. Manual Controls

 Manual controls in lighting systems involve basic switches and dimmers that allow users
to control the lighting manually.

 Switches are used to turn lights on/off, while dimmers enable users to adjust the
brightness level.

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 These controls are straightforward and widely used in residential and commercial
buildings.

b. Automatic Controls

 Automatic lighting controls operate without direct human intervention.

 Examples include occupancy sensors, timers, and photocells.

 Occupancy sensors detect movement in a space and can automatically turn lights on or
off based on occupancy.

 Timers can be programmed to schedule lighting events, such as turning lights on and off
at specific times.

 Photocells, or daylight sensors, monitor natural light levels and adjust artificial lighting
accordingly.

c. Smart Lighting Systems

 Smart lighting systems are highly advanced and incorporate technology for intelligent
lighting control.

 These systems often include a combination of sensors, wireless communication, and

automation.

 Users can control smart lighting through smartphone apps, voice commands, or
centralized control systems.

 Smart lighting can adapt to user preferences, optimize energy use, and integrate with
other smart devices and platforms.

Components of Lighting Control Technologies

a. Lighting Fixtures

 Lighting fixtures are the actual light sources, including traditional incandescent bulbs,
fluorescent tubes, LED bulbs, or smart bulbs.

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 The choice of fixtures affects both the quality of light and energy efficiency.

b. Switches and Dimmers

 Switches and dimmers are user interfaces for controlling lights manually.

 Dimmers allow users to adjust the brightness of the lighting to create different
atmospheres or save energy.

c. Occupancy Sensors

 Occupancy sensors use various technologies (e.g., passive infrared, ultrasonic) to detect
the presence of people in a room.

 When no occupancy is detected, the sensor can trigger the lights to turn off
automatically, saving energy.

d. Daylight Sensors (Photocells)

 Daylight sensors measure the amount of natural light in a space and adjust artificial
lighting accordingly.

 They help maintain consistent lighting levels while minimizing energy consumption
during daylight hours.

e. Smart Controllers

 Smart controllers serve as the brain of a lighting system.

 They can connect to various sensors and devices, allowing for centralized control and
automation.

 Users can set schedules, create lighting scenes, and monitor energy usage through these
controllers.

Applications in Construction

a. Residential Buildings

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 In homes, lighting control technologies enhance convenience and energy savings.

 Dimmable LED lights and smart lighting systems are popular choices.

 Occupancy sensors in bathrooms and closets can ensure lights are only on when needed.

b. Commercial Buildings

 Offices, retail spaces, and hotels benefit from automated lighting control to reduce
operating costs and improve occupant comfort.

 Occupancy sensors and centralized lighting management systems are commonly used.

 Daylight harvesting optimizes energy use in areas with natural light.

c. Industrial Facilities

 Warehouses and factories use high bay lighting with motion sensors to ensure lighting is
activated when employees are present.

 These technologies improve safety and reduce energy waste in large industrial spaces.

d. Outdoor Lighting

 Streetlights, parking lot lights, and landscape lighting can be controlled using time
schedules, light sensors, or even integrated into smart city systems.

 Outdoor lighting control enhances safety and reduces energy consumption.

e. Healthcare Facilities

 Hospitals and clinics use lighting control systems to provide optimal lighting conditions in
patient rooms, operating theaters, and common areas.

 Tunable lighting systems can support patient recovery and staff productivity.

Technology Advancements

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a. Wireless Connectivity

➢ Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi enable

wireless communication between
lighting devices and control
systems.
➢ This simplifies installation and
allows for flexible placement of
sensors and switches.

b. IoT Integration

➢ Lighting systems can

connect to the Internet
of Things (IoT), enabling
data collection, analysis,
and automation.
➢ Data-driven insights can
lead to further energy
savings and predictive maintenance.

c. Energy Efficiency

➢ LED lighting, combined with advanced

controls, offers significant energy savings
compared to traditional lighting
technologies.
➢ Continuous advancements in LED
technology improve both efficiency and
color quality.

d. Human-Centric Lighting

➢ Human-centric lighting
systems mimic natural light

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 patterns to support well-being and productivity.
➢ They can adjust color temperature and brightness throughout the day to align
with human circadian rhythms.

Benefits of Lighting Control Technologies

a. Energy Savings

● One of the primary benefits is reduced energy consumption, leading to lower

utility bills and a smaller environmental footprint.

b. Increased Comfort

● Lighting control technologies can create customized lighting environments

that enhance comfort and productivity.

c. Extended Bulb Lifespan

● Dimming and controlled usage of lights can prolong the life of light bulbs,
reducing replacement costs.

d. Environmental Sustainability

● By optimizing energy use, these technologies contribute to a more

sustainable and eco-friendly building environment.

e. Enhanced Security

● Motion sensors and automated outdoor lighting can enhance security by

deterring intruders and providing visibility in dark areas.

AREA LIGHTING SYSTEM- 1.10

Area lighting systems play a crucial role in providing illumination for various outdoor
and indoor spaces, including construction sites, parking lots, sports arenas, industrial facilities,
and more. These systems are designed to distribute light evenly across a designated area,

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ensuring safety, security, and visibility. Here's a comprehensive overview of area lighting
systems, their applications in construction, technology, and usage.

Moreover, it is also essential for a wide range of applications, including construction,

where they enhance safety, security, and productivity. Advancements in technology, such as
LED lighting and smart controls, have made these systems more energy-efficient and cost-
effective while reducing their environmental impact. Proper design, compliance with
regulations, and routine maintenance are essential considerations for effective area lighting
solutions.

Definition and Components

● An area lighting system is a lighting solution designed to illuminate a specific area or

space uniformly.
● Key components of an area lighting system include light fixtures, lamps (typically
LEDs), power sources, controls, and mounting hardware.

Applications in Construction

a. Construction Sites

 Area lighting is essential at construction sites to ensure work can continue safely during
the night or in low-light conditions. Proper lighting enhances worker safety, minimizes
accidents, and supports productivity.

b. Temporary Installations

 Portable area lighting systems are used in construction for temporary lighting needs,
such as illuminating work zones, pathways, or storage areas.

c. Tunnel Construction

 In tunnel construction projects, area lighting is critical to maintain visibility for workers
and machinery.

An area lighting system refers to a designed arrangement

of lighting fixtures and luminaries strategically positioned

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to provide illumination for a specific outdoor or indoor area. The primary purpose of area
lighting is to ensure adequate and uniform lighting throughout the designated space,
enhancing visibility, safety, security, and functionality. Area lighting systems are commonly
used in various settings, and the specific design and requirements may vary depending on the
application.

Technology and Advancements

a. LED Lighting

● Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) have become the dominant technology in area
lighting due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and superior brightness.

b. Smart Lighting

● Advanced control systems, such as IoT-based solutions, allow for remote

monitoring and adjustment of lighting levels, optimizing energy usage and
reducing maintenance costs.

c. Solar-Powered Area Lighting

● In off-grid or environmentally sensitive areas, solar-powered area lighting

systems are used to reduce reliance on conventional power sources.

d. Motion Sensors

● Some area lighting systems incorporate motion sensors to provide illumination

only when needed, further increasing energy efficiency.

Usage and Benefits

a. Enhanced Safety

❖ Well-lit areas reduce the risk of accidents, crime, and vandalism, making them
crucial for public spaces and construction sites.

b. Energy Efficiency

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 ❖ LED technology and smart controls contribute to reduced energy consumption
and lower operational costs.

c. Cost Savings

❖ Long-lasting LED bulbs and reduced maintenance requirements result in cost

savings over time.

d. Environmental Impact

❖ Energy-efficient lighting options, including LEDs and solar-powered systems,

help reduce the carbon footprint.

e. Aesthetic Appeal

❖ In addition to functionality, area lighting can enhance the aesthetic appeal of

outdoor spaces and architectural features.

What is an area lighting system?

An area lighting system is a type of lighting that illuminates a large area. It is typically
used in outdoor settings, such as parking lots, walkways, and sports fields. Area
lighting systems can be either fixed or portable.

Types of area lighting systems

There are two main types of area lighting systems:

a. Fixed area lighting systems

These systems are permanently installed and typically mounted on poles or buildings.
They are often used in high-traffic areas, such as parking lots and walkways.

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b. Portable area lighting systems
These systems are not permanently installed and can be moved around as needed.
They are often used in temporary installations, such as at construction sites or
festivals.

Components of an area lighting system

The following are the main components of an area lighting system:

a. Light fixtures
The light fixtures are responsible for emitting light. They can be either incandescent,
LED, or other types of lamps.

b. Poles or mounting brackets

The poles or mounting brackets support the light fixtures. They can be made of metal
or concrete.

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c. Power supply
The power supply provides electricity to the light fixtures. It can be either a mains
power supply or a battery power supply.

d. Control
The controls allow you to turn the lights on and off and to adjust the brightness of the
lights.

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Factors to consider when choosing an area lighting system

The following are some of the factors to consider when choosing an area lighting
system:

a. The size of the area to be illuminated

The size of the area will determine the number and type of light fixtures needed.

b. The desired level of illumination

The desired level of illumination will depend on the activity taking place in the area.

c. The type of light fixture

The type of light fixture will depend on the desired light distribution and the budget.

d. The mounting method

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 The mounting method will depend on the type of light fixture and the existing
infrastructure.

e. The power supply

The power supply will depend on the location of the area lighting system and the
availability of mains power.

f. The controls
The controls will depend on the desired level of automation and the budget.

Benefits of area lighting systems

Area lighting systems offer a number of benefits, including:

a. Improved safety
Well-lit areas are safer for pedestrians and motorists
b. Increased security
Well-lit areas are less attractive to criminals.
c. Enhanced visibility
Well-lit areas make it easier to see obstacles and hazards.
d. Increased productivity
Well-lit areas can improve productivity in workplaces and schools.

e. Reduced energy costs

LED area lighting systems can save energy costs over traditional incandescent systems.

Considerations

a. Design and Layout

➔ Proper design and placement of lighting fixtures are critical to achieving

uniform illumination across the designated area.

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 b. Regulations and Standards

➔ Compliance with local lighting regulations and standards is essential to ensure

safety and avoid legal issues.

c. Maintenance

➔ Regular maintenance and inspections are necessary to keep the system

operational and efficient.

1.11-LIGHTING SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

Lighting operations and maintenance ("O&M") are the practices that keep lighting systems
working at peak performance during the life of the building. As a designer, your choices can
make it easy or hard to maintain your lighting system. Lighting design is only as good as its
execution. Good operations and maintenance are necessary to keep the lighting systems
working as designed through the years. Neglect, poorly-chosen replacements, and
misunderstanding of systems can undo all the improvements of good lighting design. Good
lighting O&M is measured by system performance. The system should continue putting out
the lux or foot-candles of illumination in the proper places while using the watts of electricity
specified in the lighting design for the building. Commissioning agents usually perform these
audits. As technology improves, the performance may even be improved to exceed design
specs.

Comprehensive maintenance of lighting systems can provide hidden treasures for

institutional and commercial facilities. Managers can schedule technicians — not the
commissioning agent — to perform several key procedures to ensure the optimum
performance of the lighting system, including:

· Use correct replacement lamps. While all four-foot fluorescent tubes might look
alike, they can have different performance characteristics.

· Clean fixtures annually. A fixture's output can diminish by 10 percent a year just
from dust accumulation, even in a relatively clean environment.

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 · Verify other replacement components match the original. New ballasts,
transformers and drivers at least should have the same performance
characteristics.

· Ensure all ballasts have a published ballast factor. Maintenance and engineering
managers can use it as a multiplier to determine whether a lamp actually will
produce the predicted amount of light.

· Check dimming pre-sets periodically. This step can help verify they meet original
performance requirements.

· Check scene pre-sets to assure they meet original requirements. Dimming systems
have pre-sets that, once set, rarely need changing. If that is the case, locking them
either mechanically or electronically will prevent system problems.

Operations Manuals

Good design process can help ensure good operations and maintenance routines. The
lighting designer should create a manual for operations staff that makes the lighting design
intent clear, lists maintenance and replacement schedules, and makes it clear what
parameters should be measured during commissioning, as well as how often such
measurements should be done. Without a manual, operations personnel are left to
troubleshoot systems through piecemeal guesswork. This is never as effective as the whole-
systems approach that can be laid out by an operations manual.

o Schedules

An important part of the O&M manual is schedules for cleaning fixtures, replacing bulbs, and
measuring energy use and lighting levels. Performance measurements should be done
monthly or at least quarterly, to provide operators with enough data to tell when systems are
beginning to perform poorly.

o Flexibility

When building occupants bring in their own lights, it may be an indication that the lighting
system is not working as designed, or was not designed to meet the current users' needs.

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Have the flexibility to work with users to meet their needs while ensuring energy efficiency.
This may mean changes to the original design, or helping occupants choose efficient products
for their personal use.

o Cleaning

Keeping lamps and fixtures clean may be the most important factor in keeping their
performance high. However, it is often neglected. Walls, ceilings, and other lit surfaces
should also be kept clean, as their reflection of light is sometimes as important as the fixtures
themselves.

Clean bulbs and fixtures with soft moist cotton cloth, soft-bristled anti-static brush, or low-
power vacuum cleaner.

o Replacement

Bulbs should be replaced not only when they break, but on a schedule according to how the
brightness of the lamp decays over time. Some bulbs lose over a third of their initial
brightness over a few years.

Brightness of various fluorescent bulbs decaying over time

When replacing bulbs, bulk purchases can significantly reduce costs for the same quality
products. Scheduled replacement also facilitates this. Be sure to dispose of replaced bulbs
properly, as many fluorescents and other electric discharge lamps contain mercury. Handle
the bulbs carefully to avoid breaking them in transit, and take them to approved recycling
centers or arrange for pickup.

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As technology improves, replacements are an opportunity for upgrade. Be sure to refer to
the original lighting O&M manual to follow the design intent for the whole system. Use
evidence-based recommendations for upgrades, such as lighting audits. New bulb
technologies often require new fixtures. When replacing lighting systems, balance
installation costs with lifetime energy savings.

o Diagrams

Lighting control and wiring diagrams should be created and kept updated, to ensure control
systems are easy to understand. This not only makes it easy to troubleshoot problems, but
also helps plan replacement schedules and can aid in system upgrades.

These diagrams should include the fixtures, sensors, controller units, and how all these
components connect to each other, as well as boundaries of different control zones.

Lighting maintenance saves you money by reducing your wasted labour costs, keeping your
productivity up while ensuring quality work. If you run a business that needs lighting
maintenance, it can be a large job for your staff to handle and it would be more efficient and
safer to hire a lighting company to do it for you. Having your lights properly maintained is
crucial for saving your business money. Lightbulbs that aren’t maintained can go out
sporadically, and dirty bulbs use the same amount of power despite not putting out as much
light.

Repeated repair expenses due to a lack of planning will cost you more money than getting all
needed maintenance done at one time. Do your company a favour and create a lighting
maintenance program with a certified electrical company.

Reasons To Perform Regular Lighting Maintenance

Don’t Lose Labour Productivity. When your lamps go out, there will be a decrease in
productivity every time the lamps have to be removed and replaced. When this happens
multiple times, it creates repeated moments of lost productivity.

Save Money By Saving Energy. Cleaning light bulbs and fixtures keeps them brighter for
longer, creating less need for energy use therefore saving you money on the electric bill.

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Getting your lamps cleaned while having regular maintenance performed is a great way to
ensure your lighting is as efficient as possible.

Outsourcing Labour Makes Work More Efficient. By outsourcing the labour of relamping,
replacing all of the lightbulbs, either at once or as they burn out, your staff will be able to
focus on other, higher-priority tasks and keep your revenue up. It will also limit any incidents
caused by incorrect installation including any potential injuries from using lifts. Outsourcing
also means you wouldn’t have to rent a lift or hire pick up for recycling the lamps.

Proper Disposal. Lamps need to be recycled properly since they can contain mercury or lead.
Professionals will know how to handle damaged light bulbs, they have easy access to
recycling, and they can contain and clean up any accidental breaks.

Be Sure To Have Proper Installation. When you hire a professional lighting company to install
your lamps, you know that there won’t be any incidences of broken lamps and that all of the
lamps will be properly installed and won’t need readjustment later. Professionals know how
to properly handle bulbs efficiently and effectively, saving you from any incidents or
accidental expenses due to damages.

Get Lighting That Will Accent The Space. If you have a beautiful space that you want to enjoy,
let it be fully presented. Having a space properly lit gives it the right ambiance, and a
professional can help you determine which type of lighting will compliment the area. Take
advantage of your indoor and outdoor spaces with either warm lighting, soft lighting, bright
lighting, or more. Allow your lights to compliment your space as much as the other elements
of your home or boutique.

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References

Matt, C. (2010). Lighting System: Six Maintenance Tips. Retrieved from:

https://www.facilitiesnet.com/lighting/tip/Lighting-Systems-Six-Maintenance-Tips--
21421

Venturewell. (n.d.). Lighting and Operation Maintenance. Retrieved from:

https://sustainabilityworkshop.venturewell.org/buildings/lighting-operations-
maintenance.html#:~:text=Lighting%20operations%20and%20maintenance%20(%22O
%26M,as%20good%20as%20its%20execution.

FM Lighting Electrical. (n.d.). Let There Be Light: The Importance of Lighting Maintenance.
Retrieved:
https://fluorescentmanlighting.com/blog/Let+There+Be+Light+The+Importance+Of+Lig
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20out%20as%20much%20light.&text=Repeated%20repair%20expenses%20due%20to,
maintenance%20done%20at%20one%20time.

The FSG Blog. (2010). How to Conduct a Lighting Audit. Retrieved from:
https://fsg.com/how-to-conduct-a-lighting-
audit/#:~:text=What%20is%20a%20Lighting%20Audit,for%20how%20to%20get%20ther
e.

BYJU’S. (n.d.). Light Emitting Diode. Retrieved from: https://byjus.com/physics/light-

emitting-diode/

Mondal, S. & Mukherjee, M. (2015). Basics of Energy and Lighting Audit. Retrieved from:
https://www.ijsr.net/archive/v4i4/SUB153263.pdf

LinkedIn. (n.d.). Lighting Control Technology Importance, Benefits, and Types in Buildings.
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importance-benefits-types-iconic-
plus?fbclid=IwAR20RMb20r9AiW2cSThHLg_NZbziuM4gvtwJIO_IfB8FFmBUhuGi0hN5Ex
8

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Dilouie, C. (2017). Introduction to Lighting Controls. Retrieved from:
https://lightingcontrolsassociation.org/2017/07/21/introduction-to-lighting-
controls/?fbclid=IwAR2RQuPqsn2iTDReqC0PyuRRPPsofoDF26lwtm2-g3WhP8CQff9_t-
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Energy Saver. (n.d.). Lighting Controls. Retrieved from:

https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/lighting-controls?fbclid=IwAR2CegHrJmnQ1t-
4V1cuGY3a8KSB8JfI3nu_7H3oF7PO9-hRDzE8wwpmMBg

ICIBSE Journal. (2010). Lighting Control Technologies and Strategies to Cut Energy
Consumption.Retrieved from: https://www.cibsejournal.com/cpd/modules/2010-
11/?fbclid=IwAR2aHkaPlNt7UA8fOgXe3h1UyxaAmgwCGg5ONz-NOD-
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