Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL) vs LED Lamps
Filed Under Energy Efficient Lights, LED Landscape Lights | Leave a Comment
Compact fluorescent lamps cut greenhouse gas emissions and running costs by up to 75% whilst producing as much light as traditional incandescent globes.
The most popular versions come as plug-in compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) that are a direct replacement for incandescent globes. Traditional CFLs deliver most of their light to the sides, so an effective reflector may be needed to direct the light.
Some points:
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Low voltage halogen lamps are not low energy lamps: each one generates a kilogram of greenhouse gas every 15 hours—about the same as an ordinary 60 watt globe, although it does produce a little more light. Halogens are not easily replaced by more efficient alternatives, so installing them locks you in to high lighting bills.
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Fit lower wattage globes (or compact fluorescent lamps) in bright lights, especially down lights and spot lights: save up to 75% of the electricity.
- Select light fittings with reflectors that direct light where you want it and do not absorb too much light—coloured glass can halve light output, creating a need for higher wattage lamps.
LED lamps (LED means light emitting diode)
These are beginning to appear for outdoor use and specialised applications like night-lights. These lamps are very long-lasting and efficient. We’ll see a lot more of them in coming years because they have better light output that CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) at 100 lumens per watt, are 40 per cent brighter and have five times more life expectancy.
LEDs are the best bet for energy efficient garden and landscape lighting. An LED can go on for over 10 years without needing to be replaced.
You can reduce the money you spend on outdoor lighting with LEDs as they can be kept on for longer more economically, because of their low energy consumption.
LEDs are also ideal for spotlights, downlights and wall washers—where directional light is required from an extremely focused light source.
Improve Security & Save Power With Lighting Controllers
Filed Under Lighting Controllers, Motion Detectors | Leave a Comment
Most landscape lighting systems now use a lighting controller with a timer that shuts your garden lights off at night (to save power and avoid disturbing neighbors).
Some systems will also let you select an option to maintain your lights at a reduced power setting, so you have a soft glow rather than full illumination.
Many systems also include a motion sensor in the control system. When the motion sensor is activated, it fully illuminates the lights for a pre-selected amount of time.
This performs 2 functions:
- It either advises you that there is someone on your property. In this situation the motion sensor fully illuminates the lights to alert you when an intruder has entered your property, providing your home with all night security.
- Or it turns on the lights to welcome you home and guide you safely to your door.
These lighting controllers are suitable to use with manor house landscape lighting systems.