Lighting Q & A

If you’ve been shopping around for interior lighting recently, you’ve probably been seeing and hearing more about LEDs, or light emitting diodes. These little lamps produce light when voltage is applied, however, they’re a bit different than the traditional light bulb. In fact, LEDs are some of the most efficient and long lasting lighting sources available and as time goes on, they’ll only increase in their popularity.

Now when it comes to LEDs, it’s important to know that they are incredibly small. Because LEDs are really just chemical chips embedded in a plastic capsule that reacts when voltage is applies, you may need several LEDs just to produce a single light bulb. But more LEDs doesn’t mean less efficiency.

LEDs don’t really produce much heat, which means they’re much more energy efficient when installed in your home. They last a long time and they’d don’t require much voltage to operate. Plus, many LEDs come with the ENERGY STAR certification, which means they’re specifically designed to save money as well as the planet.

As for usage, LEDs are popular in light strands (like holiday lights), as well as in under the cabinet lighting, but there are tons of new technologies being developed so that entire rooms can be lit by LEDs through one or multiple fixtures. Desk lamps, table lamps, and even chandeliers can be illuminated through the use of LEDs. At ValleyLighting-CT.com, we carry several LED lighting options, as well as LED bulbs, that are perfect for trying out in your home.

Still have questions about LEDs? Feel free to ask us in the comments!

Outdoor Dark Sky Lighting

“Hey Valley Lighting, we have a question. My wife and I have been hearing a lot about dark sky lighting and we want to know more. Can you fill us in? Thanks! -  Don and Margo, NY“

Hi Don and Margo!

Dark sky lighting is actually a new effort put in by many cities to avoid light pollution. You see, in many heavily-populated areas, it was getting really tough to see stars. Residential lighting was causing a glare on the roadways and wasting valuable illumination by pointing it toward the night sky instead of their sidewalks, doors, etc. So, in order to bring back that view of the stars and use lighting more efficiently, some states passed laws requiring homes and business to use lighting that is much more efficient and doesn’t contribute to the overall light pollution.

Also, to help combat all of this wasted light, the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) was created. Its mission is to “preserve and protect the nighttime environment and our heritage of dark skies through quality outdoor lighting.” Basically, dark sky lighting just wants to reduce the amount of light wasted on lighting up the night sky and instead point it back to where it really needs to be.

In terms of finding and using dark sky lighting fixtures, it takes some planning out and a good look at layout. Outdoor lighting, when done right, can actually improve the safety of your property without adding more light pollution. If you want to be more energy efficient and in compliance with dark sky lighting regulations, you’ll have to look for outdoor lighting fixtures that actually showcase dark lighting features, like pointing light downward and keeping light better contained. Also, make sure that when installing outdoor lighting, you’re pointing it only where you need to go. Light up your paths, illuminate steps, or keep your porch well-lit. Don’t focus on putting excess lighting around your home.

Hope this helps to answer your question!

“What is low voltage lighting? I’ve heard about it but have no idea what it is or how it even applies to me. Any answers?” – Chris, OH

Hi Chris,

Low voltage lighting is a type of lighting system that uses a few simple components: a plug-in transformer, a low voltage cable, and a low voltage light fixture. The transformer will plug into a grounded outdoor power receptacle and reduces the standard volt current of 110 down to a low 12 volts. Then, the cable, which is hooked onto the transformer, will distribute power to the light fixture connected along the length of the cable.

Low voltage lighting is typically used to illiminate walkway entrances, accent steps or curbing, outline driveways, accentuate landscaping or architectural features, or decorate patios. Basically, it’s for accent lighting in outdoor areas without having to deal with the power drain of traditional cables and voltage. It’s incredibly energy efficient and economical. Plus, some consider it to be much safer for outdoor spaces.

Hope this helps to answer your question!

Question: “Hey, so I was wondering, what’s the big difference between a floor lamp and a torchiere? I’ve seen them both and they pretty much look the same to me. Is there once place you use one and another place for the other? I’m trying to find the right one for my living room. Please help!” - Sarah, VT

Answer: Hi Sarah, not to worry!

There’s a simple way to sort this out. Floor lamps and torchieres do look alike, though they have different functions. Torchieres are designed to reflect light off the ceiling and walls for ambient effects. They provide a less light but to a much bigger area. If you have a dark corner that needs some illumination or a space that doesn’t have a lot of ambient lighting, then you would use a torchiere to lighten up the room.

Now, a floor lamp is a bit different. Though both lamps are tall and shaped similarly, floor lamps are more geared toward task lighting. So, if you need a lamp next to a chair or desk so that you can read, work on something, etc. then you would use a floor lamp.

Hope this helps and good luck with the living room lighting!

“Hi. I just got a new chandelier for my dining room and I was wondering what the rules are in terms of hanging and choosing the right kind of bulbs. Any tips are welcome! Thanks!” – Francis, NY

Hi Francis!

Chandeliers are beautiful lighting fixtures that merit a little extra special treatment when it somes to installation. As a general rule,  you should try to hang your chandelier so that it’s between 30 and 35 inches above the table. Also, consider the size of the room when picking your chandelier.

There should be a minimum of 150 watts total in the chandelier to provide enough illumination (check the fixture instructions to find out what type of bulbs it needs) and the size of the fixture shouldn’t overwhelm the space.  Make sure the chandelier is aligned above the center of the dining table.

Finally, make sure that the chandelier is installed securely. Be sure to check the ceiling electrical box before installation so that you can be sure that the fixture is properly supported. If you have any issues concerning wiring or support, you may want to call in an electrician.

“Hi, I want to hang some swing arm bedside lamps in my apartment (I got approval from the landlord) and now I’m wondering what would look best. Is there a specific level that these lights should be hung? I already have the fixtures picked out – all I have to do is install! Thanks!” – Katie, New York

Hi Katie! First off, swing arm bedside lamps can be a great addition to any bedroom, especially if you’re the type of person who loves to read in bed. These contemporary fixtures can also be a bit tricky though when it comes to installation. The key to getting the look just right is to consider the lighting style as well as your bedside tables. Different heights are going to suit different spaces, so be sure that you check out how these fixtures will look above your tables and near your headboard. If you’re still not sure, installing these fixtures at about 18 to 24 inches should be a good bet.

Hope this helps!