A home in Houston, TX, with landscape lighting

Incredible Benefits of Lanscape Lighting You Need to Know

Posted by Robert Huff on

In recent years landscape lighting has become all the rage. People are seeing the increased benefit of spending time outdoors. With crazy work schedules and shortened daylight hours in winter months, a lot of this time maybe after the sun has gone down. Here you will find just a few of the major benefits that landscape lighting can provide to you and outdoor lighting ideas to make the most of your space.

People that wish to commit crimes prefer areas that aren’t well lit. Additionally, you will be reducing the number of bugs that gather near your entryways. Insects are attracted to the light source, and having it further away from your homeless will enter when you do. There are many ways to approach this style of lighting, but the best way is to experiment and plan. Illuminate your yard with landscape lighting and think of how the light affects your home’s appearance so that you can have all three benefits at once.

Lighting can also be used to increase personal safety. By strategically using light along various paths in the front or back of your home, you are reducing the chances of someone being injured. It also enhances the appearance of the walkway. One option is to use solar lights for this so that there is no wiring required. You also don’t have to worry that by using it, you will be increasing your energy bill or carbon footprint.

Patio and porch lighting options have come a long way as well. Instead of having to have a large overhead light to increase visibility, you could use other options that are now available. There are recessed lighting options that can be installed into a deck to create a soft light that still illuminates the space. You can also purchase fixtures that can be rotated in various directions so that you can have it pointing in the exact direction that you want it without having to have fixtures through the entire space. There are landscape lighting you’ll love in 2020 and can help to make your space just as enjoyable at night as the indoors.

While landscape lighting can increase the enjoyment that you have in your backyard, it can also increase the value of your property. People can see that you have put in this effort in enhancing the living space of your home and then imagine themselves enjoying it. It also can be used to increase security, which is a major selling point these days. The lighting itself can be extremely affordable, yet increase the overall value of your home due to street appeal. Whether you are considering selling your home sometime soon or may in the future, it is an investment that is worth making.

Some may feel that they do not even know where to begin with enhancing their outdoor space. Fortunately, countless resources are available online as well as through retailers. Take the time to look at your outdoor space and consider what you would like. From there you can search to see if there are products that can meet your needs, on outdoor lighting Houston. Chances are you just a few clicks away from having an amazing outdoor space.

Visit our blog to discover more tips and tricks. Call or contact us today for more information!

Why Outdoor Lighting Is So Important In Houston

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Knowing The Importance Of Houston Exterior Lighting

Spring is here with us, and summer is just around the corner in a couple of months. And with the warm weather brings with it longer days – the ideal time for outdoor BBQ get-togethers and outdoor house parties! Entertaining people entails much more than offering good music, vibes, and food. You must consider your outdoor lighting, especially if the party you are hosting is at night. Possessing proper lighting to your deck or patio can add significant value to any household.

Basic Knowledge

As compared to how nighttime light is seen, the day’s lighting is different. Of course, t is essential that you have proper lighting during the night, especially in outdoor spaces and pathways. When selecting the right type of lighting, there are various principles you should keep in mind. For instance, light varies in color, emitted quantity, and intensity.

Regardless if you are using outdoor or indoor lighting, it is basically divided into three layers:

  • Overall: This illuminates an entire room or space.
  • Task: Utilized for a specific reason _I.e. lighting up a pathway)
  • Accent: Shines attention to an object or area – often accomplished with spotlights and floodlights.

There are several bulbs perfectly suited for outdoor fixtures:

  • Incandescent Bulbs: emits brilliant light but has a shorter lifespan; also consumes a lot of electricity
  • Halogen Bulbs: are similar to incandescents but are way more efficient; they use less energy and have a longer life.
  • Fluorescents: have a longer lifespan and are offered in more colors; energy efficient
  • LED Bulbs: have a long life but are more expensive; consume considerably less energy

Advantages Of Outdoor Lighting

  • Beauty: Having the proper outdoor lighting forms pleasing ambiance patios and decks. It also assists in making the home’s exterior aesthetic more appealing. It for sure adds a dash of elegance to it.
  • Security: By having outdoor lighting, you will be keeping your house secure. If your garages, entryways, and dark walkways are adequately illuminated, you see prospective anomalies and intruders easily.
  • Safety: Another essential advantage of having an outdoor lighting system is safety. By having your pathways properly lit during a house party, it will be easy for your guests to get around without losing their way or their step.

Robert Huff Landscape Illumination has more than 30 years of experience in landscape lighting scene in Houston. We are insured and a fully licensed outdoor lighting company situated in Houston, TX, and also offer outdoor lighting in the Austin, TX area. Our commercial and outdoor home lighting team is friendly and will work alongside you to make sure they tailor-make a lighting design that’s functional, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing. For every job we do, we maintain a high level of responsibility, consistency, and high-level professional care. You can expect to get quality services each step of the way, as we change the ordinary to something special.

Contact or call Robert Huff Landscape Illumination lighting professionals now for a FREE estimate! Visit our blog for more related articles.

LED Lights In Houston: The Present & Future Of Energy-Efficient Lighting

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Is It Good To Switch In A Houston LED Lighting?

The LED technology has made significant strides over the past few years. Today’s LEDs have a longer lifespan of more than 400,000hrs. And some of the best models are available with custom CRIs, Kelvin temperatures, and unique optics. Overall, all the LEDs are energy-efficient solutions.

The LED Difference

LEDs are distinctively directional, which means they emit a light that travels in a specific direction. With fluorescent and HID lamps, the light flows in all directions; as such, there is a lot of wasted light. The directional lighting synonymous with LEDs thus limits the wastage of light, and this translates to higher efficiency and lower wattage consumptions.

The lack of a filament means that LEDs, and unlike the HID and Fluorescent bulbs, are more resistant to damage. They are categories in the group of solid-state lighting solutions. They can withstand bumping and jarring. LEDs do not contain any mercury and generate little heat compared to their predicator technologies.

What Are LEDs?

LEDs rely on semiconductor diodes mostly known as light-emitting diodes that radiate electroluminescence when electricity passes through in a forward motion. The flowing electrons in the current move through the semiconductor and fall into other energy levels while on transit to the P-N junction. The electron transition into a lower energy level that causes them to emit a photon of light. The photo might be infrared, with that spectrum, into ultraviolet light, or anywhere on the visible light spectrum.

Incorporating LEDs Into Luminaires

Initially, the LEDs were made with the diodes that were wired in a line and mounted onto a heat sink. However, this set up face numerous performance limitations and issues.

The diodes were mostly installed permanently onto a solid, pre-drilled surface with holes that are specific to the LEDs being used. If one LED failed, then the entire fixture would not work. Moreover, doing upgrades was not possible, meaning there was no effective means of changing the faulty LEDs.

Currently, the technology has morphed into something more practical. The LED modules used are customizable. They are retrofittable and replaceable. The housing for the light fixtures is customized to support and enhance the capabilities of the LEDs to ensure the delivery of more lumens per watt.

LED Light Engines/Modules

The latest LEDs are upgradeable; you can change an LED module that fails just like how you would with a light bulb. As such, manufacturers can utilize the component they want in LED fixtures.

LED Module Manufacturers

Different companies are producing light modules for various applications. That is why these modules are adaptable since they are available in changeable optics and multiple wattages.

LED Drivers

For the LEDs to work, they need a transformer instead of the standard line voltage. The transformers or drivers convert the current into usable energy. It the same principle applied in HID fixtures. Many manufacturers produce these drivers, hence the need to research and know the driver that suits your LED installation.

LEDs & Glass Lenses

The older luminaires were made with a protective lens; this is old technology but was meant to protect the ballast, light source, and driver from dirt. However, the optics used in these early LEDs cannot work the same as the latest LED lighting technologies. In as much as these luminaries are the best lighting solutions, their efficacy can be limited by poor position or the type of glass cover or lenses used.

If you would like to discover more tips and tricks from Robert Huff Illuminations; visit our blog. Call or contact us today for more information!

Environmental Advantages Of Using Houston LED Lights

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Benefits Of LED Lights To The Environment In Houston

Today, conserving the environment must be a duty that every person should feel obligated to perform. We are all aware of various eco-friendly policies such as recycling to reduce the waste we create and minimize our carbon footprint. But, a majority of the population does not know about the latest and emerging technologies that we can utilize to cut carbon emissions. One excellent example is LED lighting, which helps to keep the environment clean.

Energy Saving

LED lighting exceeds the efficiency of traditional lighting such as incandescent and fluorescent lights by up to 80%. They have a 95% energy conversion rate, only 5% of LEDs energy goes to waste as heat. This is in contrast to fluorescent lighting which wastes as much as 95% of the energy, just 5% is turned into the light! Also, LEDs draw lower power compared to traditional lights: a normal 84-watt fluorescent can be substituted by a 36-watt LED to generate a similar amount of light. Energy-saving characteristics minimize the need for energy from power plants and reduce gas emissions from greenhouses.

Because LEDs consume more low-cost energy in comparison to an incandescent bulb, there is a huge reduction in power expenses, and consequently, a drastic fall in your monthly utility bills. Energy and money are saved on servicing and replacement expenses because of the durability of LEDs.

Free From Toxic Substances

LED lights are clean and without toxic substances. Most commercial buildings are currently using fluorescent strip lights that carry harmful substances such as mercury. This will pollute the surroundings when dumped in a landfill. Discarding such waste has to be done through a certified waste management provider, thus upgrading to LED lights eliminates the time and cost required for compliance during disposal, at the same time it keeps away additional toxic waste from the environment. LED is also considered clean or eco-friendly and can be recycled.

Fewer Lights Required

LEDs possess superior light distribution capabilities and focus light in a single direction in contrast to other kinds of light that misuse energy by radiating light in every direction, often providing light to sections where light is inessential like the ceiling. For this reason, a lower number of LED lights are required to attain a similar degree of brightness produced by incandescent and fluorescent lights. Lesser lights will cut energy usage, and this will be an advantage to the environment.

Long Active Life

A longer expected life implies reduced carbon emissions. LEDs have an expected life of almost 60,000 hours whereas incandescent bulbs have a standard lifespan of 1,500 hours. A good LED light can function properly when in regular use for more than 7 years before requiring replacement. LED lights remain functional for six times longer than other kinds of lighting, reducing the need for repeated replacement. As a consequence, fewer lights are used, therefore, lesser resources are required for production, packaging, and distribution. The prolonged life span of LED lights will drastically cut maintenance expenses and reduce long-term running expenses in contrast to traditional fluorescent and Lamoureux lights.

If you would like to discover more tips and tricks from Robert Huff Illuminations; visit our blog. Call or contact us today for more information!

Knowing How Our Outdoor Lights Are Wired In Houston

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Tips For Wiring Your Houston Outdoor Lights

Like other types of light, most outdoor lights need electricity to operate. That electricity is usually provided through wires. Having said that, there is no need to panic about your outdoor space getting overrun with wires. Most wiring for outdoor lighting runs underground, meaning that you won’t even see the wires after they are in place. Any above-ground wiring is usually designed to blend with the surrounding area so that it isn’t noticeable at a glance. Read on to get some helpful tips on wiring outdoor lights.

Every lighting situation requires a unique solution when it comes to wiring. For instance, the type of lighting that you choose for a pathway will usually be a lot different than what you choose for a driveway. The section below outlines some of the most popular ways to wire outdoor light fixtures.

Understanding Transformers

If you use transformers to power your outdoor lights, each light fixture is wired to the transformer. The wires themselves can either be above or below the ground. The transformer is then plugged into an outdoor outlet. Below is some more information so you can get a better idea of how these devices operate.

Transformers help your lights work in one of two ways: they either use a photocell or a timer. Transformers that operate on a timer are designed to automatically turn the lights off or on at specific times of the day. Transformers with a photocell, on the other hand, automatically detect the level of light outside, turning the lights on when it gets dark and shutting them off when it gets light. Transformers like these are popular for use in ponds.

Wiring The Lights To A Switch

Nothing is quite as satisfying as turning on a light switch and having your whole outdoor space light up. Wiring your outdoor light fixtures to a switch inside your home is a great option. There are a couple of different methods that you can use to accomplish this. The first is to wire the lights directly to the switch. The second option is to wire the lights to a transformer that is plugged into an outdoor outlet. The switch inside your home provides power to the outlet, which turns on the transformer and activates the lights. With this option, you can either turn on the lights manually or you can wait and allow them to turn on automatically when the sun goes down.

Solar Lighting

Solar lights rely on the sun upon for power. They do best in extremely sunny conditions. One of the greatest things about lights like these is that they don’t require any wiring. Typically, they have LED bulbs, which means that they use very little energy. That makes them a lot more practical than halogen bulbs for solar applications.

The Downsides To Solar Lighting

While solar lighting is easy to install, it does have some drawbacks. For one thing, the lights themselves lack the brightness of lights that are powered by electricity. This usually has to do with where they are placed. Lights that aren’t directly in the sun won’t get as bright as lights that are located in sunny areas.

No matter what type of lighting you opt for, adding outdoor lights can brighten up your home.

Lighting Up Your Exterior Space

When properly installed, outdoor lighting can enhance your home, making it much more beautiful after dark. When incorrectly designed, however, it can look a little bit garish and overdone. The key to lighting the outside of your home is to use a light touch, only placing lights in the most important areas. If you need help designing your outdoor lighting, reach out to Houston Window Coverings today.

If you would like to discover more tips and tricks from Robert Huff Illuminations; visit our blog. Call or contact us today for more information!

Houston LED Landscape Lights: Is It Good For Outdoor Lighting Purposes?

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Reasons To Use LED Landscape Lights For Outdoor Lighting In Houston

An LED (light-emitting diode) is a semiconductor that emits light. Light is produced when current flows in the semiconductor recombining with electron holes, hence releasing photon energy. LEDs are known to produce light in different spectrums and light. The color of light emitted is however dependent on the number of electrons needed to release energy across the bandgap. For white light, a layer of light-emitting phosphor or multiple semiconductors have to be used on the semiconductor device.

LED lights are common in both indoor and outdoor lighting. LED landscape lighting makes the perfect choice if looking for durability, energy efficiency, and even adaptability. When compared to other types of lighting, LED landscape lighting is far more beneficial and versatile, a reason many people are making the switch.

In addition to making it easy to keep your outdoors well lit, LED lights are relatively easy to maintain and don’t attract high lighting bills. That said, LED lights will help keep the landscape looking great without needing regular maintenance, as well as keep everyone around safe. Many city landscape designers choose to use this type of lighting in an attempt to not only make the city beautiful but safe for all.

While LEDs come in handy in landscape lighting, it would be advisable to choose the right type of LEDs for the job. Some of the factors you ought to consider when selecting LEDs include output light options, the specific project, and lighting design, among other preferences. Discussed below are some of the advantages and reasons you should consider using LED landscape lighting.

1. Compatibility With Detection Controls

LED landscape lighting systems can be attached to sensors and other control systems making it easy to control the intensity of light, as well as adjust brightness when needed. In addition to this, these systems can be programmed to turn on when the system doesn’t detect natural light, with the intensity increasing as the night progresses. In addition to this, the LEDs will dim progressively as daylight starts setting in in the morning.

There is a wide variety of high-quality LED landscape lighting system controls and products on the market that one can choose from. As mentioned earlier, most of these systems are compatible with various systems and can be programmed as per the client’s needs. As an added advantage, no manual intervention is required to switch the lights on or off. As long as the systems are programmed well, you can focus on other things knowing everything will work as desired. You also never have to worry about substantial energy bills either.

2. Adaptability & Flexibility To Various Landscapes

The LED lighting is very flexible and can be used in almost any landscape design. The LEDs are not only easy to install but can also be extended over time covering the entire landscape as per your wishes. As an added advantage, LEDs can be set to various moods. This is because you can switch from one color to another at the touch of a button. All that is needed to make this possible is to ensure you have the proper landscape lighting design, and a few low-voltage LED transformers if covering an extensive landscape.

Most landscape designers will start small then expand their focus over time. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can use LED landscape lighting for whatever designs you have. It’s worth noting that LED lighting systems make it possible to expand an existing line without necessarily starting over. This thus means you can make the landscape much safer with efficient lighting.

Unlike most light sources that emit lots of heat, LEDs emit very little heat in the form of IR. That said, you can be assured none of your fabrics or sensitive objects will be damaged by heat radiated by the same. Much of the heat produced by the LEDs is dispersed through its base.

3. They Are Perfect For Hard To Reach Areas & Spaces

You can control light intensity from these LEDs by lowering the forward current or by pulse-width modulation. This is the reason they are slowly becoming popular on car headlights. They also produce a stroboscopic effect when viewed from a distance, a factor that makes them stand out from other types of light.

LED lights can be installed in areas you would have considered impossible for a light fixture to be installed. LED landscape lights can, therefore, be used to light up the outdoors creating a backdrop for guests and strangers, especially at night. These come in handy when holding an outdoor event such as a party among other celebrations.

LED lights require minimal to no maintenance once installed. That said, you can have the lights installed and even leave them for years without turning them on. You won’t even have to replace the LEDs when you come back or need to use them. This is the reason why installing them in hard to reach areas won’t be a problem. That said, you can be assured of many years of service and longevity once the LED landscape lights are installed.

4. They Are An Energy-Efficient Option

LEDs are presumably the most energy-efficient landscape lighting options on the market today. These elements use up a fraction of what incandescent and even fluorescents use. You therefore never have to worry about substantial energy bills from keeping your landscape well-lit and looking beautiful at night. According to consumer reports, LED landscape lighting is at least 90% more energy-efficient as compared to other lighting options. As an added advantage, LEDs have a longer shelf life as well. They are capable of lasting up to 100,000 hours before requiring a replacement. This, therefore, saves you both time and money in terms of energy bills and replacements

5. LED Landscape Lights Are Eco-Friendly

If concerned about energy efficiency and particularly careful about your carbon footprint, you can then rest assured that LED lights are environmentally safe. Unlike incandescent bulbs, LEDs do not contain mercury or any other harmful compound. They are also 100% recyclable.

From the facts and benefits outlined above, it is evident that LEDs are the perfect choice for landscape lighting. In addition to their versatility and durability, you will be saving lots of money in energy bills and maintenance.

Call or contact us today if you require any information. Please feel free to visit our blog for more related articles.

Helpful Ideas To Investing In Houston Outdoor Lighting

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7 Tips To Help You Get It Right When Investing In Outdoor Lighting

With summer now here with us, you most likely are gearing up to enjoying the great outdoors. Your backyard may become your favorite place to chill in when you are at home or when hosting your friends for lunch or dinner. Therefore, the fun should not stop when the sun sets because you do not have any outdoor lighting.

When investing in the outdoor lights, keep in mind that the lighting options are not created the same. Moreover, setting up the lights involves more than installing them on the walls or hanging string lights from the roof. You should strive to create an elegant ambiance, and this demands that you choose the right lighting fixture.

1. Include These Types

When planning the lighting, you need to account for three basic types: task, ambiance, and accent. That means you need to pick the right kind of lights for each of the three. The task lighting will be the lights you install to illuminate the walkway, deck, driveway, patio, and the security lights. The ambiance lighting will be what you fit on the walls, posts, and string from the roof. As for the accent lighting, you will be working with lights that enhance your landscaping; this can include options such as spotlights.

2. Calculate

Before heading out to buy the outdoor lights, you should know how many fixtures you need and which kind. For this, you will need to get a pen and paper and do some calculations. You will take the square footage of your yard and multiply it by 1.5 to estimate the required total wattage. Therefore, a 100sq. feet area will need 150watts.

3. Make Your Pick In Advance

After doing your calculations and figuring the wattage, you then will focus on the type of lighting fixtures you need. You will take into account their size and installation position before you go to buy them. You will need to draw a template of the layout on paper and use it to determine the placement of each light. For instance, for the patio at the back or the front porch, you will position the wall lights a height that is one-third that of the door.

4. Use LEDs

LEDs that the best investment when it comes to lighting up your backyard. The lights are cost-effective, less energy demanding, and last longer than the incandescent or halogen bulbs. Moreover, LEDs need little to no maintenance.

5. Seek Inspiration Inside Your Home

If you feel lost when figuring out the layout plan for the outdoor lights or what to pick, you can get some idea from inside your house and the arrangement of your outdoor space. Look at the garden and how the pathways flow, consider the size and design of your patio and then image what lighting fixtures will accentuate them. If you are thinking of creating a lit area of your outdoor dinners, then get some inspirations from your dining or living rooms.

6. Use Subtle Light For Entertainment Areas

Bright spotlights will be a distraction to your guests when they are seated enjoying their outdoor meal. As such, you should consider installing lamps with a soft glow. Subtlety is the name of the game when it comes to lighting up the outdoor dining areas, and the lights should be installed to give indirect lighting. Pendants, ceiling fans that have light kits, and lanterns are excellent options worth considering.

7. Think About Security

Lastly, remember that outdoor lighting is not just about enhancing the aesthetics of your yard. They also should help secure your home. Given this, you need fixtures that will ensure that all entry points are well lit. For instance, you can install wall lanterns on either side of the garage and a single lamp above the main door to light up the front porch. You can fit spotlights on the eaves of your roof at selected sides of the house that are in the shadows.

If you would like to discover more tips and tricks from Robert Huff Illuminations; visit our blog. Call or contact us today for more information!

Understanding You Should Choose Houston LED Lights

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What Makes LED lights So Superior In Houston?

LED lights offer the most cost-effective way of lighting your home, office, or storefront. They are also an energy-efficient solution. The bulbs or lighting systems are based on LED technology. LEDs (light-emitting diodes) come into the scene with a bang and quickly took the helm as the most economical option when it comes to lighting. The can be found in major hardware and retailer stores across the country.

In as much as the LED lighting has taken the helm, many people are still using the fluorescent and halogen bulbs. They are yet to discover the advantages of the LEDs and why they have quickly become cheap and highly efficient lighting methods over recent years.

1. Incredible Efficiency

With an efficiency score of 80% – 90% for electrical energy generated compared to the traditional lighting options, it means that the LED converts electricity to light in a more effective way. That means that only 20% – 10% of the energy is lost during the process. For the incandescent bulbs, the figures are seemingly the reverse, with an energy loss of more than 80% in the form of heat.

2. Unsurpassed Longevity

Since the lights designed to have low carbon emissions, the LED lights are thus made to have a longer life span than other types of lights. The lights last six times longer than the conventional bulbs; therefore, they reduce the frequency of doing replacements. As a result, there are few lights needs, and this lowers the need for the resources need to make these lights.

The standard LED bulb has a lifespan of approximately 50,000 operational hours. Comparatively, this is 50 times longer than the lifespan of an incandescent bulb and roughly 20-25 times longer than for a halogen bulb. When the LED reaches its limit, it starts emitting a lower illumination that becomes less bright over time. This is very different for the standard bulbs that burn out and stop working.

3. Operate Using Low Voltage

Being low energy-consuming lighting options, the LEDs require little power to operate. As such, they will light up even when powered by a solar system. They do not generate any heat, thus they will not become hot to the touch. And the fact that they do not emit any UV rays makes them perfect for lighting textile and food displays.

95% of the energy directed into lighting LEDs is converted into light meaning only 5% is lost as heat. This makes the LEDs 80% more efficient than conventional lamps such as incandescent and fluorescent bulbs. The LED lights have a lower energy demand; a 36-watt LED will generate the same lighting intensity as would the typical fluorescent 84-watt lamp. The decrease in electricity demand means power plants are not pressured to deliver more energy, and this helps to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Little Maintenance

The long lifespan means that the LEDs do not need frequent replacement compared to their incandescent counterparts. As such, this reduces the need for maintenance and the resource involved in such, especially is large public areas such as the train stations.

5. Environmentally Friendly

The LED technology fully embraces eco-friendly guidelines; as such, these lights do not have any toxic elements. Most of the fluorescents used in office contain harmful chemicals such as mercury that can pollute the environment when disposed of incorrectly. Moreover, such a thing should be done via the recommended channels such as via a registered waste carrier. The use of LEDs is devoid of these things; thus, you can cut down on costs and save time wasted in complying with the disposal protocols.

Furthermore, the LEDs do not emit any UV rays and are 100% recyclable; therefore, the best investment if you are keen on reducing your carbon footprint. To help put things into perspective, one LED lamp can serve you for a period in which you would have used roughly more than 25 incandescent bulbs. That means that you can save on production if you switch to the LEDs.

6. Durability

The LED lights have some of the most rugged components that can withstand the harshest of conditions. They are resistant to shock and vibrations thus less likely to break. Some of the fluorescent bulbs are affected by a drop in the temperatures more so those installed in outdoor spaces. The LED lamps are not susceptible to such climatic changes.

7. Instantaneous Illumination

When you turn on an LED lamp, it lights up immediately and emits the set full range of illumination. That is why these lights are becoming a standard feature in infrastructure projects such as traffic lights and signals. The constant on and off switching of these lights do not impact the longevity and illumination intensity of the LEDs. Such performance is a sharp contrast to the conventional bulbs that drastically lose their operational life when they are repeatedly turned on and off within very short periods.

8. Many Color Options

While white lights are a top preference for many, you also can find the LEDs in an array of colors. Some LED modules even have a mix of colors in one lighting device; these are called RGB modules. They are designed to achieve a broad spectrum of colors when operated.

9. A Compact Solution

The lights can be made to be as small are 2mm. That means that they can be used or fitted in some of the hard to reach places that have limited to no lighting.

10. Assortment Of Design Options

Based on their design and technology, these lights offer flexibility, which means they can be made to conform to any shape for different applications. Moreover, they can also be set up in a controlled system while individual diodes can be dimmed to manage the level of illumination in a given area. With options ranging from color variations and lighting intensity, LEDs suffice to meet different needs and demands. The LEDs can be found in cars, classes, medical rooms, airplanes, and factories.

11. A Better Distribution Of Light

The intensity and clarity of the light that the LEDs emit means that you can focus the light in one direction without having to depend on a reflector. And those with a dimmer function offer greater control. As such, it is possible to manage the amount of light to distribute over a given area.

The Verdict

LEDs are the way of the future. They are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and energy-saving lighting solutions for residential and commercial areas and applications. Therefore, you should make the smart move today and switch to LED bulbs.

If you would like to discover more tips and tricks from Robert Huff Illuminations; visit our blog. Call or contact us today for more information!

A Guide For Choosing LED Lights In Houston

Posted by Robert Huff on

What Makes Houston LED Lights So Superior?

LED lights offer the most cost-effective way of lighting your home, office, or storefront. They are also an energy-efficient solution. The bulbs or lighting systems are based on LED technology. LEDs (light-emitting diodes) come into the scene with a bang and quickly took the helm as the most economical option when it comes to lighting. The can be found in major hardware and retailer stores across the country.

In as much as the LED lighting has taken the helm, many people are still using the fluorescent and halogen bulbs. They are yet to discover the advantages of the LEDs and why they have quickly become cheap and highly efficient lighting methods over recent years.

1. Incredible Efficiency

With an efficiency score of 80% – 90% for electrical energy generated compared to the traditional lighting options, it means that the LED converts electricity to light in a more effective way. That means that only 20% – 10% of the energy is lost during the process. For the incandescent bulbs, the figures are seemingly the reverse, with an energy loss of more than 80% in the form of heat.

2. Unsurpassed Longevity

Since the lights designed to have low carbon emissions, the LED lights are thus made to have a longer life span than other types of lights. The lights last six times longer than the conventional bulbs; therefore, they reduce the frequency of doing replacements. As a result, there are few lights needs, and this lowers the need for the resources need to make these lights.

The standard LED bulb has a lifespan of approximately 50,000 operational hours. Comparatively, this is 50 times longer than the lifespan of an incandescent bulb and roughly 20-25 times longer than for a halogen bulb. When the LED reaches its limit, it starts emitting a lower illumination that becomes less bright over time. This is very different for the standard bulbs that burn out and stop working.

3. Operate Using Low Voltage

Being low energy-consuming lighting options, the LEDs require little power to operate. As such, they will light up even when powered by a solar system. They do not generate any heat, thus they will not become hot to the touch. And the fact that they do not emit any UV rays makes them perfect for lighting textile and food displays.

95% of the energy directed into lighting LEDs is converted into light meaning only 5% is lost as heat. This makes the LEDs 80% more efficient than conventional lamps such as incandescent and fluorescent bulbs. The LED lights have a lower energy demand; a 36-watt LED will generate the same lighting intensity as would the typical fluorescent 84-watt lamp. The decrease in electricity demand means power plants are not pressured to deliver more energy, and this helps to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

4. Little Maintenance

The long lifespan means that the LEDs do not need frequent replacement compared to their incandescent counterparts. As such, this reduces the need for maintenance and the resource involved for such, especially is large public areas such as the train stations.

5. Environmentally Friendly

The LED technology fully embraces eco-friendly guidelines; as such, these lights do not have any toxic elements. Most of the fluorescents used in office contain harmful chemicals such as mercury that can pollute the environment when disposed of incorrectly. Moreover, such a thing should be done via the recommended channels such as via a registered waste carrier. The use of LEDs is devoid of these things; thus, you can cut down on costs and save time wasted in complying with the disposal protocols.

Furthermore, the LEDs do not emit any UV rays and are 100% recyclable; therefore, the best investment if you are keen on reducing your carbon footprint. To help put things into perspective, one LED lamp can serve you for a period in which you would have used roughly more than 25 incandescent bulbs. That means that you can save on production if you switch to the LEDs.

6. Durability

The LED lights have some of the most rugged components that can withstand the harshest of conditions. They are resistant to shock and vibrations thus less likely to break. Some of the fluorescent bulbs are affected by a drop in the temperatures more so those installed in outdoor spaces. The LED lamps are not susceptible to such climatic changes.

7. Instantaneous Illumination

When you turn on an LED lamp, it lights up immediately and emits the set full range of illumination. That is why these lights are becoming a standard feature in infrastructure projects such as traffic lights and signals. The constant on and off switching of these lights do not impact the longevity and illumination intensity of the LEDs. Such performance is a sharp contrast to the conventional bulbs that drastically lose their operational life when they are repeatedly turned on and off within very short periods.

8. Many Color Options

While white lights are a top preference for many, you also can find the LEDs in an array of colors. Some LED modules even have a mix of colors in one lighting device; these are called RGB modules. They are designed to achieve a broad spectrum of colors when operated.

9. A Compact Solution

The lights can be made to be as small are 2mm. That means that they can be used or fitted in some of the hard to reach places that have limited to no lighting.

10. Assortment Of Design Options

Based on their design and technology, these lights offer flexibility, which means they can be made to conform to any shape for different applications. Moreover, they can also be set up in a controlled system while individual diodes can be dimmed to manage the level of illumination in a given area. With options ranging from color variations and lighting intensity, LEDs suffice to meet different needs and demands. The LEDs can be found in cars, classes, medical rooms, airplanes, and factories.

11. A Better Distribution Of Light

The intensity and clarity of the light that the LEDs emit means that you can focus the light in one direction without having to depend on a reflector. And those with a dimmer function offer greater control. As such, it is possible to manage the amount of light to distribute over a given area.

The Verdict

LEDs are the way of the future. They are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and energy-saving lighting solutions for residential and commercial areas and applications. Therefore, you should make the smart move today and switch to LED bulbs.

If you would like to discover more tips and tricks from Robert Huff Illuminations; visit our blog. Call or contact us today for more information!

Ideal Things To Do To Correctly Investing In Outdoor Lighting In Houston

Posted by Robert Huff on

7 Tips To Help You Get It Right When Investing In Houston Outdoor Lighting

With summer now here with us, you most likely are gearing up to enjoying the great outdoors. Your backyard may become your favorite place to chill in when you are at home or when hosting your friends for lunch or dinner. Therefore, the fun should not stop when the sun sets because you do not have any outdoor lighting.

When investing in the outdoor lights, keep in mind that the lighting options are not created the same. Moreover, setting up the lights involves more than installing them on the walls or hanging string lights from the roof. You should strive to create an elegant ambiance, and this demands that you choose the right lighting fixture.

1. Include These Types

When planning the lighting, you need to account for three basic types: task, ambiance, and accent. That means you need to pick the right kind of lights for each of the three. The task lighting will be the lights you install to illuminate the walkway, deck, driveway, patio, and the security lights. The ambiance lighting will be what you fit on the walls, posts, and string from the roof. As for the accent lighting, you will be working with lights that enhance your landscaping; this can include options such as spotlights.

2. Calculate

Before heading out to buy the outdoor lights, you should know how many fixtures you need and which kind. For this, you will need to get a pen and paper and do some calculations. You will take the square footage of your yard and multiply it by 1.5 to estimate the required total wattage. Therefore, a 100sq. feet area will need 150watts.

3. Make Your Pick In Advance

After doing your calculations and figuring the wattage, you then will focus on the type of lighting fixtures you need. You will take into account their size and installation position before you go to buy them. You will need to draw a template of the layout on paper and use it to determine the placement of each light. For instance, for the patio at the back or the front porch, you will position the wall lights a height that is one-third that of the door.

4. Use LEDs

LEDs that the best investment when it comes to lighting up your backyard. The lights are cost-effective, less energy demanding, and last longer than the incandescent or halogen bulbs. Moreover, LEDs need little to no maintenance.

5. Seek Inspiration Inside Your Home

If you feel lost when figuring out the layout plan for the outdoor lights or what to pick, you can get some idea from inside your house and the arrangement of your outdoor space. Look at the garden and how the pathways flow, consider the size and design of your patio and then image what lighting fixtures will accentuate them. If you are thinking of creating a lit area of your outdoor dinners, then get some inspirations from your dining or living rooms.

6. Use Subtle Light For Entertainment Areas

Bright spotlights will be a distraction to your guests when they are seated enjoying their outdoor meal. As such, you should consider installing lamps with a soft glow. Subtlety is the name of the game when it comes to lighting up the outdoor dining areas, and the lights should be installed to give indirect lighting. Pendants, ceiling fans that have light kits, and lanterns are excellent options worth considering.

7. Think About Security

Lastly, remember that outdoor lighting is not just about enhancing the aesthetics of your yard. They also should help secure your home. Given this, you need fixtures that will ensure that all entry points are well lit. For instance, you can install wall lanterns on either side of the garage and a single lamp above the main door to light up the front porch. You can fit spotlights on the eaves of your roof at selected sides of the house that are in the shadows.

If you would like to discover more tips and tricks from Robert Huff Illuminations; visit our blog. Call or contact us today for more information!