Lighting control is the ability to regulate the level and quality of light in a given space for specific tasks or situations. We all should be seeking multiple light sources for our spaces. This enhances the ambient experience. However, manually and individually operating the lamps, overhead lights, counter lights, and/ or chandelier can, without a doubt, change the mood of our space but just might also be tedious and annoying. Convenience is the primary reason for the consideration of lighting controls. Lighting controls save energy and more importantly time. I recommend lighting controls for everyone no matter how complex or simple your lighting system is.
Tag: Light
Bathroom Light
Lighting in the bathroom must first be safe. Next the lighting should be adequate for the place and up to the task. Vanity lighting is a must. Light in the shower or above the tub may be unnecessary. General and Accent lighting are good additions if space and budget allow.
Load Types and Dimmers
Dimming controls are one of the best ways to change the mood of your space. Changing the way a room feels with lighting control is less inexpensive than changing the decor. Adjust a dimmer and voila new ambiance. When selecting a dimming control we need to match the control with the load type.
LOAD TYPES
Incandescent / Halogen: Line Voltage and Halogen lamps
Magnetic Low-voltage (MLV): Magnetic transformer supplied low-voltage
Electronic Low-voltage (ELV): Electronic transformer supplied low-votage
Neon / Cold Cathode: Magnetic transformer supplied voltage
Fluorescent: Electronic fluorescent dimming ballast
Light Emitting Diode (LED) Electronic LED driver
Before selecting any dimming control be sure to know what type of load you are trying to dim and the wattage of that load. The dimmer must be rated for the type of load and the quantity. As a general rule try not the mix load types.
Lutron has a great article on Dimming Basics
Translucency
Translucency is the physical property of a material which allows light to pass through the material without being scattered. When light encounters a material, it can interact with it in several different ways. This interaction is the most dramatic affect in decorative lighting. The possible combinations of color and opaqueness make glass chandeliers the pinnacle of decorative light fixtures.
Light and Dark
Shadow in the space is just as important to creating ambiance as the lights. The mood in the room is quite different when an over head light is the only source of light compared to the same room with its table lamps as the only source of light. The shadows cast by the table lamps are an integral part of that lighting scene. In effect we have two different moods. Two different scenes. We almost have to different rooms.
Terry Salazar Electric 