pro tips

Lighting Applications

How to Choose LED Recessed Lighting: Complete Guide

Learning how to choose LED recessed lighting starts with understanding the different fixture types, installation options, and applications available. Recessed lighting, also known as downlighting or can lights, is designed to sit flush with the ceiling for a clean, low-profile look. These versatile fixtures can be used in practically any room and are one of the easiest ways to update a residential or commercial space. Today, LED recessed lighting is commonly used in both new construction and LED retrofit applications, with options available for a wide range of ceiling types, layouts, and lighting needs.

Brands

Creating the Ultimate Comfort Zone with RadioRA 3

In our last blog post, we introduced you to Lutron’s newest lighting control system, RadioRA 3 and outlined the key features to expect — a new all-in-one processor powered by PoE (Power over Ethernet), new simpler PC programming software and app-based editing features, and the first-ever line of wall controls with both light bar design and IoT (Internet of Things) connectivity. Now we’ll see what else RadioRA 3 is capable of.

General

Low Voltage Lighting: 12V vs 24V and 3 Things to Check First

Glance around your home and you’ll notice most light fixtures connect directly to the line voltage of your electrical system. Line voltage, also called high voltage or household current, is the standard 120 volts found in outlets and junction boxes in the U.S. Line voltage fixtures cover most traditional lighting, including ceiling fixtures and sconces.

Low voltage lighting runs on far less, typically 12 or 24 volts. It got its start in American homes in the 1950s, developed first for landscape lighting before moving indoors. Today it’s common in recessed lighting, track lighting, under cabinet lighting, strip and tape lighting and more.

General

Basic Rules for LED Closet Lighting

Closet lighting can make a storage space safer, easier to use, and more functional. Whether you’re lighting a small reach-in closet or a large walk-in, the right LED fixtures can improve visibility while helping you account for electrical-code clearance requirements around shelves, clothing, and other stored items. In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of LED closet lighting, including fixture safety, color temperature, motion-sensing options, and design ideas using flush mounts, recessed fixtures, puck lights, and LED tape light. Closet Lighting Safety Codes & NEC Requirements The National Electric Code (NEC), which is published every three years by the National Fire Protection Association, sets the rules and guidelines that apply to building regulations in most commercial and residential spaces, including closets and other storage areas. In the 2008 edition of the code, LED fixtures were allowed for the first time. Since then, modern homes have slowly integrated over to LED…

Lighting Applications

Light Bulb Color Temperature: Best Kelvin for Every Room

Choosing the right light bulb color temperature can completely change how a room looks and feels. Our light bulb color chart makes it easy to compare warm white, soft white, bright white, and daylight LEDs from 2700K through 5000K so you can choose the best color temperature for every room in your home. With so many LED lighting options available, understanding LED color temperature makes it easier to choose the right bulb or fixture for your space. Whether you want a warm, relaxing glow or brighter, cooler light for task areas, the best Kelvin temperature depends on the room, how the lighting will be used, and the atmosphere you want to create. At PROLIGHTING, we make it easier to compare LED bulbs and fixtures and find the right lighting for your application. What is Color Temperature? Most LED lighting products are offered in a variety of color temperatures in varying…

Lighting Applications

A Guide to LED Under Cabinet Lighting

Why Under Cabinet Lighting? Under cabinet lighting is one of the most useful and convenient lighting applications on the market today. As the name suggests, under cabinet lighting refers to light fixtures that are installed most commonly underneath upper wall kitchen cabinets, illuminating the space directly below. These hidden fixtures are able to blend in seamlessly without looking obtrusive or clashing with existing decor. They’re used predominantly in kitchen areas where additional light is useful for reading recipes and preparing food. An under cabinet system will not only improve the brightness and overall look and feel of your space; it’s also one of the easiest ways to increase the resale value of your home. Modern LED under cabinet lights have revolutionized kitchen lighting, offering superior energy efficiency and longer lifespans compared to outdated fluorescent or halogen systems. Whether you choose hardwired under cabinet lighting for a permanent installation or plug in…

General

LED Lighting Terms: 15 Specs to Know Before You Buy

As LEDs continue to reign over incandescent and fluorescent options, it helps to know a handful of LED lighting terms so you can compare products properly and pick the right one for a project. Early LED lighting was mostly commercial, but the technology has shifted substantially into residential too. More consumers are making the switch, realizing that a larger upfront investment pays back over time.

General

0-10V Dimming: How It Works with LED Lighting | PROLIGHTING

What is 0-10V Dimming? 0-10V dimming is a common lighting control method that uses a low-voltage DC control signal to adjust the light output of compatible LED fixtures. In a typical 0-10V LED system, approximately 10 volts represents full light output, while reducing the control voltage dims the fixture toward its minimum light level. The exact minimum dimming level varies by LED driver, and some systems require a separate switch or relay to turn the fixture completely off. Simple, reliable, and widely used in commercial lighting, 0-10V dimming makes it easy to adjust light levels for different activities, environments, and energy-saving strategies. Pairing compatible LED fixtures with a 0-10V dimmer gives you greater control over spaces ranging from offices and warehouses to restaurants and retail environments. Where to Use a 0-10V Dimmer? 0-10V dimming was originally developed for (and is still often used as) a standard method of controlling fluorescent…

Brands

At Home with Lutron

Lutron has been one of our top-selling brands ever since we became a distributor back in 2004. We wanted to celebrate our last 15 years of partnership and recognize them as one of our favorite brands, by paying homage to them here. And to further commemorate, we recently dropped by their New York Residential Experience Center, located in the heart of East Midtown’s interior design district, to check out the latest products from the lighting control experts. This area of Manhattan is home to over 100 independent design showrooms, with Lutron nestled in among other luxury interior design and decorative arts brands. Walking in, we’re reminded why Lutron really is the best of the best. The space is beyond gorgeous, and mimics a posh New York City apartment equipped with a variety of Lutron products that incorporate innovative smart-home technology. An immersive experience of shade and lighting control follows; one that makes us want to pack our bags and take up residence.

Products

Lutron Maestro Overview

The Maestro occupancy/vacancy sensors that are available take your energy conservation capabilities to the next level. With all the components that go into making a house your home, Lutron lighting control and dimming performance is not usually something a homeowner immediately thinks about. However, cost of living and budgeting is. Focusing your attention on energy savings can reduce spendings a significant amount as well as allow you the opportunity to implement more customization and take the first few steps towards making your home a smarter one. Lutron has been a leader in lighting control innovation for over 50 years. Their most eco-friendly line, Lutron Maestro, is the perfect fit for any house. The Maestro line has a stylish and sleek design available in over 20 different color finishes. Maestro System Overview (Click to enlarge) Dimmers and Switches No matter the type of bulbs you have in your home chances are…