Installing commercial lighting can be an expensive endeavor, but with some planning and cost-saving measures, you can install quality lighting in your commercial space on a limited budget. Here are some tips for installing commercial lighting affordably.
Assess Your Lighting Needs
Before doing anything else, take the time to assess your lighting needs. Consider the following:
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What types of tasks will be performed in the space? Are detailed, visual tasks involved or general activities? Different lighting levels are recommended depending on the tasks.
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How large is the area to be lit? Larger spaces often require higher lighting levels.
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Calculate the square footage and ceiling height to determine how much lighting is needed.
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Note which areas need to be accentuated, such as sales counters or merchandise displays.
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Decide if you need lighting controls like dimmers or occupancy sensors in certain areas.
Choose Energy-Efficient Fixtures
Selecting energy-efficient LED lighting is one of the best ways to save on commercial lighting. LEDs consume 40-80% less power than traditional lighting and have long lifespans of 50,000+ hours. This saves on energy and replacement costs over time.
Consider installling LED tubes to replace existing fluorescent tubes. They provide the same brightness using a fraction of the energy and fit into most existing fixtures.
LED panels also offer energy savings for ambient lighting needs. Compare wattages and lumens when choosing LEDs to ensure adequate light levels.
Take Advantage of Rebates and Tax Incentives
Many utility companies and state/federal agencies offer rebates and tax incentives for installing energy-efficient lighting like LEDs. These can cover 25-50% of equipment costs. The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency lists available incentives in your state.
Shop Secondhand and Salvage Materials
Check architectural salvage warehouses, habitat for humanity Restore locations, and used restaurant supply stores to find discounted secondhand lighting fixtures to repurpose. Vintage fixtures can add character while saving you money.
You may also be able to salvage lighting from a previous space or renovation project to reuse. Just be sure to upgrade bulbs for better efficiency.
Use Lower-Cost Fixtures and Bulbs
Focusing lighting on the most essential areas can allow you to reduce costs by using lower priced fixtures and bulbs in other areas:
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Use basic shop light fixtures with LED tubes in utility areas like restrooms or storage rooms.
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Choose fixtures with easily replaceable LED panel lights instead of integrated LEDs to allow for cheaper bulb replacement.
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Use LED A-lamps bulbs in existing fixtures instead of replacing the entire fixture.
Install Fixtures Yourself
Hiring an electrician is often one of the major lighting installation costs. If you are comfortable working with electrical, consider installing lighting fixtures yourself following all safety precautions. This will involve getting the necessary permits.
Of course, some complex installs like track lighting may still require hiring an electrician. But you can likely handle basic fixture replacements and new installations in finished spaces on your own.
Summary
The bottom line in lighting your commercial space affordably is focusing light where it's needed most. Assessing your needs, using energy-efficient technology, taking advantage of incentives, sourcing discounted fixtures, and DIY installing can potentially cut your lighting costs in half while still achieving quality illumination. With smart planning and resourcefulness, you can install great lighting on any budget.