How to Save Money By Installing Your Own Commercial Lighting System

Installing your own commercial lighting system can seem daunting, but it can save your business a lot of money in the long run. With some planning and basic electrical skills, you can safely and successfully install new lighting in your commercial space.

Assessing Your Lighting Needs

The first step is to assess your lighting needs.

• What type of activities occur in the space? This will determine what type of lighting you need. For example, retail spaces need bright, uniform lighting to showcase products, while warehouses just need basic lighting for employees to see.

• How large is the area that needs lighting? Measure the square footage and ceiling height to determine how many fixtures and what strength bulbs you will need.

• What is the layout? Note any areas that have higher lighting needs, like hallways, work spaces, or feature walls. Also note existing wiring locations that fixtures can connect to.

Once you know your lighting requirements, you can determine the types of commercial fixtures and bulbs needed.

Choosing Fixtures and Bulbs

Some key factors to consider when selecting commercial lighting include:

Fixtures

• Ceiling or wall mounted - Most commercial spaces use ceiling lights, but you may also want wall sconces or hanging pendant lights over specific areas.
• Materials - Plastic and acrylic are inexpensive but less durable options. Go for metal or steel fixtures in busy public areas.
• Covers - Diffuser panels soften harsh light and protect bulbs. Clear or frosted covers also influence light quality.
• Housing - Wraparound housings direct more light downward, maximizing illumination.

Bulbs

• Fluorescent vs LED - LED bulbs last longer and are more energy efficient. Fluorescent is cheaper upfront but requires more maintenance.
• Lumens - A measure of total light output. Higher is brighter.
• Color temperature - Measured in Kelvins. Lower numbers like 3000K are warmer yellow light. Higher numbers like 5000K are cooler blue-white light.
• Beam angle - Narrow spotlights or wide floodlights. Combining both works well.

Get samples and test different fixtures and bulbs together before purchasing everything to ensure you get the desired ambiance.

Planning the Installation

Careful planning makes the installation process go smoothly.

• Acquire any necessary permits for electrical work from your city.

• If possible, schedule installation when the space is unoccupied to avoid disrupting business.

• Turn off power at the breaker before doing any work.

• Take detailed measurements for accurate fixture placement and wiring. Draw up plans showing exact fixture locations.

• Order all necessary components like lights, covers, mounting hardware, conduits, wiring, and junction boxes. Having everything on hand will make installation faster.

• Install new junction boxes if you need more connection points for fixtures. Run any additional needed wiring through conduits.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Follow these key steps to safely install your new commercial lighting:

1. Mount Fixtures

Use the detailed plans to mark exact installation points on the ceiling or walls. Follow individual fixture instructions for mounting each base securely.

2. Connect Wiring

Run wires from junction boxes through conduit to each fixture base. Connect the wires from the fixtures to the incoming power wires using wire nuts. Ensure all connections are tight and secure.

3. Install Bulbs and Covers

Put in the type of bulbs needed for each fixture. Attach any diffuser panels, lenses or other covers. Screw them in securely.

4. Turn Power Back On

Flip the breaker back on. Check that all fixtures are illuminated and functioning. Make any final adjustments if needed.

5. Configure Dimming and Controls

Program any lighting control systems and dimmers according to your needs. Group fixtures into zones and test functionality.

And that's it! Taking a methodical approach to planning and installation will get your new commercial lighting up and running smoothly. Just be sure to follow all electrical safety guidelines, get help if needed, and take time to do it right. The energy savings and great lighting will make the effort worthwhile. Let me know if you have any other questions!