Since 1988, Kingfisher Lighting have worked on many projects nationwide and along the way we’ve encountered the good, the bad and the ugly of lighting schemes. As a result, we've compiled useful information that guides you through common lighting mistakes and more importantly, how to avoid them.

False Economy

Many contractors go for the cheaper option when selecting luminaires. However, ‘cheap’ more often than not means lower quality, which in terms of fittings, can be far less effective and have limited optical packages, therefore have poorer performance and efficiency. Reduced performance means an increase in the overall number of fittings needed to achieve accurate results. Additionally, low-cost options typically have shorter lifespan, increasing the likelihood of replacements being needed sooner.  

Choosing higher-quality options will ensure your luminaire gives a better output for longer, giving you much more bang for your buck. Kingfisher only use tier one components when manufacturing our luminaires to ensure maximum spacings, versatility and a long-life span.

Meeting Industry Standards

With developments in technology, environmental consideration and legislative changes it can be difficult to keep track of the most up to date standards and guidance.

By not adhering to guidance notes and standards set out for the industry, it is very difficult to get through the planning stage of any project, and contractors will stand to have luminaire choices rejected.

As contributing members of the ILP and LIA, we are always fully up to date on industry standards, therefore our teams are best placed to guide you through the ins and out of the planning stage.

HID to LED

With guidelines on energy efficiency and the impact on the environmental becoming increasingly restrictive, it is important to know how to move your site forward towards a brighter and cleaner future. A few years ago, we saw the ban of the halogen lamp and across the next couple years it looks like florescent lamps will follow suit, in a bid to tackle climate change.

Upgrading to LED can seem complicated, with conversions and output comparisons to take into account. It is important to know not all luminaires will be a direct match and there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution.

One of the most common mistakes we witness is the comparison of ‘wattage’ rather than ‘lumen’ outputs between luminaires. This is because if it a wattage is higher, it doesn’t necessarily mean the illumination will be brighter, making a big difference for lighting applications.

The Kingfisher Technical and Lighting Design Teams are experts in LED conversions and can calculate the exact lumen packages you need to effectively light your projects, taking into consideration all relevant factors and producing detailed ROI and energy saving reports

Additional Site Requirements

When planning any scheme, you must ensure the specification is met in terms of how versatile your system needs to be. This makes certain additional options are accounted for including emergency, photocell, part night dimming and controls, to name but a few. It is important to focus on additional requirements to prevent further work down the line and protect your warranty.

We offer many of our products with variable features which can be programmed before they reach site including Kingfisher Controls. This model allows for shorter installation times that meet your specification.

To conclude, you must pay meticulous attention when planning any lighting scheme for either new or replacement luminaires.

• Cheaper is not always best! Consider the end results before committing to cheap fittings
• Work with companies who can help you keep up to date with the latest industry guidance
• Get expert advice of HID conversions and make sure you compare lumens not wattage
• Check all site requirements to avoid invalidating your warranty

If you need assistance in perfecting your scheme, contact our experts on 01623 415900.

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