Categories Commercial, Lighting, Residential

The Transformative Power of Proper Lighting in Residential and Commercial Spaces

Here at Turn It On Electric, we understand the importance of lighting in our day-to-day lives, though it’s a key element that often gets overlooked. Not only is proper illumination necessary to operate safely and efficiently, but it can also be vital in setting the tone, atmosphere, and environment of a space.

Just imagine, you’re walking down a long and empty corridor. The corridor is dark, sparsely lit by only a few can lights, and the shadows stretch long and menacingly towards you. The wall-to-floor windows that line the walkway are blackened mirrors, reflecting only the outer night sky and your darkened figure in their panes. Spooky, right? Now, imagine the same space again, though this time brightly lit, the walkway bathed in a warm and inviting luminance. Now, your gaze can take in the décor, the space’s carefully crafted and designed layout reflecting brightly in the window panes. Outside, complimenting landscape lights shining on carefully manicured shrubs. It’s a stark comparison to make, but accurate. Let’s delve deeper into the importance of lighting.

Why Lighting Matters More Than You Think

Lighting isn’t just about making sure you can see where you’re going—it’s about creating a space that feels comfortable, functional, and alive. Whether it’s the warm glow in your living room that makes it the perfect place to relax, or the bright, focused light in your kitchen that helps you chop vegetables safely, lighting plays a critical role in how we experience our surroundings.

Beyond just visibility, lighting affects our mood, productivity, and even our health. Dim, poorly lit spaces can feel depressing and make us sluggish, while bright, well-lit areas can energize us and make tasks easier to complete. In commercial environments, this becomes even more critical—poor lighting can hinder employee performance, reduce safety, and make spaces feel less inviting.

Residential Lighting: Setting the Right Mood

In our homes, lighting is one of the most powerful tools we have to set the mood and create a welcoming atmosphere. The right lighting can turn a dull room into a cozy retreat, or make a small space feel open and airy. For instance, soft, warm lights are perfect for creating a relaxing ambiance in a bedroom or living room, while bright, white lights are ideal for kitchens and bathrooms where clarity and cleanliness are key.

Think about the way lighting affects your daily routine—whether it’s the gentle glow of a bedside lamp helping you unwind at night, or the morning sunlight streaming through the kitchen window as you brew your first cup of coffee. Each light source plays a role in shaping your experience of home.

The Importance of Good Lighting in Commercial Spaces

Lighting in commercial spaces isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating an environment where work can be done efficiently and safely. Poor lighting can lead to a host of issues, from reduced productivity to increased safety hazards. Imagine trying to perform intricate tasks or operate machinery in a dimly lit environment; it’s not just inconvenient, it’s dangerous.

Moreover, lighting influences the mood and morale of employees. A poorly lit office or workspace can make the environment feel drab and uninspiring, which can negatively impact employee motivation and overall well-being. On the other hand, well-lit spaces can foster a positive atmosphere, making employees feel more energized and engaged in their work.

The Initial State: A Dim and Dull Workspace

Take, for instance, the case of a commercial property that recently came to us for a lighting renovation. The workspace, as shown in the before photo, was dim and dull, with insufficient lighting that left many areas poorly illuminated.

The Process

When Turn It On Electric was called in, we knew this space needed a lighting overhaul. We carefully assessed the workspace, taking into account the types of tasks being performed and the areas that needed better illumination. Our team installed a number of bright overhead lights, ensuring that every corner of the space was well-lit. See below the after photo.

The Impact: A Bright and Productive Environment

The transformation was immediate and dramatic. The after photo shows a workspace that is bright and welcoming. Employees could now see and clean areas that had previously been in shadow and hidden. More importantly, the overall mood in the office shifted—employees reported feeling more positive and having a new sense of camaraderie in the newly illuminated space. It was clear that the improved lighting had a profound effect, not just on the physical environment, but on the people working within it.

How to Know If Your Space Needs a Lighting Upgrade

If you’re wondering whether your home or business could benefit from better lighting, there are a few signs to look out for. Are there areas in your space that always seem dark or shadowy? Do you find it hard to focus or feel motivated in certain rooms? Have your utility bills been higher than expected? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it might be time to consider a lighting upgrade.

Upgrading your lighting can lead to numerous benefits, from improved visibility and safety to increased energy efficiency and a more pleasant atmosphere. Whether it’s installing brighter lights in your office or adding a few extra lamps to your living room, the right lighting can make all the difference.

Choosing the Right Lighting: What to Consider

When it comes to selecting the right lighting for your space, there are a few key factors to consider. First, think about the purpose of the room. Is it a place where you need bright, focused light for tasks, like a kitchen or an office? Or is it a space where you want to create a relaxing, cozy atmosphere, like a bedroom or living room? The type of lighting you choose should match the function of the space.

Next, consider energy efficiency. Modern LED lights are not only brighter but also consume less energy, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice. Not only do energy-efficient lights last longer, but they also emit less heat, which can help reduce cooling costs in the warmer months. Finally, think about the design and placement of your lighting. The right fixtures and placement can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space while providing the illumination you need.

How Turn It On Electric Can Help

At Turn It On Electric, we specialize in helping both residential and commercial clients achieve the perfect lighting for their spaces. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your home or overhaul the lighting in your office, our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way. From consultation to installation, we ensure that your lighting is not only functional and efficient but also beautifully designed to enhance your environment.

Good lighting has the power to transform any space, making it more functional, inviting, and energy-efficient. Whether you’re dealing with dim lighting in your home or a commercial space that needs a brighter environment, Turn It On Electric is here to help. Let us bring our expertise to your lighting project, and experience the difference that proper lighting can make. Give us a call today!

Interested in seeing more clips/images of our work other than our gallery page?

Categories Lighting

LED Lights Versus ‘Regular’ Light Bulbs

LED lights

You can buy an incandescent lightbulb for under a dollar. LED lights cost more upfront. But the energy efficiency and money-savings are huge. LED lights appeal to everyone.

Those concerned with planet preservation and conserving energy appreciate the amazing energy efficiency of LEDs vs. traditional lightbulbs. There are also people who could care less about global energy use, fossil fuels, and carbon footprints. But they care about saving money.

LEDs reduce the increasing demand for electric energy. Therefore, monthly electric bills are much less when you upgrade regular bulbs to LED lights.

LED Lights Cost Less

A “regular” lightbulb (60 watts) will last up to 1,000 hours* (at the most). You’ll need to buy 35 lightbulbs ($35) over a 4-year timespan. Four years is about the least amount of time an LED light (6 watts) will last.

Your time is also money. Compare the cost of purchasing one LED light ($5) vs. 35 regular lightbulbs ($35). If you factor in the time and expense you’ll put into buying 35 lightbulbs (even if you shop at Costco), you’ll quickly understand how LEDs save money and time.

LED Lighting: The Historical Difference

Texas Instruments technology developers invented an infrared light in 1961 but it was too small to be useful. In 1962, General Electric’s Nick Holonyak, Jr. (Father of the Light-Emitting Diode) invented the first LED that emitted significant light. In 1972, George Craford of Monsanto developed a brighter LED that led to the lighting now used worldwide.

LEDs are evolving technologically faster than any light source ever. They have improved in performance and become more affordable.

Traditional light bulbs are:

  • CFL – Compact fluorescent lamps are tube-like lights used in many workplaces. CFLs contain argon gas and traces of mercury. An electric current passing through the tube creates ultraviolet light. CFLs are more energy-efficient and last longer than incandescent and halogen bulbs.
  • Halogen – These are brighter than traditional incandescents because the tungsten filament is encased in an inert-gas-filled frame to burn brighter and longer.
  • Incandescent – Glass bulbs encase a tungsten filament that is heated by electricity. They aren’t energy-efficient, don’t last very long, and emit a lot of heat.

If you’ve ever burned your fingertips changing a “hot” lightbulb (never a good idea, but most of us have done it), you can appreciate how cool LED lights are.

  • LED – Electricity flows through a microchip (light-emitting diode). Cool-to-the-touch LEDs are the new standard in U.S. lighting.

TIO Electric Professionals Set the Standard for Quality Electrical Solutions

LEDs have come a long way in a short period of time.
inspirecleanenergy.com

Another way to say “efficient” is “good organization.” Our company is a lot like LED lights. Turn It On Electric technology and productivity has grown annually since its founding 12 years ago. Our quality is much better than competitors. And like LEDs, we’re energy-efficiency experts that offer a wide range of services.

If LED lights could be passionate about doing a great job, they’d be a lot like TIO Electric.

Ask us about ways to save energy and lower electric bills. Call TIO Electric or contact us online.

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*All numbers are estimates.

Categories Lighting

6 Places To Use LED Lighting in the Home

LED Lighting

The light-emitting diode (LED) is today’s most energy-efficient and rapidly developing lighting technology. Quality LED lightbulbs last longer, are more durable and offer comparable or better light quality than other types of lighting.
energy.gov

The advantages of LED lighting are without dispute. LED lighting delivers quality illumination 40-50 times longer than incandescent lightbulbs. This means replacement LED lightbulbs can last anywhere from 5-10 years or longer. They’ll improve energy efficiency by as much as 50%-90%, depending on the types of bulbs you replaced.

Other differences between LED and incandescent bulbs include:

  • Incandescent bulbs need lampshades and fixtures to deflect lighting. Sometimes half the light emitted never leaves its source. LED lighting is more directional. (Task lighting is more effective with LEDs than incandescent.)
  • Incandescent bulbs release 90% of their energy as heat, while LEDs are much cooler (and safer).
  • LEDs last much longer.

Home LED Lighting

Upgrading your home to LED lighting is a fun family project. You can educate youngsters by sharing ways to save energy and lower expenses. Whole-house LED lighting is also a good investment.

Carefully wrap discarded bulbs before placing them in trashbags. (Most Lowe’s and Home Depot stores accept lightbulbs for recycling, but call before you go.)

LED light upgrades are perfect for:

  1. Bathrooms – Lighting can be bright and functional for facial cleaning and makeup applications or appealing and mood-setting for relaxing tub soaks.
    • Linen closets
    • Mirrors
  2. Bedrooms – Set the tone for relaxation with LED accent lights, lamps, and reading lights. You can also use LED lights to illuminate focal points with flair.
    • Closets
    • Under the bed
  3. Kitchens – The most high-traffic room in the house needs a lot of light.
    • Under lower cabinets near floor
    • Under upper cabinets to illuminate workspace/countertops/sink
  4. Living rooms – This area’s lighting helps entertain visitors or enhances relaxation at day’s end.
    • Behind big-screen televisions (Multicolors are popular.)
    • Downlighting above photos/art exhibits
    • Uplighting underneath display shelving
  5. Porches – All-night lights will last years when LED bulbs are used.
  6. Stairways – Attractive lighting can also add safety.

What are LED Light Strips & Ropes?

LED light strips are several surface-mounted LED lights or “chips” affixed to a tape. They can illuminate a wider area and are usually brighter than LED ropes. They are also dimmable and you can change the colors.

LED ropes are small bulbs encased in plastic tubes. You can buy multicolored or specific bulb-color ropes, but you can’t change the bulbs. Rope lights aren’t much dimmer than tape lights, but if brightness is needed for a work area, go with tape LED lights.

Commercial, Industrial LED Lighting

You’re familiar with residential LED lighting. Commercial and industrial LED lights are usually not the same as residential. These low-maintenance and long-lasting lights are also more temperature-friendly for areas in which high heat is an issue.

Commercial LED lighting is designed for:

  • Hotels
  • Offices
  • Public outdoor areas
  • Restaurants
  • Retail stores
  • …and more

Industrial lighting is more durably designed to illuminate tougher workspaces. These lights are usually located on ceilings higher than 20´, including:

  • Chemicals/hazardous materials’ manufacturing/storage
  • Fixed/in-place heavy machinery/equipment
  • Mines
  • Production/factory facilities
  • Refineries
  • …and more

Central Arizona’s Electrical Contractor

If you’re planning a spring or summer home project, Turn It On Electric professionals may have some illuminating ideas (pun intended). Effective lighting can make a good project great.

We’re also available to discuss the best locations and voltage for lighting additions and upgrades. We will work with other contractors to deliver your project on time and within budget.

To learn more about ways to use LED lighting in your home or office, contact TIO Electric.


Categories Electrical Wiring, Lighting, Residential

What Causes Dimming and Flickering Lights?

Flickering lights

Flickering lights are a staple in horror stories and every ghost movie. “Whether it’s a movie cliche or in real life, there’s a reason why movies use flickering lights,” says one electrical professional. Flickering lights make us feel uncomfortable; even tense. “The real-life effects of light flicker can range from annoyance, distraction and discomfort, to headaches and even seizures,” he concluded.

Invisible Flickering Lights

Most homes are wired for alternating current (AC). AC can switch power back and forth, while DC (direct current) flows in one direction. DC lighting is sometimes called “low-voltage” lighting. The fact is, flickering lights occur in most artificial light sources.

AC wiring is simply more energy efficient.

In 2017, NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) established light-flicker guidelines. LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs have reduced light bulb flickers, but they can also flicker in a way we don’t see. This can impact productivity in offices and commercial businesses as well as negatively affect our health.

When You See Lights Dim and Flicker

Never ignore the dangers posed by dimming and/or flickering lights. They can cause shocks, electrocution, burns, or other injuries. When lights flicker, there might be sparking that could cause a catastrophic house fire.

You’ll create an even bigger problem if you try to solve a flickering lights problem yourself. If there’s electrical damage resulting from a DIY (do-it-yourself) wiring fix, your insurance may not cover the expenses for loss and damages.

If you have dimming or flickering lights, make note of:

  • Appearance – Is it barely noticeable or extremely annoying?
  • Consistency – Does it occur every time you plug in one particular appliance or happen occasionally with any appliance?
  • Frequency – Has it happened once or does it often occur?

Here are 4 reasons your lights may dim or flicker:

  1. Fluorescent bulbs – These will naturally flicker when “warming up.”
  2. Loose bulbs – Flickering lights occur because of inconsistent electrical flow. This is a DIY fix. First, wait for the light bulb to cool, then check to ensure it’s tightly fitted into the socket.
  3. Loose prongs – Sometimes the prongs are bent on an appliance’s plug-in. Unplug and try to straighten the prong(s).
  4. Wrong bulb – If light fixture manufacturers recommend a particular type of light bulb, follow those recommendations. (Light flickers can also occur when the wrong bulb is used with a light-dimmer fixture.)

Call your local Phoenix electrician if you see lights dim or flicker in your home or business. Causes can include:

  1. Electrical panel problems – Your home’s circuit breaker is the most important safety device you have. If you suspect malfunctions, request service immediately.
  2. Outdated/loose wiring – Seventy percent of home fires are caused by bad wiring. An electrical wiring inspection is a good idea, especially if you have an older home.
  3. Overloaded circuit – If flickering happens often or lasts longer than a few seconds, it can be an electrical emergency.
  4. Too-high voltage – If light bulbs don’t last as long as they should, that may be a clue your home’s voltage is too high or fluctuating. In addition to light dims and flickers, signs you have voltage issues can include:
    • Appliances keep tripping off.
    • Flickering/dimming continues after the appliance is turned off.
    • Flickering/dimming happens only when large appliances are turned on.
    • Light bulbs dim/flicker randomly.
  5. Utility problem – If you’re not overusing electricity but several neighbors are, this can cause transformer problems. After your electric company restores service, you may need an electrical inspection to ensure no damage occurred at your end.

Safety First: TIO Electric

Our team of electrical professionals is dedicated to home and family safety for our Valley neighbors. If you experience dimming or flickering lights and are concerned that you may have a problem, we’re ready to answer your questions. Contact Turn It On Electric.

Categories Lighting, Outdoor, Safety

Halloween Light Safety: 7 Tips

Halloween light safety

The kids in our community are our most valuable treasures. It’s fun to dedicate one evening every year to treat them. You’ll tell each child he or she is the scariest (pirate, ghost, monster) you’ve ever seen and drop sweet eats into their bags.

You may say, “Have fun!” or if you’re a parent, “Be careful!” as they run down your sidewalk toward the street. But actions speak louder than words. Make Halloween light safety a priority for visiting trick-or-treaters this year. Here’s how.

Increasing Halloween Light Safety

Sunset in your neighborhood will be around 5:37 p.m. October 31, 2022. But trick-or-treaters’ vision may be costume-compromised even before dark: Facial masks, hats, sheets, wigs, and other costume accessories can slip and slide over the eyes. To increase visibility, make sure your outdoor timed lights are operating before sundown.

Here are 7 tips for increasing Halloween light safety so smaller ghosts and goblins can securely navigate to and from your door.

  1. Avoid candles – The flickering glow of a lighted pumpkin adds to the drama of All Hallows’ Eve. And those trendy paper-sack lanterns? Both are hazards waiting to happen. The risk isn’t worth it. You can put LED faux candles inside pumpkins (and sacks, for that matter).
  2. Brighten your bulbs – This is not the night to rely on a subtle glow or tasteful accent lighting. If you can safely switch your outdoor lightbulbs for higher-wattage bulbs, do so.
  3. Child-proof your traffic areas – It’s a good idea to inspect your pathways for potential dangers. A wobbly gate opening can be tightened, and you can put friction tape on front porch steps that get slick when wet. Relocate anything that could cause tripping or falls.
    If you haven’t yet, consider a professional landscape and/or sidewalk lighting installation. It is attractive but can also add Halloween light safety and increase property value.
  4. Deter vandalism – Halloween is also a big night for mischief-makers and vandals. After you’ve shut your front door and turned off your indoor lights, be sure your outdoor motion detector lights are activated.
  5. Ensure grounding – Your decorative light strings or fixtures must be plugged into a grounded outlet. If you aren’t sure, simply ask us to quickly inspect for peace of mind.
  6. Look for UL®-compliant labels – When it comes to Halloween light safety, sometimes you get more than you paid for: more risk. Inexpensive decorative outdoor lights may be manufactured out of country and sold online. All decorative lighting should have the Underwriters Laboratories certification. It’s easy to Photoshop®, so verify the logo and information if you’re unsure.
  7. Open your storm door – If your entrance has a front door and a storm door, prop the storm door open. When you’re handing out candy, the storm door can slam on small hands or impede their movements. Prop it open and secure it. Consider adding yellow lights, a spotlight, or glow-in-the-dark caution tape to ensure kids can see it and avoid it.

TIO Electric: When You Need Fast Service

The record for the fastest pumpkin carving was set in 2013 by a New York teen. He completed the requirements (eyes, nose, mouth, and ears) in 16.47 seconds.

For fast service (just not that fast), add our phone number in your contacts under “E” for “electrician.” 

If you have any questions, contact Turn It On Electric.