Call or Text: +1(208)639-0473

Author: Aaron Raufman

  • Electric Vehicle Charging

    EV Ready

    It goes without saying that electric vehicles are increasing in popularity for a number of reasons. Whether you’ve recently bought an EV or are considering the additional costs of ownership, the purchase of “electric vehicle supply equipment” (EVSE, or commonly referred to as a car charger or charging station) will be necessary to fully enjoy your new car. EVSE’s come in a variety of shapes, designs and with a number of different features. When buying a new EV, your dealer will often include a recommended EVSE with the sale of the vehicle. Other times you just need an additional EVSE out of convenience. Many homeowners looking to sell are also noticing that adding a dedicated EVSE circuit will increase the appeal to buyers, even if they don’t own an EV themselves.

    No matter your situation, Lighting on Demand will help you ensure your home is EV ready.

    Why do I need an Electrician?

    All electric vehicles require a considerable amount of power to charge in any reasonable time. There are two common types of EVSE’s:

    Level 1: This 120-volt, 2400W (max) charging system will provide up to 5 miles of range per hour of charge, at best. A level 1 charging system utilizes a standard grounded outlet and can usually be plugged into the nearest receptacle. This system is also relatively compact and reasonable enough to keep in the trunk of you EV, just in case. But you wouldn’t want to rely on this system to maintain your vehicles’ charge.

    Level 2: These are 240-volt with adjustable wattage control providing charging around 32 miles of range per hour of charge. These systems strike the ideal balance of charge rate to maximize your EV battery’s lifespan. They require a dedicated circuit, typically 50A or 60A. It is especially important that a circuit of this capacity is installed properly as the higher power will carry greater risk of damage or even fire.

    To ensure your new EVSE is installed properly, hire the professionals at Lighting on Demand.

    industry charging vehicle technology

    Lighting on Demand is your EV charging solution provider

    You know that “Qualified Technician” that your installation instructions say to use?

    → That’s Us.

    Pay over time

    Take the edge off of your new investment by spreading out the payment over time. Financing options range from “pay in four” to 12 months with no interest, subject to credit approval.

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    a person using a calculator

    Working within your budget

    Lighting on Demand is committed to providing the service you need within your budget. Our technicians will provide the ultimate transparency on-site and work with you to cater our service based on your budget.

    Ready to Hire Lighting on Demand?

    Get the conversation started today! Call or text us at 208-639-0473 or send an email to scheduling@lightingondemand.com.

    You can also use our online estimating tool to get a quote right now!

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  • Small Business Lighting

    Lighting on Demand participates with Idaho Power to provide qualified small businesses with high-value, high-efficiency lighting conversions.

    Does your business qualify?

    If your business received a letter from Idaho Power with a notice of this program, chances are, you qualify! Your business must meet the following simple criteria in order to receive the SBL discount:

    1. Must not have claimed an energy incentive from Idaho Power in the past.
    2. Must not use more than 50KWh.
    3. Have non-LED fixtures currently installed, to be replaced.
    4. Have an interest in saving energy costs and improving lighting!

    If your business doesn’t qualify for the Idaho Power SBL incentive, that doesn’t mean we can’t help you save. As a Trade Ally, Lighting on Demand can help determine if your conversion project qualifies for other Idaho Power incentives as well as product specific value-engineering opportunities.

    How much can we save?

    The incentive for the Idaho Power SBL program is set at $0.40 per KWh saved by converting to high-efficiency LED lighting. The total discount you receive will be based on your specific installation; the more lights you have, the more you’ll save!

    In addition to the one-time discount that’ll help cover the conversion cost, your business will be saving in the long run as well by permanently reducing energy usage and having maintenance-free, long-life light fixtures installed.

    Thanks to the Idaho Power SBL incentive, many businesses will see the cost to convert to LED pay for itself within one year!

    How does it work?

    1. Reach out to Lighting on Demand to schedule your Idaho Power SBL assessment.
    2. Upon completion of your assessment, we’ll provide a quotation with the incentive discount, expected future savings and details about your project.
    3. Upon approval, Lighting on Demand will schedule your conversion at a time that’s convenient for your business’s operations.
    4. Upon completion, Lighting on Demand will send the invoice and warranty information for your installed lighting.

    Throughout your conversion project, your business will receive the same non-compromising level of product and professionalism from Lighting on Demand as we give any customer.

  • Affordability of Electrical Service

    While chatting with so many clients, I’m always so surprised to hear about their experience with other electricians and trades in the valley.

    It seems that there is a common and unfortunate theme among many “skilled” workers to gouge their customers on price while simultaneously providing substandard service, at least in my opinion.

    In my direct experience working with other electrical contractors, I know how much overhead can be lost with excessive shrink, poor planning or communication, and lack of policy and procedure.

    While I don’t doubt the concern of under-valuing yourself and the local market, I also feel that expecting your customers to pay for your inefficiency is not a sustainable approach.

    These are uncertain times and my goal is to build a successful business on a foundation of honest value.

    If you’ve been holding off on your electrical needs or hesitant to deal with a local electrician, give us a call and we’ll put your worries to rest.

  • Decorative v. Practical

    Preface

    Light fixtures do not need to fit into a decorative or practical category, rather, considering to what extent a fixture is decorative and to what extent it might be practical is highly subjective. It is important, however, to take both aspects into consideration when choosing lighting.

    Practical and decorative lighting play distinct roles in a space, each contributing to the overall functionality and ambiance.

    Practical Lighting

    Practical lighting is essential for providing sufficient illumination for activities like reading, cooking, or working. It tends to be brighter and more focused, ensuring clear visibility where needed most. Commonly found in workspaces, kitchens, and bathrooms, practical lighting fixtures include desk lamps, pendant lights, and under-cabinet lighting. The color temperature of practical lighting is often on the cooler side, around 4000K to 6000K, promoting alertness and concentration.

    Further Reading

    THE PSYCHOLOGY OF COLOR TEMPERATURE

    Decorative Lighting

    Decorative lighting, on the other hand, is primarily used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a room, create ambiance, or highlight specific architectural features and decor. It usually emits a softer, more diffused light, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Decorative lighting is typically found in living rooms, dining areas, and bedrooms, using fixtures like chandeliers, wall sconces, and decorative lamps. The color temperature is generally warmer, around 2700K to 3000K, which fosters a cozy environment.

    Overlap and Integration

    In well-designed spaces, practical and decorative lighting often overlap and complement each other. For instance, a living room might feature overhead practical lighting for general illumination, along with table lamps for task lighting and accent lights to highlight artwork or architectural features. The use of dimmers allows practical lighting to take on a decorative role by adjusting the brightness to suit different moods. Additionally, some fixtures serve dual purposes, such as a chandelier that acts both as a statement piece and a source of ambient light.

    Achieving Balance

    When balancing practical and decorative lighting, consider the primary function of the space. A kitchen typically requires more practical lighting, while a living room might emphasize decorative elements. Energy efficiency is also a key consideration, with LED lights commonly used for both practical and decorative purposes due to their versatility. Smart lighting systems offer customization, allowing you to switch between practical and decorative lighting modes by adjusting brightness or color.

    By thoughtfully integrating practical and decorative lighting, you can create spaces that are both functional and visually appealing, tailored to the specific needs and moods of each room.

  • The Psychology of Color Temperature

    The psychology of color temperature delves into how varying colors, which are measured in degrees Kelvin, impact human emotions, behaviors, and perceptions. Color temperature is typically categorized into warm, neutral, and cool ranges, each evoking distinct psychological responses that can significantly influence how people feel and act in different environments.

    Lighting on Demand color temperature gradient

    Further Reading

    WHAT IS COLOR TEMPERATURE?

    Warm colors, ranging from about 1,000K to 3,000K, include hues like red, orange, and yellow. These colors are often associated with warmth, comfort, and a sense of coziness. The psychological effects of warm colors are profound; they create an inviting atmosphere that can make people feel relaxed and at ease. This is why warm lighting is commonly found in living spaces, dining areas, and hospitality settings where creating a welcoming and intimate environment is desired. The warmth of these colors can evoke feelings of happiness, nostalgia, and even social connectivity, encouraging conversation and interaction in a relaxed setting.

    In contrast, neutral color temperatures, which range from approximately 3,000K to 5,000K, offer a balance between warmth and coolness. Neutral light is typically seen as clear and natural, closely resembling daylight. This type of lighting is prevalent in workspaces, offices, and study areas where clarity and focus are essential. The psychological impact of neutral light lies in its ability to support productivity without overwhelming the senses. It creates an environment where people can concentrate and remain attentive, reducing eye strain and fostering a neutral, unobtrusive atmosphere that neither energizes nor relaxes excessively.

    Cool colors, typically in the range of 5,000K to 10,000K, encompass shades of blue and green. These colors are linked to feelings of calmness, serenity, and cleanliness. The psychological effects of cool lighting are often harnessed in environments like hospitals, clinics, and laboratories, where a sense of tranquility and precision is required. Cool light mimics the natural light of a clear midday sky, which can make spaces feel more open and expansive. It also promotes alertness and concentration, making it suitable for environments where focus and attentiveness are critical.

    In design and architecture, the understanding of color temperature’s psychological effects is essential. The choice of lighting can transform the mood and functionality of a space. For instance, in residential settings, warm lighting is favored in bedrooms and living rooms to create a relaxing, cozy atmosphere conducive to unwinding. In contrast, offices and study areas benefit from neutral to cool lighting, which enhances productivity and mental clarity. Retail and hospitality environments often employ varying color temperatures to craft specific moods; warm lighting may be used in dining areas to foster a comfortable, intimate setting, while cooler lighting can be utilized in display areas to highlight products and create a sense of space and clarity.

    Ultimately, the psychology of color temperature reveals the power of light in shaping human experience. By carefully selecting the appropriate color temperature for each environment, designers can influence not only the aesthetics of a space but also the emotional and psychological well-being of its occupants. This understanding is crucial in creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functionally supportive of the desired activities and moods.

  • Decorative Light Bulbs

    Decorative light bulbs are designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of lighting fixtures, adding style and ambiance to spaces. These bulbs come in various shapes, sizes, and finishes, making them popular in both residential and commercial settings.

    Some of the most common types include Edison bulbs, known for their vintage look with visible filaments that emit a warm, amber glow, and are ideal for creating cozy atmospheres. Globe bulbs are spherical and often larger, making them perfect for vanity mirrors, pendant lights, and chandeliers. Flame-tip and candelabra bulbs add an elegant, traditional look to fixtures like chandeliers and wall sconces, often resembling candle flames.

    LED filament bulbs combine the energy efficiency of LEDs with the vintage appearance of traditional filament bulbs, offering a warm glow with lower energy consumption. Decorative bulbs also come with features like dimmability, a range of color temperatures, and special finishes like tinted or frosted glass.

    These bulbs are commonly used in living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, outdoor spaces, and commercial environments such as restaurants and cafes. Decorative light bulbs are key elements in interior design, transforming the mood and style of any space.

    Decorative bulbs come in a variety of shapes and sizes

    When choosing a decorative bulb, several factors should be considered to ensure the bulb complements your space and meets your lighting needs:

    1. Bulb Shape and Size: The shape and size of the bulb should match the fixture and the desired aesthetic. For instance, Edison bulbs are ideal for a vintage look, while globe bulbs work well in modern or vanity fixtures.
    2. Base Type: Ensure the bulb’s base (e.g., E26, E12) is compatible with your fixture’s socket.
    3. Color Temperature: This determines the warmth or coolness of the light, measured in Kelvin. A lower Kelvin (around 2700K) provides a warm, cozy glow, while higher Kelvin (4000K and above) emits a cooler, more energizing light.
    4. Brightness (Lumens): Consider the brightness level required for the space. Decorative bulbs typically emit softer light, but the lumens should align with your lighting needs.
    5. Dimmability: If your fixture has a dimmer switch, choose a bulb that is dimmable to adjust the ambiance as needed.
    6. Energy Efficiency: LED decorative bulbs are more energy-efficient and longer-lasting compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. This is an important factor if you’re looking for sustainability and cost savings.
    7. Lifespan: LEDs generally last longer than incandescent bulbs, which can reduce the frequency of replacements.
    8. Special Finishes: Decorative bulbs may come with tinted glass, frosted finishes, or mirrored tips, which can create different lighting effects and add a unique touch to your space.
    9. Fixture Compatibility: Some fixtures are designed for specific bulb types (e.g., chandelier bulbs for chandeliers). Make sure the bulb complements the fixture both in appearance and function.
    10. Style and Aesthetic: The bulb’s style should align with your interior design. Whether you prefer a modern, vintage, or industrial look, the bulb should enhance the overall decor of the room.

    Considering these factors will help you choose the right decorative bulb that not only meets your functional needs but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your space.

  • What is Color Temperature?

    We all feel the psychological effects of light as we observe it, though this can be hard to describe.

    The first characteristic of light that makes observing it possible is intensity or brightness.

    The second characteristic, and the one we’ll be diving into in this article, is color temperature. Not to be confused with color – we’ll save that for another discussion.

    Origins

    Warning: Scientific Content

    In the late 19th century, scientists such as Max Planck and Wilhelm Wien conducted experiments to understand the spectral distribution of electromagnetic radiation emitted by black bodies (graphite, carbon nanotubes, etc.) at different temperatures. They discovered that the color of light emitted by a black body shifts as its temperature changes.

    Wilhelm Wien formulated Wien’s Displacement Law, which states that the wavelength of maximum emission (peak intensity) of black-body radiation is inversely proportional to the absolute temperature of the black body. In other words, as the temperature increases, the peak wavelength shifts to shorter (cooler) wavelengths, resulting in bluer light. Conversely, as the temperature decreases, the peak wavelength shifts to longer (warmer) wavelengths, resulting in redder light.

    This relationship between the temperature of a black body and the color of the light it emits is the basis for the concept of color temperature. The Kelvin scale is used to quantify color temperature, with lower temperatures corresponding to warmer (redder) colors and higher temperatures corresponding to cooler (bluer) colors.

    Application

    The practical application of color temperature in lighting design emerged from this scientific understanding. By selecting light sources with specific color temperatures, we can create desired visual effects and atmospheres in various environments, from cozy and intimate to bright and invigorating.

    Here’s a breakdown of how color temperature relates to the perceived color of light:

    Warm Colors (Lower Kelvin Temperatures):

    • Light sources with lower Kelvin temperatures appear warmer and more yellowish or reddish in color. They often evoke a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Examples include candlelight and incandescent bulbs.
    • Typical color temperature range: 2000K to 3000K.

    Neutral White (Mid-Range Kelvin Temperatures):

    • Light sources with mid-range Kelvin temperatures produce a neutral white light that closely resembles natural daylight. This type of lighting is versatile and suitable for various applications, from residential to commercial settings.
      Typical color temperature range: 3500K to 4500K.

    Cool Colors (Higher Kelvin Temperatures):

    • Light sources with higher Kelvin temperatures emit cooler, bluish-white light. They are often associated with a crisp and energizing ambiance, similar to daylight on a clear day.
    • Typical color temperature range: 5000K to 6500K.

    Color temperature is particularly important in lighting design because it can influence the mood, atmosphere, and functionality of a space. For example:

    • In residential settings, warmer color temperatures are often preferred in areas where relaxation and comfort are desired, such as bedrooms and living rooms.
    • Cooler color temperatures are commonly used in task-oriented spaces like kitchens, offices, and retail environments, where clarity and focus are important.
    • Outdoor lighting, such as streetlights and security lights, may vary in color temperature depending on factors like safety, visibility, and aesthetics. When choosing outdoor lighting, its also important to consider the “Dark Sky” factor.

    When selecting lighting for a particular environment, it’s essential to consider the desired mood and functionality, as well as how the color temperature will interact with other elements in the space. Additionally, advancements in LED lighting technology have made it possible to adjust color temperatures dynamically, allowing for greater flexibility and customization in lighting design.