Posted by Gary Hubbard
on 08/12/2011
In makes economic sense to use timers or occupancy / vacancy sensors in public restrooms. There is no need for the lights to be on in an unoccupied space. However there are problems when these technologies are combined with energy efficient fluorescent lights.
Fluorescent lights can take up to two minutes to reach full brightness. In many cases by the time the light has properly illuminated the space it is no longer occupied. This could create a safety concern in a public restroom. Also the constant on off cycling of the light reduces the life of the light creating a maintenance issue. Many fluorescent lighting manufactures recommend a minimum on time of thirty minutes in order to maintain lamp life.
The solution in these applications is LED. Light emitting diodes reach full brightness instantly and the on off cycling of a motion sensor increases their useable life. The combination of a properly placed intelligent sensor and a LED light fixture in a public restroom will maximize both efficiency and safety while eliminating any maintenance issues for many years (Usually the entire career of the maintenance staff).
An intelligent sensor reacts to presence in a room. It won’t be falsely triggered by a breeze on the towel rack. A led light can be set to go on the instant the sensor senses presence and off when the sensor no longer senses presence, saving energy and lighting life. This solution is more expensive up front but the energy and maintenance savings makes this solution the best economic choice in the long run. Plus this solution is safer as the proper light levels are maintained within the space. Safety and security are an extremely high priority to all of our customers with public facilities, and addressing lighting in public restroom facilities is a simple yet impactful way to improve.
