TOP TIPS TO SELECTING THE BEST CIRCADIAN RHYTHM LIGHTING SYSTEM
By: Harry Zuker, CEO, WalaLight, LLC
March 1, 2020
There are primary and secondary considerations when comparing and evaluating circadian rhythm LED lighting systems that help you make the best choice:
The article assumes that the form factor and construction of the lighting fixture is of top quality with all relevant certifications such as UL, ETL, CSA, DLC, Title 24, and others.
PRIMARY CONSIDERATIONS:
Here are the 3 primary considerations to best compare systems:
DIODES: The chipset used in the fixture must replicate the sun spectrum of light during the day to release energy and cortisol then almost eliminate all blue light at night while providing a warm amber glow to promote melatonin growth. Quality diodes such as Sunlike from Seoul Semiconductor used in WalaLight costs 10x what a typical LED chip costs but provides the best spectrums on the market.
OPERATING SYSTEM: Your system needs to be simple to program, use and maintain both using an automated schedule and manual controls that override the automated system. If app based, the app needs to be intuitive and simple to adjust schedules. The system must allow for remote access for trouble shooting and repairs off site by a qualified support team. WalaLight is powered by Meshtek, a Bluetooth wireless control system that has been controlling lighting for over 10 years and part owned by Mark Cuban. WalaLight also offers a Dali based hard wired system from BEG Controls (Brück Electronic GmbH) a 45-year-old German control company. The WalaLight system is flexible enough to be integrated with other control systems including PoE.
COST: Everyone wishes they had an open budget, but reality is we all want quality at a reasonable cost. Many systems are too complex which raises their cost. WalaLight is the low-cost alternative that checks all the boxes for a top quality, simple circadian rhythm LED lighting system.
SECORDARY CONSIDERATIONS:
You may also desire to consider the following when selecting a system. These are in no particular order.
a) Real Time Ability:
The system has a 24/7 internal clock that when manually activated using a wall or handheld switch will put the fixtures at the appropriate setting/time of day. You should not have to wait for the next scheduled change when manually turning the system off/on.
b) Smooth Transition:
When the colors/kelvin change in the fixtures, the transition is not abrupt, yet changes smoothly.
c) Light Guide:
If the fixture has a light guide or a lens, these must be made of PMMA material to ensure that it doesn’t yellow over time.
d) Warranty:
A minimum of five years on all components is acceptable. The WalaLight fixtures carry a ten-year warranty and the driver, receiver and automated system carries a five-year warranty.
e) Form Factor:
What sizes are offered? Do you desire flat panels or basket type troffers or another look? Do you have a hard ceiling and need surface mounted fixtures? Do you want to place these in a grid with hurricane/earthquake clips? Is the driver/receiver attached to the fixture or remote and needs to be placed in the ceiling? Is the junction box IC rated so it can go above the ceiling with insulation?
f) Peripherals:
Does the company offer daylight harvesting, motion occupancy and/or vacancy sensors? These could be important to further reduce energy consumption and meet municipal requirements enabling you for rebates.
WalaLight, LLC only develops, builds, sells and services circadian rhythm LED lighting systems nationwide. It is our passion to be the top quality, low cost system. WalaLight has been focused for over 6 years to develop the best and simplest cost-effective system on the market.
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