As the holiday season approaches, landscape lighting contractors have an opportunity to help customers transform their properties with lighting that goes beyond a few weeks of seasonal use. With newer technologies and more flexible lighting systems available, holiday lighting can also become part of a year-round landscape lighting solution.
Now is a good time to start planning upcoming projects, reviewing new products and talking with your local Central Pro Supply Branch about the lighting products you may need for the season.
Explore New Lighting Options
Holiday lighting continues to evolve, particularly with the growth of permanent and color-changing systems. These products can give homeowners the ability to change the appearance of their property throughout the year without installing and removing a temporary lighting system each season.
Permanent systems are commonly installed along rooflines, beneath eaves or within dedicated track systems. Depending on the product, homeowners may be able to control their lighting using a remote, Bluetooth connection, Wi-Fi or a compatible transformer and control system.
Consider Color-Changing Systems
Color-changing lighting can give customers additional flexibility for both holidays and everyday use. Instead of installing a system that is only useful during the holiday season, contractors can offer lighting that transitions between traditional white landscape lighting and a variety of colors throughout the year.
Some systems allow users to adjust both color and color temperature through a compatible app or control system. This can give homeowners options for everyday landscape lighting, holidays, special occasions and outdoor entertaining.
Look at Retrofit Opportunities
Not every customer needs a completely new lighting system. Retrofit products can provide another way to update an existing installation with newer lighting technology.
Depending on the fixture, retrofit lamps may allow contractors to introduce color-changing or smart capabilities without replacing every fixture in the landscape. Before recommending a retrofit, inspect the existing fixtures and verify that the lamp type, size and specifications are compatible.
It is also important to consider the property’s connectivity. Wi-Fi-enabled products may require adequate coverage throughout the landscape for reliable operation. In some situations, improving the property’s Wi-Fi coverage or working with a connectivity professional may be necessary.
Bluetooth is another option for certain systems. Bluetooth products can provide convenient control when the customer is at the property, while repeaters may help extend the system’s range. Be sure customers understand the difference between local Bluetooth control and systems that can be accessed remotely through an internet connection.
Setting those expectations before installation can help ensure the customer understands how their new lighting system will operate.
Add Color With Static Lamps
Color-changing technology isn’t the only way to create a festive landscape. Static-color lamps can also provide an effective option for seasonal applications and targeted lighting effects.
Depending on the fixture, common lamp styles include G4 bi-pin, MR16 and PAR36. Available colors, beam spreads and wattages will vary by product, so verify the specifications before selecting lamps for an existing system.
Combining different colors can also create additional visual effects. For example, blue and green can produce an aqua appearance, while red and amber can create an orange tone. Red and blue can also be combined to create a magenta effect.
These options can give contractors additional flexibility when designing holiday displays without requiring a fully color-changing system.
Start the Conversation Early
The best holiday lighting projects start with a conversation. Ask customers what they want their property to look like, which holidays or celebrations they observe and whether they want the system to remain useful throughout the rest of the year.
Understanding those goals will help you determine which products, controls and installation approach make the most sense for the project.
Whether you are installing a new permanent system, upgrading an existing landscape lighting installation or adding seasonal color, Central Pro Supply can help you evaluate your options and find the products that fit your project.
Need lighting training or help selecting products? Contact your local Central Pro Supply Branch Lighting Expert.