Wellness & Safety

How to Safely Replace A Ceiling Light

by admin · Apr 5, 2024

Ceiling lights are a must-have feature in any room. Whether you don’t like the previous homeowner’s taste or you’re just ready for an update, ceiling lights can revitalize your home space. It may be even easier than you think–just follow these steps to safely switch out those old light fixtures for a new look.

What you’ll need:

Screwdriver
Step ladder
Voltage detector

You may also need:

Wire cutters
Wire strippers
Pliers
Painter’s tape
An extra set of hands

Part 1: Remove Old Fixture

Step 1: Turn off power

Shutting off the electricity is important to your safety. Locate the switchboard for the room you are working in and flip the switch. If you’re not sure where the switchboard is, check the basement or garage. It might also be in the front of the house or near the entrance.

Once you’ve flipped the switch for the room with the ceiling light, go back into the room and flip the switch a few times to make sure the power is off. Then, leave the light switch in the off position. Make sure you lock the circuit box or leave a note indicating that you are working.

Step 2: Remove cover and bulbs

Use a stable step ladder to reach your ceiling light. Hold the cover, or the visible, outside piece of the light fixture, in place with one hand. Loosen the screws with a screwdriver in the other. (For heavy or large fixtures, it’s best to have someone else hold on while you work on the screws.

Once the cover is removed, unscrew the light bulbs and set them aside.

Step 3: Lower the fixture base

With the cover removed, you will be able to see the base–the part of the light fixture that attaches directly to the ceiling. Typically, the base will have tabs or nuts and screws securing it. Loosen the nuts or screws, then lower the base to access the wiring (In the rare case you’re unable to find the screws, search for the installation manual online. You can also take a picture of your base and bring it into our showroom – we’ll take a look and help you figure it out!)

Until you have disconnected the wiring, you will want to lower the base but not remove it completely—an easy way to do this is by securing it with painter’s tape or having someone else hold it in place.

Step 4: Disconnect the wires

Once you have uncovered the space behind the old light fixture, there should be a junction box where wires are connected and stored. Start by removing the caps or tape covering the wire connections. The caps will come off when twisted counterclockwise.

Pro Tip: Take a picture beforehand so you can remember exactly how everything was put together.

Part 2: Connect the Wiring

Step 1: Test voltage

Test each exposed wire by touching it with the tip of your voltage detector.

If the voltage detector lights up, there is a current running through, and the wire is unsafe to touch. Double-check your circuit box and ensure the switch is still flipped.

Once you’re sure there is no electrical current, you are safe to continue working with the wires.

Untangle the wires and detach the fixture from the ceiling completely. Either hand off to someone below or carefully carry it down the ladder.

Step 2: Check wires

Frayed wires can be hazardous -if there is any fraying on the end of the wires, trim them down with wire cutters. Then, strip off any insulation on the outside with wire strippers. You only need to strip about ½ inch of insulation for the wire connection.

Pro Tip: Check your new fixture’s installation recommendations carefully. If you’re installing a heavy fixture such as a ceiling fan or chandelier, you may also need to install an additional support in the ceiling.

Step 3: Match and Attach

Electrical wires are color-coded. Black or red are hot wires, white is neutral, and green or bare copper are ground wires. A grounding wire sometimes connects to a grounding screw instead of another wire. Look for a matching wire in your ceiling for each wire in your fixture.

Twist together each matching wire. Either by hand or with pliers, hold the exposed ends side by side with one hand and twist with the other. (This is where your picture of the original fixture’s wiring comes in handy.)

Now that the wires are connected, it’s important to cover the exposed ends again. Screw the wire caps on by twisting clockwise over the connected ends until they hold the wires tightly in place. If your original fixture didn’t have wire caps, you can use electrical tape as well.

Make sure to check the owner’s manual for specific instructions—for example, you might have an extra red wire that connects to a black wire. If you don’t have any instructions, generally you will be fine with just matching the correct wire colors.

Part 3: Install New Fixture

Step 1: Replace junction box

With all your wiring safe and sound, the junction box is ready to be put back into place. Tighten the screws securely against the bracket until Fold the wires up into the box so they will be hidden behind the ceiling light.

Step 2: Attach new fixture

There are several different ways your new light fixture base could attach to the ceiling—these are the most common ways. As always, check the owner’s manual for anything specific or unique about your light.

Securely attach the light base by positioning it over the mounting screws. Place a metal nut on each screw and twist by hand until they are tightly holding the base in place.

If the fixture has a mounting bracket, connect the mounting bracket to the junction box first, then hang the base over the screws.

If it’s a keyhole shape, adjust the base so the screws slide into the smaller grooves and then tighten the screws with a screwdriver until they are holding the base securely.

Step 3: Install light bulbs

Now that your base is set, it’s time to add the light bulbs. Make sure you have the correct wattage—the fixture typically indicates its maximum wattage on the package or owner’s manual.

When choosing which bulbs to use, the lower the wattage the safer. Most light fixtures are safe with up to 60 watt incandescent bulbs. You may also want to consider more eco-friendly choices, such as CFL or LED bulbs. These options have lower wattage but produce the same amount of lighting, saving you money on electricity in the long run.

Test the bulbs by turning the electricity back on—flip the switch on the circuit breaker then turn on the room light switch. If it is flickering, dim, or not turning on at all, turn the electricity off again and check everything—look for loose connections or mismatched wires. If your lights are bright and solid, you are ready for the final step.

Step 5: Attach cover

Flip the light switch and circuit breaker back off before installing anything else. Take your light fixture’s shade, cover, or top and climb back up the ladder. Attach it to the base by twisting screws or attaching pieces until everything is tight and secure. If it’s a hanging light, make sure it’s at the proper height before finishing your work. Every light has different connecting components, so check your owner’s manual and just make sure it’s snug.

And there you have it, your guide for installing a new, updated ceiling light. Now that you know how to install it, make sure to visit our showroom to choose the perfect fixture for your ceiling!

Gorgeous Nature-Inspired Rooms You’ll Want to Escape To Immediately

by admin · Mar 29, 2024

When you’re designing your house, finding inspiration is key. Taking a step outside can give you a fresh perspective – there’s no better inspiration than mother nature herself! No matter what space you’re working on, drawing from the beauty of nature will make your home feel like paradise.

The combination of earth tones and natural materials in these rooms almost makes them feel more like they should be in National Geographic than a home decor magazine – and we mean that in the very best way possible.

Bathrooms

Picture yourself after a long day of work. You’re exhausted, and what you need more than anything is a moment to yourself. You finally get some uninterrupted time to sit in the warmth of the tub and it feels good. The anxiety melts away. Your bathroom can be a natural refuge from your stress. When you put a little effort into your bathroom, it’ll pay off!

The owner of this room has a green thumb that brings the whole room to life. To complement the plants, they chose a macrame chandelier that’s uniquely fitted for this bathroom. Warm wood and wicker also feel right at home in this organic space. The black furniture and tub ground the look, bringing an effortless cohesiveness. You’d have a hard time feeling anything but relaxed here.

This light and airy space incorporates natural materials like wicker and terracotta pots. The foolproof combination of warm wood tones, green plants, and neutral, natural colors will always leave you feeling like you’re stepping into an oasis! This room is definitely a no-interruption zone.

If it was possible (or ethical) to steal a bathtub, we’d be walking out of this bathroom hauling this one! The wood exterior is a nature enthusiast’s dream base for relaxation. The twinkling lights behind it are also a charming touch to give the bath a glow.

Living Rooms

The living room is the main hub of the house. It’s where work, relax, and entertain guests – you live here. Whether you choose a paired back approach or go full maximalist and pull out all the stops, make sure to include some natural materials to ground yourself and make the living room feel more like home.

Neutrals are the star of the show in this living room. We love the texture the pendant light brings and how it coordinates with the mirror frame and the accessories in the room. The color palette may be limited, but each piece works together to create a neutral haven where texture is the star of the show.

This nature-inspired design would work well in a space of any size. When you’re strapped for square footage, picking a smaller couch that will still accommodate your needs is a smart choice. A pendant light also shows creativity since it won’t take up any extra floor space. It’ll give you the ambiance for an intimate conversation or some light for reading. The texture of the wicker and wood here is also stunning. Adding burnt orange brings a tiny pop of color to make you feel extra happy!

This colorful living room is oozing with style! Who said organic design has to be boring? We can’t help but feel insanely jealous of whoever owns this room. Everything here – the colors, textiles, plants, and warm wood furniture – is to die for. Don’t be afraid to go bold and bright if it makes you happy. This is a living room anyone would be lucky to come home to!

This living space uses nearly all natural materials and earth tones in its design to make a cozy conversation space. From the wood ceilings to the stone accents, the textures here are immaculate. Everything feels warm and welcoming. A wood ceiling fan matches all the decor and will give this homeowner an extra breeze on a hot summer day.

Bedrooms

The bedroom is the best place to be a little braver with your decor. It’s the place you should feel the most comfortable being yourself. Pick bolder earth tones and bring in all the natural materials to create a place that will allow you to be the best version of yourself!

This cozy room pulls out all the stops. The way the headboard coordinates with the gorgeous pendant lights has our jaws on the floor! They give the room a natural glow and highlight that warm orange wall. To some a deep, rich color like this can be intimidating, but this bedroom is the perfect example of what can happen when the risk pays off.

Going dark on the paint can be risky, but using light, warm colors to contrast it is a clever way to combat any heaviness and create balance. The pendant above the bed is a gorgeous focal point that ties in with the wicker and wood. A fixture like this gives off soothing, soft lighting that helps to prepare yourself for a good night’s rest.

If light and airy is more your speed, use this room as inspiration. Natural textiles bring layers of texture and interest to this bedroom that make it feel cozy and inviting. The rugs and layered blankets make this space feel lived-in without feeling cluttered. Sheer curtains allow for lots of diffused natural light for a dreamy daytime vibe, and will reflect just the right amount of light at night to create a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere.

Kitchens

No matter your kitchen’s current style, a few extra touches from nature can make it a gathering space where you’ll love to spend time preparing and sharing food with your loved ones.

In a small space like this, details matter. The warmth in the butcher block counters and floating shelves stands out against the stark white of cabinets, creating a sense of balance without filling the space up with accessories. When space is small, a single bold choice is a great way to give it some personality – these mismatched pendants do just that! And of course, no nature-inspired space is complete without a little green. In a space full of hard lines, this pothos softens the edges just a little – and it’s perfect for the out-of-the way nook in kitchen since it won’t require much light.

Going with darker textured cabinets was a bold move here. They almost look like they were carved straight from a mountain! In another space, they might look more industrial, but with the wicker pendant and basket, the white tiled backsplash, and the plants for accessories, it gives modern organic. The sharpness of the hard edges and metallic textures is softened by the natural textures and shapes throughout the space, like the draped pendant lighting – a smart choice that balances the design and makes it easier to see what you’re doing while you prep dinner.

This kitchen is a marriage of light and airy and organic design. The green styled cabinets are perfect for storing the most beautiful cookware and dishes. Adding fresh flowers makes a kitchen feel fresh and beautiful. However, the icing on this wedding cake is the lighting! Those cute white pendants and this kitchen are a match made in heaven. They fit the space perfectly and will give you some much-needed task lighting.

Nooks

Almost everyone has that spare corner in their home that they just can’t quite figure out what to do with. Adding a seating nook for reading or working one of our favorite tips to make a space feel cozy and welcoming.

This little nook looks like Shangri-la in the middle of a house! Get cozy with a book and a blanket or just take a little rest here for some mid-day rejuvenation. Everything about this leans into the wildness of the natural world. Even the lighting is freeform and organic, these hanging pendants make this space feel like magic and will give you light to read no matter the time of day.

This boho-coastal nook is just what the doctor ordered for some me-time. We love a good hammock – and this one is just begging to be relaxed in. The driftwood frame with the macrame hammock turns this space from an empty white corner into a light and airy refuge. The beaded chandelier is an unexpected twist that ties perfectly with the accessories, making this nook feel like it’s just a few steps away from the beach.

We can tell every element in this picture was chosen intentionally because it works together so well. From the wood and wicker furniture to a neutral color palette with a grounding green on the wall, you can’t get more organic than this! The dome desk lamp in white is a smart choice for task lighting – its small footprint doesn’t eat up work space, and the height and color make it pop against the dark wall behind it. This work nook may be small in size, but not in style.

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Using an earthy color palette and natural materials in your design is nothing short of gorgeous when it’s done well. We love this trend and want to help you create it in your home. Come visit Super Lite and show us what inspires you. We’ll help you the find the perfect lighting solutions to create your own natural sanctuary.

3 Top Tips to Boost Eye Health With Proper Home Lighting

by admin · Mar 15, 2024

Your eyes are responsible for sending about 80% of the total information that goes to your brain so it’s crucial to keep them healthy. While technology has made certain things better for our eyes, it’s also introduced new challenges.

And while it may be common sense that balanced lighting promotes eye health, what really goes into balanced lighting? First, we’ll explain how to create the best lighting for your eye health, then cover three main ways your home lighting habits may negatively impact your eyesight.

Ways Light Affects Our Eyes

Our eyesight is 100% dependent on light– the way it bounces around a space makes it possible for us to see color, depth, and texture. Without light, there wouldn’t be any data for our brains to process. The quality of light you use has a big impact on your eyes – and your overall health – so getting the right types of light throughout your day is important. It can be a bit of a balancing act!

Bright light is essential to do good work– and working without enough light can strain or damage our eyes. Whether you’re reading a book, working at a computer screen, or slicing up veggies for dinner, you need lighting that supports your focus and subtle movements.

But dim light is also essential to eye health! Living with only bright light can seriously strain your eyes, particularly if you don’t decrease brightness in the evening. Top offenders include office fluorescents, overly powerful LEDs, and of course our phone and computer screens.

Finally, we need a break from all light every day. Sleep resets our entire body, including our eyes. Dark spaces promote restful sleep, reducing dry eyes, itchiness, and vision-related headaches and increasing healthy eye nerves.

So how do you balance the need for bright, dim, and total darkness? And how does this apply to your home? Let’s dive into some specific tips.

3 Ways to Make Your Home Light Healthier

So, how customized does your home lighting need to be to pull off the perfect balance for your eyes? While high customizations are available, there’s no need to overdo it! By focusing on the following three categories, you can confidently know that your home has healthy lighting.

1. Screen Light

Screens are the number one culprit of today’s eyestrain and deteriorating eyesight for two reasons: the type of light and the proximity of the light.

All tech screens use blue light, from phones to tablets to computers. Blue light sends high-energy waves like the sun. This light spectrum shows true color and activates the brain to pay attention. So it’s typically a good thing that our screens use blue light.

However, shining that bright light at close range for eight or more hours a day can cause a lot of damage over time. To reduce the wear on your eyes from necessary screen time, consider the following tips:

Use task or bias lighting. Introducing additional light sources behind or next to your screen will help break up the contrast. Try adding lamps, improving your overhead light source, or sticking an LED strip around the back of your TV or computer monitor to diffuse the light.

Take regular breaks. Experts recommend taking a screen break every hour for 5-10 minutes. Children should take more frequent breaks since their eyes are still developing. Kids should take a break every twenty minutes of screen time
Use blue light glasses. Blue light glasses help filter out harmful light waves and allow you to work longer, doing less damage.

2. Match the Light to the Room’s Needs

You use your kitchen, office, and bedrooms in a variety of ways throughout the day, so their lighting should change too! Otherwise you may accidentally strain your eyes with too much or too little light for what you need. With a bit of thought and a few simple tools, you’ll have your high-traffic areas perfectly prepared for all your needs, day or night.

Work Zones: Bright light is best for areas where you are performing skilled work. It will help you avoid mistakes and stay alert. So kitchens, offices, makeup tables, garages, and craft areas all need bright lighting. Make replacing current bulbs a priority in these rooms.
Resting Areas: Bedrooms, living rooms, and bathrooms are mainly for relaxing. Warmer, dimmer light is better for these locations. This will help you to give your eyes a rest, blend colors, and signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down.

In-between Places: You may have some spaces performing multiple functions. Bathrooms are a great example: you need bright light to get ready, but you also need a place to relax with a bath. Consider adding a dimmer switch in these rooms, or test out some color-changing LED bulbs that can be warm or cool with just the touch of a buttom.

Did you know that local lighting experts can help you get the right tools for your space? Bring your tricky areas to them to get help matching the proper lighting for your needs.

3. Types of Bulbs

Finally, let’s talk about bulbs. Your bulb selection will help you get the right balance for your eyes and avoid having them work too hard. Here’s a rundown of common bulb types and their effects on your eye health:

Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs): These twisted bulbs were trendy in the early 2000s as a domestic fluorescent option. However, fluorescent lighting is generally hard on eyes because it emits more UV rays. They also flicker at a high rate, so even though you likely won’t notice it, flourescents are associated with headaches and eye strain. So we’d recommend using another bulb first.

Incandescent: Incandescent bulbs are quickly phasing out as a non-efficient energy light. But, with no UV rays and low blue light emission, they’re “easy on the eyes.” So you could leave a trusty incandescent bulb in your favorite reading lamp!

LEDs: LEDs are highly customizable, meaning you can easily adjust brightness and temperature to help reduce strain on your eyes anytime. However, they emit quite a bit of blue light. They also flicker at a high frequency– it’s not visible to most people, but those prone to seizures may be triggered by too many LEDs. In general, LEDs are a safe option!

Halogen: Halogen bulbs are very bright, making them great for task and outdoor lighting. They’re also dimmable, making them more flexible than CFLs. However, they can get very hot and have been known to cause fires. Handle these bulbs cautiousl!

A little research will help ensure that you have the best bulbs, lumens, and temperatures for your family.

Need Help?

Proper lighting is essential to a fully functioning home– but it can be challenging to nail balanced brightness, great fixtures, and a budget! Contact the experts at Super Lite for advice on your project!

How Lighting Affects Your Health

by admin · Jan 19, 2024

How to Improve Your Sleep by Improving Your Lights

Sleep has massive importance on your ability to perform at your best every day, but it’s one of the most overlooked aspects of health. If you’ve ever spent the night caring for an infant every hour or finishing a paper in the wee hours of the morning, you’ve experienced firsthand the effects of sleep deprivation. Focusing becomes next-to-impossible, and getting through the day awake can be a challenge.

Improving your sleep is key to having a better mood, better cognitive functioning, and overall improved health. According to the Sleep Foundation, “light is the most important external factor affecting sleep.” Everyone knows it’s easier to sleep when it’s dark, but the link between lighting and sleep goes deeper than that. By learning more about this link, you can learn how to create an environment that will give you the sleep you’ve been dreaming of.

The Effects of Sleep (and Sleep Deprivation)

Before we discuss changing your lighting to help your sleep hygiene, let’s talk about why sleep is so important to your overall health. When you sleep consistently, you can “think more clearly, have quicker reflexes, and focus better” (NIH). The National Institute of Health says, “sleep…affects growth and stress hormones, our immune system, appetite, breathing, blood pressure and cardiovascular health.” Part of caring for yourself includes improving your sleep.

When you don’t get consistent and continuous sleep (7-8 hours per night for adults), your health suffers. Some of the more obvious effects of sleep deprivation include a worse mood, impaired cognitive functions, and a shorter attention span. But, did you know that not getting quality sleep can also increase your risk of hypertension, obesity, and Type 2 diabetes? While you sleep, your body performs important functions. If you have trouble sleeping consistently without waking up, it’s time to think about your lights.

Circadian Rhythms

Light and sleep are two sides of the same coin. Light regulates your body’s circadian rhythm – your internal clock that tells your body when to sleep and wake. When light enters your eye, your brain processes information about the light and senses the time of day. Then, a signal is sent from your brain to your body to regulate organs and other systems in your body. (Sleep Foundation)

If you lived in a world where you were exposed to natural light only, your circadian rhythm would align with sunrise and sunset. However, since we live in a modern world where bright lights are available at the flick of a switch, you need to be more intentional about selecting the lights you expose yourself to, especially in the evenings. The lights you’re using may be affecting you more than you realize!

Melatonin

Light also affects the production of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone your body makes naturally to help you regulate your circadian rhythm. It makes you feel drowsy and promotes quality sleep. The pineal gland in your brain (pictured above) initiates the production of melatonin in response to darkness. When you’re exposed to light, melatonin production slows down or stops. For some people, synthetic melatonin may be recommended or prescribed, but improving sleep hygiene should always be your first step toward healthier sleep. (Sleep Foundation)

Light and Sleep Hygiene

While we want you to sleep well no matter what, your body’s circadian rhythm can be a little sensitive. To account for that fact, you’ll need to manipulate your environment a little. Circadian rhythms are particularly sensitive to light two hours before bed and one hour after waking up. During these times, adjusting your lighting is imperative.

If you have bright household or bedroom lights, dimming them two hours before bed will prepare your body for better sleep. Increasing your light in the morning will keep you alert during the day. Getting dimmable lights is one way to control your lights’ brightness. Using several light sources (lamps, overhead lighting, etc.) is also an option. If dimmable overhead lights don’t work for you, find a dimmable bedside lamp instead! In the morning, turn on the brightest lights in your room and bathroom while you get ready to help yourself wake up. (CDC)

Light Color Effects on Sleep

The color of light you choose at different times of the day will also impact your circadian rhythm and night sleep. According to the CDC, blue and white lights make the biggest difference on your circadian rhythm, especially during the sensitive period at night.

Blue and Bright White Light

White light contains blue light. Common sources of this light are the sun, LED lights, and digital screens. Exposure to white light can help to improve your mood and keep you feeling more alert and focused. During the day, using white light to wake up and to stay productive is a great idea.

If you’re having trouble sleeping, it’s best to avoid blue and white light sources at night. Yes, that means you really shouldn’t be scrolling on your phone in bed – you might think it’s helping you to unwind, but that light is actively disrupting your circadian rhythm. Some phones have a “night mode” that you can enable that will warm up the temperature of the light, which helps a little, but you’re better off reading a book with a warm, dimmed light.

Yellow, Red, and Orange Light

Warm Light, seen as yellow, orange, or red, comes from places like a fireplace or an edison bulb. LED bulbs can also be purchased that give off this type of light – they’re often called “warm white” or “soft white.” Yellow and orange lights have very little effect on your internal clock, so picking these colors for your room shouldn’t interfere with the sleep you’re dreaming of. Red light is the only color that has no effect on your circadian rhythm.

Get Better Sleep with Smart Lighting Choices

Changing your environment to promote better sleep can be as simple as switching out a few light bulbs. Pay attention to which kinds of light you have in your home, especially in the places you spend time at night. If you spend your evenings in the living room under bright white bulbs, that could be impacting the sleep you’re getting.

Fortunately, switching out the color of your light bulbs is a relatively easy fix for most fixtures. To give yourself the best lighting for a good night’s sleep, we recommend choosing warm white bulbs for your bedroom and bedside tables, and for the rooms you use in the evenings, such as the dining room, den, or living room.

Rooms where you need to focus, like the kitchen or your office, often have bright white lighting. Minimize your time in these places, or look at adding lamps or under-cabinet lighting that can allow you to use the room with a warmer, less bright light.

The multi-use spaces in your home where you need to focus during the day and relax at night can be the hardest. Lamps and/or dimmer switches in these areas are a must for good sleep hygiene. Another option would be to install color-changing bulbs that can take you from bright white to soft white throughout the day. Color-changing bulbs usually require you to change the color manually with a remote. If you’re willing to spring for smart bulbs, many can be programmed to change throughout the day or on command.

We know that fixing your lighting environment won’t magically take away all of the things that keep you up at night. But we can guarantee that making smart lighting choices at home will help you to go from early-morning alertness to late-night drowsiness without your light bulbs messing up your internal clock.

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Choosing the right lighting is important for your health. If you need help optimizing your home’s lighting for a good night’s sleep, give the lighting experts at Super Lite a call, or stop by our showroom to chat in person! We’d love to help. Sweet dreams!

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*Disclaimer: Lighting, while important, won’t replace expert health care. If you have concerns about your sleep, please remember to make an appointment with your doctor.

Create a Balanced Home with Warm Light

by admin · Aug 18, 2023

Did you know that the color of the lights in your home has an affect on your health? Both your sleep and your mental health can be influenced by the type of light you’re exposed to during the day, and it’s about more than just the lightbulbs in your bedside lamp. In 2020, people spent an average of 13 or more hours a day on screens. Many of us are struggling to fall asleep at night, we’re less productive, and we’re noticing that our emotions are a lot closer to the surface. Parents are seeing their children struggle with emotional regulation. While these issues are multifaceted, the links to overexposure to blue light can be seen across the board. Consciously introducing warm light into the home could be a simple, yet powerful part of creating a healthier and happier home.

The Difference Between Blue and Red Light

Light is made up of many different wavelengths, which our eyes perceive as colors. Each color correlates to a color temperature on a spectrum from low energy (red) to high (blue). Light from each part of the spectrum reacts with our eyes and brain in a unique way and affects the way they function.

Blue light has high energy and its color temperature is around 5000+ Kelvin (K). As the Kelvins go higher, the light appears cooler, or more blue. Many people associate blue light with harsh fluorescent bulbs, but we get most of our blue light exposure from a more natural source – the sun! Most screens, from laptops to televisions to cell phones, emit blue light as well. Red light is on the opposite side of the spectrum. It has lower energy and its color temperature ranges between 2700-3000K. Red light is more commonly called warm light. Imagine the light given off by a candle’s flame or an Edison bulb, this is red light. This type of light plays a crucial role in a well-balanced home by regulating both the health and the mood of its inhabitants.

How Light Affects Your Sleep

The human body runs according to a circadian rhythm, or a 24-hour cycle. This rhythm regulates many functions in the body, with one of the most basic being the sleep cycle. In the morning, the sun’s natural blue light signals the body to produce a hormone called cortisol, which promotes alertness and focus. When the sun sets and gives off a warmer glow that fades into darkness, the change in light signals the body to make a hormone called melatonin, which promotes relaxation and sleep. The cycle of the sun signals the mind to fall asleep or wake up. There is nothing inherently unhealthy about blue light. Problems arise, however, when we interrupt that natural shift in light temperature by exposing ourselves to blue light for hours after the sun has set. The blue light from your light bulbs and device screens signal the body to keep making cortisol instead of switching to melatonin. This disrupts the circadian rhythm and natural sleep cycle, which can make it harder to fall asleep at the end of the day. While a late-night TV binge here and there won’t cause much trouble, regularly disrupting the natural sleep cycle by several hours can lead to health problems.

Get Better Sleep With Balanced Light

Good sleep is crucial to overall good health. Our bodies need that time to rest and restore each day. The brain uses sleep to create new pathways to retain what it learned during the day, so one major side effect of poor sleep is poor memory. Studies have also linked increased anxiety, depression, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease with poor sleep. These risks are greater in children. So what can you do to avoid the destabilizing effects of blue light? The obvious answer is to avoid all blue light after sunset, but that’s just not practical. The key to this issue is balance. Cool, blue light is only a problem when it overtakes the natural balance with warm, red light. Find ways to bring that balance back into your home by limiting blue lights and increasing warm light after dark. It’s a pretty easy fix once you know what to look for. A simple switch to warm bulbs (often called “soft white”) and limited screen usage at sunset will have long-term benefits for the whole family by promoting healthy, natural sleep.

How Light Affects Your Mood

Have you ever noticed that many sit-down restaurants feel as if they are only half-lit? This isn’t done to save on the electricity bill, there’s a science behind it! Restaurateurs take advantage of both types of light to keep their business running smoothly. Warm, dimmed lighting in the dining areas naturally relaxes guests and encourages quiet. The kitchens are brightly lit with cool light to help everyone working there to be fully alert and productive while working at high speed. You can do the same thing in your home once you know how it works. Warm, red light is naturally less bright than blue light, so it will feel softer in your home. Use it in the places where you spend time at night to help you wind down and relax. It’s also a great choice for family gatherings or an intimate dinner date at home, where you can use warm light to naturally make everyone feel comfortable. Bright light enhances emotions, making us more aware of everything we’re feeling. If you notice that bedtime is a constant source of chaos at your home, try dimming the light in bedrooms, hallways, bathrooms, etc. It won’t instantly make them perfect sleepers, but it will definitely help you to foster a calm wind-down strategy at the end of the day.

How to Use Warm Light At Home

Older incandescent bulbs are a great source for warm light, but they’re being phased out in the lighting industry in favor of safer and more efficient alternatives. But that doesn’t mean you need to break out the candles just yet! LED stands for “light-emitting diode”. Essentially they’re microchips that glow as electricity passes through them. This design not only makes them up to 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs, but it also makes them versatile. LED bulbs come in a wide variety of color temperatures, and they can be paired with dimmers to set the mood. Some are even color-changing, so that you can switch back and forth from warm to cool using a remote or an app. If you just don’t love the look of a standard LED bulb, there are beautiful Edison bulb style LED options available! They’ll still give you that soft, warm, old-world charm with all of the same energy efficiency and safety advantages.

Where to Use Warm Light

When you’re planning where you want to introduce warm light in your home, think about the main uses for each space. One method is to designate each space in your home as an active or rest area. Active areas are places where you’re working. Blue light promotes focus and alertness, so it’s great to have in places like the kitchen, homework stations, home office, and garage. Rest areas are places where you want to relax and feel comfortable. They’re often gathering places like the living room or dining room, or night-time areas like hallways and bedrooms. Some rooms will have a combination of uses, so you’ll want to use a combination of light types! Bathrooms could use a mix, as blue light is great for a makeup table but warm light is more relaxing for a soak in the tub. Large great rooms might have seating and dining spaces that are rest areas, and study desk and food prep spaces that are active areas. Play around with lamps, dimmers, and smart bulbs to get the right balance for the way you use your home.

This world feels chaotic at times, and finding balance can feel daunting. We can’t help much with office politics or your crazy neighbors, but when it comes to lighting we know a thing or two about helping you find just the right light for your home. If you’re ready to start creating a balanced home with warm light, give us a call or stop by our showroom. Our lighting experts are happy to answer your questions and help you get started!

How to Safely Install a Ceiling Fan

by admin · Mar 12, 2023

Installing a new ceiling fan is a cheap way to save on energy costs all year without compromising on comfort. In the summer, ceiling fans cool down the house by creating a breeze. In the winter, they help circulate the heated air to warm the whole room evenly.

Putting in a ceiling fan is a win-win for your comfort levels and your budget – and it’s a pretty simple DIY project for homeowners. Plan on giving yourself a few hours (depending on the type of fan and your experience level with lighting DIYs), and grab a friend that can help you hold things in place while you work.

If you’re buying a ceiling fan new, it should come with thorough installation instructions. We always recommend following those instructions exactly to be sure that your fan is installed safely and properly. If you’re installing a secondhand fan, you may be able to find the installation guide online by searching with the model number on the fan. Either way, we’ll walk you through the basic steps here so that you can prepare.

1. Preparation

Before you break out your tool belt, make sure you have a good plan in place. There’s nothing worse than being in the middle of a project and realizing you don’t have everything you need to complete the task.

Tool Checklist

Before you take on a ceiling fan installation project, make sure you have all the tools you need so you don’t have to rush off to your local hardware store for a last-minute purchase. To install a ceiling fan you’ll need to have a:

Voltage Tester
Ladder
Measuring Tape
Screwdriver
Ceiling Fan-Rated Junction Box
Fan Brace
Wire-Cutter/Stripper
Light Bulbs
Globes/Shades if they aren’t included
An extra-long downrod if you’re installing on a sloped ceiling
Ceiling Fan and Kit

Choosing the Right Fan Size

Measure the room you’re working in before you start. Not all fans are created equal, so pick one that will fit. Use the following guidelines to help.

For rooms smaller than 75 square feet (like bathrooms), pick a fan with blade spans of less than 36 inches.
Blade spans between 36 and 42 inches are ideal for rooms up to 144 square feet.
A 44-inch span is perfect for rooms up to 225 square feet, like a dining room.
For rooms that are 225 square feet or larger (a large living room, for example), you’ll need a fan with a 50 to 54-inch blade span.
The more space between the ceiling and the fan, the better! The ideal ceiling fan height is 8-9 feet above the ground.
If your ceiling is less than 8 feet, you’ll most likely need to install a flush-mount fan (no downrod).
High pitched ceilings typically require you to buy an extra-long downrod (so that the blades won’t hit the sloped ceiling), so check your ceiling height and angle before choosing your downrod.

Pro Tip: Once your fan is installed, the tips of the blades should be at least 30 inches from the walls, and the bottom edges of the blades should be at least 7 feet above the floor.

Other Important Tips

Ceiling fans are heavy! They need to be anchored properly to an electric ceiling box designed to hold the weight of the fan. Inspect the electrical box to ensure it’s fan-rated. There should be an inscription on the box to indicate this. If it’s not, you’ll also need to purchase a fan box before you get started.
Check to make sure the light switch you’re using is wired appropriately for the fan. If it isn’t, you may need to call a professional to get the job done.
Check the ceiling joists for any wiring or plumbing pipes that may be in the way.
If you’re adding a new fan where one didn’t exist, check local building codes to determine if you need a permit.
Always check your installation guide for any additional requirements that are specific to your fan. For some expert help choosing the perfect fan for your space, give us a visit or a call and we’d be happy to help.

2. Safety

Now that you’re ready to begin, head out to your circuit breaker and turn the power off for the room where you’ll be installing your fan. Also, make sure all of the wall switches in the room are safely in the “off” position. Do not rely on a wall switch alone to protect you from electrical shock! Always use a voltage tester to be sure the power is off before handling wires.

Pro Tip: Place some electrical tape over the switches you’ve turned off on the circuit breaker. This will prevent anyone from switching it back on while you’re working.

3. Remove Your Old Fixture

Let’s get started! First, you’ll need to take down the existing fixture. Most fixtures have easy-to-find attachment points, like screws or twist-off caps. Remove accessories like light bulbs, shades to get down to the base of your fixture, then unscrew the base from the ceiling.

If you’re removing an existing ceiling fan, remove the light bulbs and globes first. Then, take down the light kit (if needed – some fans have them, some don’t). Unscrew and remove the fan blades next. At this point, you may need to enlist a helper as the full weight of the fan base and motor can be heavy. Pull off the canopy (metal cover at the base of the fan). The last step is to remove the mounting bracket with a screwdriver!

Once you have the base of your fixture dropped away from the ceiling, unscrew the wire nuts connecting it to the electrical box. Be sure to test the wires with your voltage tester first!

4. Install a Fan Box

Before you start, check your existing electrical box. If it isn’t rated to support the weight of your fan, you’ll need to install a new one. To see if your existing box is rated to hold a fan, just take a look at the label! If you can’t find a label, err on the side of caution and get a new one.

You’ll have to do a little bit of homework here to figure out what will work best for your project. Fan boxes are easiest to install if you have open access, like in the attic or an unfinished ceiling. If you won’t have easy access you may need to widen your drywall hole a little, but you can usually find a brace that will slip through the existing hole.

Take a look at your rafters to determine the best way to install your fan box. Fan boxes can be attached directly to the rafter with a side bracket. If your new fan won’t be right next to a rafter, look for a brace that will span the space between two rafters. These braces can be a little trickier to install through a small hole in the ceiling, but they’ll give you a lot more breathing room when it comes to getting your fan box in the right place.

5. Install the Mounting Bracket

To secure the mounting bracket to the fan box, start by threading the wires through the mounting bracket. If the fan has a slide-on bracket, leave the bolts on the junction box, slide the bracket over the mounting hardware, and tighten the screws. For fans without a slide-on bracket, place the bracket over the mounting bolts that poke through the bracket. Then, secure it using the provided nuts. If your fan is a flush mount, pull the wiring through the canopy (the part that covers the wiring/mount bracket) and skip to step 7.

6. Install the Downrod

To set the downrod, you’ll want to find a flat work surface. Slip the canopy onto the downrod and pull the primary wires through the hollow downrod. Then, connect the downrod to the fan base. With the downrod and base assembled, attach the other end of the downrod to the mounting bracket.

7. Wire the Fan

Next, it’s time to wire! Hang the downrod – or canopy, if you’re installing a flush mount fan – on the hook on the mounting bracket. If there isn’t a good place to hang it, phone a friend to hold the fan up for you to free up your hands while you connect the wires.

Before you start, check to make sure all your wiring (and the wire nuts) will fit in the ceiling. Use your wire cutters to trim down any wires that won’t. This will also keep them from vibrating against the canopy when the fan is on. Use wire strippers to expose the copper of the wires on the new ends.

Connect the corresponding wires using the provided wire nuts. Your installation guide will have a diagram to follow, but, generally speaking, the fan’s green wire connects to the ground wire, the fan’s black motor wire connects to the black supply wire, and the fan’s white wire connects to the white (or neutral) supply wire.

Double-check your work against the diagram, then gently push the wires into the junction box. Lift the fan into position, then clip it to the mounting bracket and secure the screws.

Pro Tip: Some fans come with additional wires for extra features, like having a separate switch for the light and fan. If your switches or wires don’t match the diagram, you might need to check in with an electrician or a lighting specialist at our showroom to help you get things set up correctly.

8. Blades and Bulbs

Now it’s time to install the fan blades. Every fan is a little bit different – but most fans will have an arm or bracket that you’ll need to attach to the blade and then to the base using a screwdriver. Some fans have quick-install blades that speed up the process using keyhole slots that slip over the fan’s mounting screws and lock into place with a little tug.

Some fans have reversible blades – so make sure you’re checking each time that you have the correct side pointed down!

By now, you should be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel – so let’s install the bulbs! For fans with a light kit, refer to your guide to ensure everything goes in place correctly. Generally, you’ll just need to install the shades, globes, or light cover. If your fan did not come with bulbs, make sure the bulbs you install have the correct base type and wattage

If your fan came with a remote, don’t forget to install the remote control holder!

9. Lights… Fan… Action!

Last, but not least, it’s time to test out your new ceiling fan! Go back to your circuit breaker and turn the power back on. Try switching your fan and lights on and off using the light switch or remote control. Test all of the speed settings to make sure your fan is secured properly and doesn’t wobble or rattle.

Most of the time, installing a ceiling fan is a pretty straightforward DIY project. Occasionally, an odd issue can crop up due to things like old wiring. If you run into any trouble, be sure to give us a call right away, or call an electrician that can help you troubleshoot the issue.

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Congratulations DIY master! Now that you’ve successfully installed your new ceiling fan, get ready for a fresh breeze to blow your way–and some savings too. With all that extra cash blowing around, come visit us and we’ll help get you started on your next project.

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DISCLAIMER: Be sure to follow all the manufacturer’s installation instructions and take all recommended safety precautions. Check before installing to see if you need a permit and be sure all building and electrical codes are observed. If you have any questions or are unsure about installing the fan yourself, contact a licensed electrician or Super Lite for more help.

Upgrading Your Lighting on a Budget

by admin · Mar 11, 2023

All the Tips, Tricks, and Secrets You Need to Make Your House Shine on a Dime

If it’s been a while since you redecorated, your current home decor probably isn’t speaking to you anymore. When you’re short on time, updating the lighting is one of the fastest ways to make your home look, well, brighter. But, when you’re on a budget, replacing everything in the house just isn’t the right call. The good news is – you don’t have to! Here’s a few easy, creative, and budget-friendly ways to make your home feel bigger and brighter… without breaking the bank.

1. Swap Your Light Bulbs

Many people blame an old fixture for their lighting woes, when really it’s the bulbs to blame. Try swapping out your old bulbs with a fresh set of brighter LED bulbs!

While LED lights may cost more upfront, they use at least 75% less energy – which means they can give off more light and use less power. They also last up to 25 times longer than traditional light bulbs, so they’ll last for years before they need to be replaced.

2. Do it Yourself

The cost of lighting installation can eat away at your budget quickly, but it can reduced if you’re willing to do a little research and put in some work. Installing lighting yourself can give you some extra cash to get lights you love.

Before tearing out any fixtures, educate yourself on the proper safety precautions! If you’re unsure about doing it yourself, don’t forget to budget for the professional help you’ll want!

3. New Shades, New Me

If your light fixture comes with shades – whether they’re glass, fabric, or metal – you might be in luck! Did you know you can replace the shades or globes on most fixtures that have them? A new set of shades is WAY cheaper than buying an entirely new light fixture, and it will make just about any fixture feel brand new again! With a like-new fixture, your space will match your style, leaving you (and your wallet) feeling happier.

4. Refinish Your Fixture

Another alternative solution to buying a new light is changing the finish of your existing fixture. With a little rub n’ buff and a handy youtube tutorial, your light will look totally different! This may need some touching up down the road, but when you need a quick fix to get you by until you can invest in a higher-quality fixture, a little DIY magic can help stretch your money. A little finish can take your fixture from outdated to updated while keeping your budget happy.

5. Mirror, Mirror

In our opinion, quality lighting makes the biggest difference in a home, but adding mirrors can also increase light–if they’re well-placed. Hanging a mirror near a light or window can help reflect light, making the space look brighter and bigger. That reflected light can go a long way in lighting up a dim room!

6. Focal Point Focus

Another way to make your space look upscale is picking a more expensive light to be a focal point, while adding other less spendy lights to light up the room. The eye will be drawn to the focal point and won’t notice anything else! To start, install a chandelier to draw attention away from any existing recessed lights. Throw in a floor lamp where you need some extra lighting and–voilà! Your eye will be drawn to the chandelier, but the room will still be beautifully lit.

7. Add Lamps, Lamps, and more Lamps!

When in doubt, add a lamp! They’re cheaper, require little to no installation, and are a great design piece. Tabletop lamps make great decor for your tablescape and can light up a workspace. Floor lamps create a homey conversation area in a living room. Lamps are a super versatile, budget-friendly option to give just the touch of light you need.

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We know that when you’re on a budget, every penny you spend matters! To be sure you’re spending all of them wisely, give us a call! We’ll match you with the best lighting solution for your budget and save you money so that you can get lights you love.