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Category: <span>Lighting Retrofits</span>

Kirby ElectricBlogLighting Retrofits
25 Nov 2019
LED Panel Lights
0 Comments By dev@bigfin.com Commercial Lighting, Electricians, Industrial Lighting, Lighting Retrofits, Services

Seattle Commercial Lighting Upgrades

Seattle Commercial Lighting UpgradesChoosing energy-efficient commercial lighting for your business is an important but often daunting task. According to Energystar.gov, replacing old fluorescent and incandescent lighting is an energy efficiency measure with “rapid payback”. “CFLs cost about 75 percent less to operate, and last about 10 times longer.” The fact is, commercial lighting upgrades are among the highest return-on-investment upgrades a business can make. When your company is ready to realize the savings of lighting retrofits, Kirby Electric can help. We specialize in Seattle commercial lighting upgrades.

Be sure you’re doing all you can to light your business efficiently by following these steps.

How to Upgrade Commercial Lighting

  1. Choose a Quality Commercial Electrical Contractor: Choosing a qualified commercial  electrician to install energy-efficient lighting is essential. Sloppy installation jobs and seemingly small mistakes could end up costing you valuable time and money later.
  2. Get a Customized Lighting Solution: The larger the project, the more time and effort you will often need to invest. We work together with your local power company. This means that as much as 50% of the cost of the project could come back to you as a rebate. Contact us for a quote on your project.
  3. Upgrade Old Systems: You do not need to start from scratch in order to improve your business’ lighting efficiency. If your business has pre-existing lighting systems, there are many affordable upgrades you can make. As a  Seattle electrical contractor, we’re happy to meet with you and discuss your options.

The formula for efficient lighting success is, “Technology + Effective Design = Performance and Energy Savings”. The latest proven technology coupled with an effective, efficient design will help your business maximize performance and energy savings.

About Kirby Electric

Kirby Electric Inc. is Seattle’s premier commercial and industrial electrical contractor. For over twenty years Kirby Electric has been helping companies go green and save money. Whether you’re looking for Seattle lighting retrofits or electrical services for your industrial or commercial building, Kirby Electric is here to help. Kirby Electric is a Puget Sound Energy Contractor Alliance Network Certified Specialist. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to request a quote .

11/25/19 This post has been updated to include updated energy efficiency information.

16 Sep 2019
0 Comments By seo@bigfin.com Commercial Lighting, Energy Savings, Green Lighting, LED Lighting, Lighting Retrofits , , , ,

5 Reasons to Switch to LED Lighting

5 Reasons to Switch to LED LightingMany businesses have discovered the benefits of lighting retrofits for their offices, factories, and warehouses. There are many incentives for companies to upgrade. To start with, the United States and governments around the world passed laws to phase out incandescent light bulbs, but there are many other important reasons to upgrade. The top 5 reasons to switch to LED lighting from incandescent lighting include these facts: LED lights last longer, they cost less to use, they’re fully recyclable, they reduce carbon emissions, and rebates help companies retrofit for less.

LED Lights Last Longer

First, an LED light bulb can last 25,000 hours or more. This is 25 times longer than a traditional incandescent light bulb. According to energy.gov, it’s a life of “more than three years if run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.” And this is just one reason why LED lights are a great business investment.

LEDs Cost less to Operate

Also, LEDs don’t get hot like old-fashioned light bulbs. All that unnecessary heat production is really just wasted energy. In fact, according to the government, LED bulbs can cut energy use “by more than 80 percent”.

LED Lights are Fully Recyclable

Older incandescent light bulbs aren’t recyclable. By contrast, LED bulbs are fully recyclable. Also, LEDs don’t contain mercury and other harmful materials like fluorescent lights (CFLs). However, both CFL and LED light bulbs can be disposed of safely in special recycling bins located at local retail stores.

LEDs Reduce Carbon Emissions

If LED lighting was completely implemented in the United States over the next two decades, it would save “$250 billion in energy costs, reduce electricity consumption for lighting by nearly 50 percent and avoid 1,800 million metric tons of carbon emissions,” according to the U.S. government.

Rebates Help Offset Replacement Costs

Puget Sound Energy offers a business lighting incentive program to help offset the cost of LED lighting implementation. The pros at Kirby Electric can help you with your project.

Find Out More

These are just 5 Reasons to Switch to LED Lighting. There are many more. Find out how retrofitting with LED lighting will benefit your business and the planet. Contact us to see just how much you can save by installing LED lighting in your business or to get a quote.

About Kirby Electric

Kirby Electric is a premier Seattle electrical contractor specializing in commercial and industrial electrical contracting. As your local commercial electrician, we can help with any electrical needs when it comes to upgrading older buildings, including equipment hook ups, rewiring or relocating panels, and lighting upgrades. We also work with electrical companies like Puget Sound Energy, Tacoma Public Utilities, Lakeview Power and others that will provide a rebate for upgrading to a more efficient lighting upon approval of the project.

 

18 Sep 2017
LED Lighting Myths
0 Comments By seo@bigfin.com Commercial Buildings, Commercial Lighting, LED Lighting, Lighting Retrofits , , , , , , , ,

5 LED Lighting Myths Debunked by Kirby Electric

Lighting is essential with most everything we do—how we create it varies. Follow along to discover some of the most common and not so common LED lighting myths. Some of them may even surprise you!

LED Lighting Myths #1 – LED Bulbs Are Expensive

This is most definitely an LED lighting myth! Initial costs of LED lighting are usually higher; however, they require less energy to operate. This can result in significantly lower electric bills over time when compared to conventional systems. LED fixtures have a longer life, are more durable, and reliable, meaning they require less maintenance.  Annual lighting costs of LED lighting systems can reduce lighting bills up to 80%!

LED Lighting Myths #2 – LED’s Last Forever

Do LED bulbs really last forever? This is a myth. Like any light source, LED’s will fade over time. Although, well -designed LED lighting packages are said to retain 70% of their initial light output for six years or 50,000 hours. Furthermore, if you run your LED lighting system 24/7, you can expect your lights to last twice as long as fluorescents and many, many times longer than incandescent bulbs.

LED Lighting Myths #3 – LED’s Offer Poor Dimming Capabilities

This is most definitely an LED lighting myth! Kirby Electric’s LED lighting retrofits offer convenient, targeted dimming options based on your facility needs. Our advanced systems provide gradual dimming across a wide range of increments to create the perfect lighting conditions needed to carry out a productive workday.

LED Lighting Myths #4 – LED Bulbs Contain Mercury

LED bulbs absolutely do not contain mercury. Unlike their counterparts such as fluorescent and compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs, which contain hazardous mercury. Inevitable heat released from lighting is also lower with LED lighting. This can be beneficial when building managers are looking to achieve optimal working conditions for employees.

LED Lighting Myths #5 – LED Lighting is Too Blue

This is a common misconception. When LED lighting was initially introduced, the bulbs were heavily scrutinized for producing a harsh, cool light. Thankfully LED lights have evolved and are offered in a wider range of softer, warmer hues. Now there is a bulb for each and every room, depending on the desired ambiance and effect you seek to create.

Kirby Electric is a Premier Electrical Contractor Serving the Greater Seattle Area

As Seattle’s premier electric company, Kirby Electric specializes in commercial and industrial lighting. We provide top electrical services that best fit your building’s needs and present energy management solutions. Such solutions provide economically and environmentally beneficial services. Contact us today and request a quote at (253) 859-2000 or online here to learn more about our services.

20 Jan 2017
0 Comments By seo@bigfin.com Commercial Buildings, Commercial Lighting, Lighting Retrofits , ,

Energy Saving Solutions for Commercial Buildings

It is no secret that energy bills for commercial buildings can run rather high. Moreover, businesses may find it rather difficult to find efficient solutions to reduce them. According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, 20% of the energy consumed nationwide is from commercial buildings. Explore our blog for the top 4 energy saving solutions to help your commercial building reduce energy bills today.

Incorporate Efficient Lighting

One of the easiest and economical ways to reduce energy bills is installing energy efficient lighting solutions. LED technologies continue to improve and advance, which makes energy solutions vaster than ever before. Options include re-lamping, retrofitting, incorporating replacement products, and more for commercial buildings to accomplish substantial savings through efficient lighting.

Implement Reduction Strategies

Two main ways to save money on energy bills are:

  1. Figuring out how to pay for less energy = supply side savings
  2. Figuring out how to use less energy = demand side savings

Shifting energy usage habits will provide great results. Meaning, reducing top demand with more energy efficient lighting, pumps and vital strategic solutions will aide in energy bill savings. The lower the top demand and/or capacity, the less you pay for power.

Energy Usage Analysis

In order to figure out how a commercial building consumes energy, it is imperative to understand the power usage patterns. Understanding where and how energy is consumed can result in reduced energy costs and consumption overall.

Energy Products

Nowadays, one top trend for businesses is to meet sustainability initiatives. For example, implementing wind technology or solar panels are great technologies that reduce energy usage and will help businesses become less dependent on utility companies. For inside, LED light bulbs (light emitting diode) for lamps and other utilities that require light bulbs are beneficial for energy efficiency as well. In comparison, incandescent bulbs cost approximately 5-10 times the initial price of the bulb alone. LED light bulbs will last up to 10 times as long as compact fluorescents and the cost of the bulbs. Overall, smart energy products are efficient ones.

About Kirby Electric

Kirby Electric, Inc. is a premier electrical contractor specializing in commercial and industrial electrical construction. Our dedicated and knowledgeable team of electricians, low voltage technicians and office staff are led by senior leadership whose core philosophy is consistently delivering exceptional service. Kirby Electric offers a wide array of services to meet the needs of our customers and ensure a smooth operation of their facilities. Learn more about our services by calling 253-859-2000.

22 Apr 2016
0 Comments By dev@bigfin.com Green Lighting, Lighting Retrofits , , ,

Incorporate Green Lighting With Lighting Retrofits!

Did you know lighting accounts for more than 25% of energy used in most buildings? Together we can change this. Try making a difference this Earth Day and go green. Get your lighting package upgraded with Kirby Electric’s lighting retrofits. Check out how you can make a difference and what is in it for you.

Safety

As an employer, safety should be a top priority. Poorly lit warehouses can not only be dangerous, but extremely uninviting and unpleasant to work in. Create a more enjoyable and safer atmosphere with a new lighting package supplied and installed by us for you. Plus, well-lit workspaces keep your employees energized throughout the day, potentially increasing productivity!

Lower Utility Bills

Cut costs potentially in half with more efficient warehouse lighting! With over 20 years of experience, we have been on the front end of offering customers the most effective green lighting solutions for their buildings. By opting-in for a greener lighting retrofit, you can save money every time you switch on the lights.

Rebates

When you install green lighting, it can result in to rebates for your office building or warehouse. We work  in concert with the utility companies to provide lighting rebates back to you for implementing upgrades to your lighting.

Customization

Seeking a unique look and feel for your office space? We offer experienced administration, estimators, a design specialist and project managers that work with general contractors and owners to present a comprehensive green lighting design with competitive pricing.

The Planet!

Do your part. Give back to the planet by cutting down on energy consumption in your warehouse or office building. Some of our projects have reduced energy consumption by over 50 percent! Remember, resources are limited. This Earth Day, discover your options for green lighting with Kirby Electric.

About Kirby Electric

Kirby Electric, Inc. is a premier electrical contractor specializing in commercial and industrial electrical construction. Our dedicated and knowledgeable team of electricians, low voltage technicians and office staff are led by senior leadership whose core philosophy is consistently delivering exceptional service. Kirby Electric offers a wide array of services to meet the needs of our customers and ensure a smooth operation of their facilities. Learn more about our services by calling 253-859-2000 or contacting us online.

14 May 2015
0 Comments By dev@bigfin.com Lighting Retrofits, Services , ,

5 Summer Energy-Saving Solutions

Simply creating air movement can make an area more comfortable
Simply creating air movement can make an area more comfortable

Just when the heating bills have begun to lower, a new season of potential energy costs starts up. While longer days call for less use of TVs, light switches, and even ovens, the costs of maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature can add up. How do you enjoy the season and avoid steep bills? Try these summer energy-saving solutions in your home or business.

1. Circulate

Whether you’re trying to find ways to keep cool without an AC unit, or you have one and simply want to down usage costs, try this tip from the California Energy Commission: ceiling fans make the temperature feel at least four degrees cooler.

2. Insulate

Insulation is just as important in the summer, when you want to trap cool air indoors. While an air leakage might be easier to spot in the winter, you can still identify gaps or other compromised areas around places like windows and doors that allow for air to transfer. Inspect your house thoroughly. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends using a flashlight at night to identify possible problem areas. They also suggest rattling doors and windows; an unsecure opening can be an opportunity for air flow.

3. Stock Up

This tip works equally well for offices and homes. The California Energy Commission advises that a filled refrigerator actually helps your appliance run more efficiently. When a refrigerator is less full, it takes more effort to maintain the temperature. So instead of throwing out food immediately, consider that keeping shelves stocked can actually help reduce energy needed.

4. Cover Up

An alternative to keeping blinds closed to direct sunlight is installing solar window film. Window film can help keep hot rays from reaching the inside of your office or home, plus it’ll help cut down on the bright glare that makes reading computer screens difficult during peak sunlight hours.

5. Audit

How much energy is your business losing? What kind of savings could you have if you implemented more efficient practices? Installing efficient lighting and electrical systems could reduce your energy bills. An energy audit is the way to determine potential savings. Kirby Electric can assess your business’ current system and needs. Even newer buildings can benefit from energy-saving solutions, and if your office is older, the savings could be even more drastic. Schedule an energy audit by calling 253-859-2000.

About Kirby Electric

Kirby Electric is a premier Seattle electrical contractor specializing in commercial and industrial electrical contracting. As your local commercial electrician, we can help with any electrical needs when it comes to upgrading older buildings, including equipment hook ups, rewiring or relocating panels, and lighting upgrades. We also work with electrical companies like Puget Sound Energy, Tacoma Public Utilities, Lakeview Power and others that will provide a rebate for upgrading to a more efficient lighting upon approval of the project. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to get a quote.

(Image Courtesy of FrameAngel via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

05 Mar 2015
0 Comments By dev@bigfin.com Commercial Lighting, Lighting Retrofits , , , , ,

4 Tips for Business Energy Efficiency

Business energy efficiency tips
The Give Grid is an Australian project and website offering ways to save energy. The project provides benefits like free workshops, webinars, and plenty of information available on energy-saving. Because business energy efficiency can directly affect a company’s bottom line, finding ways to implement office retrofits and updates can be crucial.

On its site The Give Grid provides energy audits of various buildings around Australia. By showing efficiency opportunities for existing buildings, The Give Grid seeks to create models other businesses can follow to cut back on energy. Here are some tips culled from energy audits and The Give Grid to help increase your office’s efficiency.

Tip 1: Upgrade to LED

An energy audit of a 4,300-square-foot, single-story brick building revealed that 17% of annual energy costs went towards lighting. Part of the solution? Trading fluorescent tube lights for LEDs. Don’t overlook any lighting—you can even replace fluorescent exit signs with LED fixtures.

Tip 2: Unplug Equipment

A top-floor office space around 17,000-square-feet that houses 45 employees revealed a huge opportunity for energy savings. The office’s audit showed that computers, printers, and similar electronics pulled a significant amount of power—approximately half of the location’s energy. Part of the fix? Turning off equipment whenever possible.

Even when off or in standby or “sleep” mode, equipment can still eat energy. In this case of this office, 8% of the yearly electrical bill was for standby power. Solve this problem by unplugging equipment when possible so that it doesn’t have the opportunity to continue using power. Talk with your office’s IT department about whether you can unplug electronics like computers overnight to stop this energy loss.

Tip 3: Make Windows Energy-Efficient

For buildings with many windows or glass walls, like this Tasmania structure that was audited, energy film, lined curtains, and other window treatments designed to control temperature are recommended. Better controlled temperature means employees are less likely to be reaching for the thermostat and increasing energy costs.

Tip 4: Retrofit Watercoolers and Vending Machines

A common tip from the office audits was to add timers to vending machines and water coolers to save energy usage outside of business hours. The lighting and cooling capacities of vending machines utilize energy that isn’t needed when employees are out of the building for extended periods.

Update your office for energy savings that can balance your bottom line. Kirby Electric is experienced in updating existing or outdated systems and installing commercial lighting and electrical systems. See some of the businesses we’ve helped power around Washington.

About Kirby Electric

Kirby Electric is a premier Seattle electrical contractor specializing in commercial and industrial electrical contracting. As your local commercial electrician, we can help with any electrical needs when it comes to upgrading older buildings, including equipment hook ups, rewiring or relocating panels, and lighting upgrades. We also work with electrical companies like Puget Sound Energy, Tacoma Public Utilities, Lakeview Power and others that will provide a rebate for upgrading to a more efficient lighting upon approval of the project. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to get a quote.

(Image Courtesy of khunaspix via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

25 Feb 2015
0 Comments By dev@bigfin.com Electric News, Lighting Retrofits , , ,

Renewable Energy Gets Greener

Renewable Energy Gets Greener
Engineered trees could complement the ecological benefits of trees like this in urban areas

News outlet CNN recently reported on an inventive way for nature and technology to meet—in a steel tree designed to generate power for heating, lighting, and charging.

CNN writes that the French “Arbre a Vent,” the tree created to turn air into energy, has changed preconceptions on what renewable energy really looks like. The goal is simple: to turn air currents into energy wherever possible, particularly in cities where practical and aesthetic needs call for an alternative to traditional devices such as wind turbines.

A prototype of the artistic tree will be “planted” in Paris for two months starting mid-March, and developments and ideas will continue to flow as a result of its innovation in wind power. On the horizon, according to company engineer Julia Revuz, are “mini wind turbines” that could fit into a variety of crowded urban landscapes.

Something From Nothing: Renewable Energy

The idea of using a plentiful resource (wind) to create energy has motivated eco-friendly thinking for years. Last year we learned about the possibility of creating electricity from garbage, and Vermont’s City of Burlington managed to receive their power exclusively from natural sources: water, wind, and biomass (material from organisms, usually plants), ThinkProgress reported.

Get More Efficient

Retrofitting means enhancing or adding to something existing. In the electricity industry, retrofits are especially necessary in older buildings that don’t have today’s advanced electrical systems. Newer electrical systems not only save operating costs, but they also focus on eco-friendly output. Looking at warehouse electrical costs, Kirby Electric discovered a way for a poorly lit warehouse to save nearly $10,000 yearly, and install brighter lights that make working conditions safer and more productive.

Learn more about lighting retrofits and how they could change the way you do business.

About Kirby Electric

Kirby Electric is a premier Seattle electrical contractor specializing in commercial and industrial electrical contracting. As your local commercial electrician, we can help with any electrical needs when it comes to upgrading older buildings, including equipment hook ups, rewiring or relocating panels, and lighting upgrades. We also work with electrical companies like Puget Sound Energy, Tacoma Public Utilities, Lakeview Power and others that will provide a rebate for upgrading to a more efficient lighting upon approval of the project. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to get a quote.

(Image by rakratchada torsap via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

21 Oct 2014
0 Comments By dev@bigfin.com Energy Savings, Lighting Retrofits , , , , ,

Kirby Electric Can Help You Get Electrical Rebates

Electrical Rebates

Did you know Kirby Electric can work in tandem with your power company to help you obtain rebates for energy efficient lighting upgrades? If you’re interested in installing energy efficient equipment and lighting in a commercial or industrial facility, we recommend talking to your power company to explore what rebates and financial incentives are available.

From simple rebates to sizable incentives for large, complex projects, electric utilities have a variety of ways to lighten the financial burden for businesses who take significant steps to reduce their energy use through a lighting retrofit or major new construction project. Here are a couple examples:

Seattle City Light Electrical Rebates and Incentives

electrical rebates

Seattle City Light offers financial incentives to medium and large businesses who have energy efficient equipment and lighting installed. Depending on the project, incentives can go up to 70% of the installation cost. Energy-saving solutions that are eligible for rebates and incentives pertain to lighting, HVAC, controls, transformers, glazing and insulation as well as industrial process improvements.

It’s important to note that all incentives must be approved by Seattle City Light before your business has these upgrades installed, as incentive amounts are finalized through an advance contract with the utility.

Puget Sound Energy Electrical Rebates, Grants and Programs

electrical rebatees

Puget Sound Energy also offers many different energy efficiency rebates to the commercial and industrial electric customers located within PSE’s electric service area. Instant rebates for commercial lighting are available through their Lighting to Go Rebate for those who swap in old lighting for more energy efficient LEDs. For this rebate, you must have your rebate application approved, have the equipment installed, and send over all necessary documentation before PSE will send you your rebate check.

PSE also offers a Business Lighting Incentive Program that covers up to 70% of the project for any project that qualifies as an Enhanced Lighting Project. For existing buildings, custom lighting retrofits can receive payment for up to 50% of the installed cost. For new construction commercial/industrial projects, grants and rebates can fund up to 100% of the incremental cost (the cost difference between the standard option and the high-efficiency option). Projects must be submitted to PSE for pre-approval before work begins on the project.

About Kirby Electric

Kirby Electric is a premier Seattle electrical contractor specializing in commercial and industrial electrical contracting. As your local commercial electrician, we can help with any electrical needs when it comes to upgrading older buildings, including equipment hook ups, rewiring or relocating panels, and lighting upgrades. We also work with electrical companies like Puget Sound Energy, Tacoma Public Utilities, Lakeview Power and others that will provide a rebate for upgrading to a more efficient lighting upon approval of the project. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to get a quote.

(Top image by ponsulak via FreeDigitalPhotos.net)

23 Sep 2014
0 Comments By dev@bigfin.com Electric News, Lighting Retrofits , , ,

LEDs Expected to Change the Night Skies of Major U.S. Cities

LEDs

Major U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, Boston and Seattle are slowly replacing their existing city street lights with more energy-efficient LED lights, a move that is already changing the way these cities look at night, according to a recent article in Forbes. Now, instead of the heavy orange glow people were accustomed to seeing at night when flying in to a city like L.A., a cool silver glow illuminates the city below, leading to blacker skies and brighter streets.

Can LEDs Cut Back on Light Pollution?

LEDs

Aside from enjoying the long-term energy savings of LEDs, many large cities are also hoping to reduce light pollution, a growing concern as our industrial civilization introduces more and more artificial light sources into our once-starry skies, the article indicated. While LEDs by themselves may not reduce light pollution, proponents believe that the true benefit of LEDs is calibrating them to use less light over all. For example, LEDs can also be connected to motion sensors, which can conceivably be used to scale back on lighting when there is no activity on the ground below.

Benefits of LEDs

It’s not surprising that major cities are willing to take on the heavy upfront costs of LED lights once the benefits are considered, which include the following:

  • While LEDs cost significantly more up front than traditional city streetlights, they last significantly longer and emit two to three times more light per watt.
  • Emitting more light per watt means LEDs can provide between 30% and 70% savings on electricity costs in a single year.
  • The digital chips that make up LEDs are only expected to get cheaper over the years.
  • LEDs can also be programmed for other purposes, allowing cities to monitor crime, track the location of power outages and even coordinate disaster relief efforts. Experts are already predicting a boom in lighting controls once LEDs flood the market.

Kirby Electric Provides Lighting Retrofits

While it’s encouraging to see municipalities investing in a cleaner environment for future generations, Kirby Electric has also noticed the move toward energy efficiency on a smaller scale — with our commercial and industrial customers. We are proud to help provide lighting retrofits for our customers that reduce energy costs while boosting the quality of the light in their facilities. We excel at designing state-of-the-art lighting packages that are low-maintenance and are “greener” overall.

About Kirby Electric

Kirby Electric is a premier electrical contractor in Seattle specializing in commercial and industrial electrical contracting. As your local industrial electrician, we can help with any electrical needs when it comes to upgrading older buildings, including equipment hook ups, rewiring or relocating panels, and lighting upgrades. We also work with electrical companies like Puget Sound Energy, Tacoma Public Utilities, Lakeview Power and others that will provide a rebate for upgrading to a more efficient lighting upon approval of the project. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to get a quote.

(Images via Forbes.com)