My last 2 articles had to do with taking control of your lighting through dimmers. Now, I’d like to introduce you to another way of taking control by installing occupancy sensors. There are several types of occupancy sensors available. The ones I will be showcasing here are manufactured by Lutron®.

The first one is a wall mounted sensor. These are great as a replacement for wall switches. You just press the button and as long as the sensor detects motion, the lights will remain on. Then after you leave the room the lights will shut themselves off. This is great for kid’s rooms (or forgetful adults) who take off without turning off the lights. But what if you are around the corner, in the shower, or somehow hidden from being detected by the wall mounted version?

Then I’d recommend the ceiling mounted type, shown here. I also specify these for pantries or closets. That way, as the door is being opened, motion is detected, and the lights come on. Kind of like when you open the refrigerator door and it’s interior light comes on. There a plunger trips the lights but… oops, sorry if I spoiled the surprise.

Until recently you had to decide if you wanted a dimmer or an occupancy sensor (unless you live in California, in which case, Title-24 energy codes defines/dictates the usage and locations of light bulbs/lamps, dimmers, and occupancy sensors). But my dreams came true with the addition of this little beauty… the combination dimmer/occupancy sensor. Most people won’t appreciate the significance of why this is such a magical device, but for those folks who live in California, who have to keep complying with more and more restrictions, this item solves a lot of issues.

So if your answer to the question, “Are you there?” is, “Yes”, then enjoy the lights. If the answer is, “No”, then enjoy the energy/money you’ll be saving by installing lighting controls.

My next article is about a lighting product that doesn’t even require electricity.

Vicky M. Lodge, Allied Member ASID 

VML Design & Lighting

www.vmldesignandlighting.com 

863.248.2300