When outfitting any new construction project such as a hotel, commercial space, or public institution with lighting, contractors understand there isn’t one type of LED that’s perfect for every room, hallway, and outdoor area. Lighting is a big part of both a building’s energy consumption and aesthetic appeal, but also safety. For example, different LED lightbulbs and fixtures are intended for certain, specific uses depending on the way they were manufactured and rated. One key example of this lies in LED lighting for wet, indoor environments.
Wet Location LED Lighting Fixtures
Some, not all, LED fixtures are made specifically for wet locations such as hotel showers, utility rooms, indoor pool areas, or over bathtubs. Look for the UL Wet Location on the packaging of LED lights and fixtures, indicating their intended use. UL stands for the Underwriters Laboratories, an independent product safety certification organization. Not all lamps and lighting items that are sold in the US market are UL certified, so it’s important to pay attention and read labels. Underwriters Laboratories establishes strict standards for compliance and comprehensive product testing within the lighting industry.
Some products may also be tested by Intertek and carry at ETL listed mark. Intertek also tests to strict UL certification standards before applying the ETL label. Looking for an ETL or UL rating on products can help you choose the most appropriate fixture for your application.
Only lighting marked “Suitable for Wet Locations” can be used in wet locations, indoors or outdoors. A wet location is an interior or exterior space where water or any kind of liquid may rain, drip or splash, on or very near the lighting fixture.
Ideal UL Wet Location Listed Lighting from EarthTronics
Here are a couple examples of common EarthTronics LED lighting fixtures and bulbs that are for use in wet spaces.
Downlight LED Fixtures
EarthTronics IC-Rated LED Recessed Downlight Fixture is available in 4″ diameter, 3000K, 4000K and 5000K color of light. It can be easily installed in finished drywall or architectural tile ceilings in facilities such as schools, hospitals, office buildings and other commercial and residential applications. The new LED fixtures are IC-rated for use in insulated ceilings, meet IECC air leakage requirements and provide a versatile and attractive downlight product series. The ETL Wet Location listing makes this product a perfect solution for long-term care facilities, as well as hotel guest room showers.
Mini Panel Lights
Ideal for new and renovated office buildings, hotels, hospitals, long-term care facilities, dormitories and homes, Mini Panel LEDs are available in 5.5-, 7- and 9- inch square and round designs in 11-, 14-, and 17-watts, producing 700, 900 and 1200 lumens respectively. The 3000K and 4000K models boast an impressive 90+ CRI. The panels operate on 120VAC 60 Hz and are compatible with standard incandescent dimmer controls, providing consistent dimming from 5 to 100 percent. Interior applications include surface ceiling, downlight retrofit and wall sconce for hallways, corridors, and general room illumination. The IP65 wet-rated, Mini Panel LEDs also provide a practical a solution for bathroom showers. Additionally, they can be used in outdoor horizontal or vertical applications in walkway canopies or soffits since these LED fixtures operate in extreme temperatures from -40°F to 105°F.
We also carry lighting solutions for dry and damp locations. Wondering what kind of EarthBulb or EarthTronics fixture is right for your next project? Give our representatives a call, we’d love to talk with you and identify how we can help take your build from good to great.
Sources:
http://homerous.com/what-exactly-do-ul-ratings-mean/
https://www.lumens.com/how-tos-and-advice/ul-ratings.html
