What types of directional accent are available?
Directional accent lights are classified as either high voltage or low voltage. Both offer key benefits depending on where they are used. Commercial clients almost unanimously favor high voltage accent lighting systems because of their ability to support HID (High Intensity Discharge) fixtures. As it is especially necessary in many corporate facilities to use light as a unifying force between architecture and nature, brighter directional accent lights play a big role by clearly showcasing fountains, atrium's, walkways, and even lakes on larger commercial campuses.

Are low voltage lights just as good as high voltage lights?
In smaller areas they are not only just as good, but even better. The average residential lot requires more color and affect than high intensity luminosity. Private homeowners tend to prefer a low voltage system for this reason. Also, low voltage directional lights save money simply because they require less power to operate. Considering as well that many residences decorate extensively with gardens and pathways, low voltage offers a greater level of control over color and effect—two very key aspects to this science that cannot be emphasized enough. Many residential accent lighting fixtures also feature dimmable lights that can be altered to create mood as well as effect simply by raising or lowering the level of output.

How do I know which fixture to choose?
Weather conditions and atmospheric saline content should be foremost in your mind when you choose directional accent lighting fixtures. Aluminum is the most cost effective material for both homeowners and companies on a fixed budget. Plastic composite, copper, and brass fixtures are ideal for atmospheres, which contain high levels of salt, such as those, found along the American Gulf Coast. Selecting directional accent lights in this fashion makes it simple to develop an outdoor lighting system that keynotes all the important elements of a facility or yard. The only remaining determination to choose is that of light source itself.

Am I limited to one bulb type as my only source of light?
Not necessarily. It really depends more on the subject being illuminated and the wattage vs light output needed to properly accent that subject. First determine what matters most to you in your landscape, then use the guidelines below to choose your light source.

Fluorescent Lights
Fluorescent technology creates a stable, bright light that makes for an excellent floodlight for either emphasizing larger areas of the landscape or for security lighting around the perimeter of a property.

Halogen Lights
Halogens cast a slightly golden “aura” around the subject, making them ideal low voltage effect lights for pathways, atrium's, and gardens.

Incandescent Lights
Incandescent lights are ideal for decorative commercial and residential accent and directional lighting and can also operate on timers and dimmer switches for varied lighting effects.

Mercury Vapor Lights and Metal Halide Lights
Commercial clients should strongly consider lighting perimeters with these HID, or Intensity Discharge lights. They are extremely efficient in the amount of light they output versus the actual wattage required to produce that light. They are excellent for highlighting tree lines and keynote architectural characteristics of buildings.

Click here to study our online inventory for detailed product specifications on every light source and fixture we carry. You may also call 800-239-2939 for assistance or help selecting a fixture.