● Are you using the right lighting products for the right applications?

● Are you using the most energy-efficient products, therefore minimizing your energy bills? 

If you said no to any of these, you may want to look into a lighting-service company. Although some outlets may choose to service and maintain their own facilities, there are options for those who want a cost-effective and reliable alternative. Imagine not having to worry about a light that needs servicing, having a store where products are well-lit and the mood is aesthetically pleasing— that’s the peace of mind you’ll have when working with the right lighting-service provider. Here are 10 things to consider when looking for a lighting-service company:

1. Look for a service company comprised of experts who create original, sustainable lighting
designs that incorporate energy efficiency, long life and excellent color in both indoor and outdoor applications.

2. Adequate lighting design and maintenance allows retailers to keep their costs down without sacrificing lighting quality. Your service company should understand that in a retail setting, reliable high-quality lighting can attract customers and help generate sales.

3. Smart retailers present their merchandise in ways that reflect a specific lifestyle, by using lighting systems that combine the latest energy-efficient, linear and compact-fluorescent technologies with bright, white halogen and metal-halide light sources on electronic ballasts. Every store has different needs, customers and personalities; therefore, each should have a custom lighting design specified by a professional.

4. Well-implemented lighting strategies can lead to efficiencies that can improve your bottom line. Your service company should understand and comply with your company’s environmental and/or energy regulations. It also should be conscious of any and all environmental regulations specific to your state and the service being provided.

5. Your lighting-service company should be able to perform energy audits, design a customized relamp/ retrofit lighting plan and manage utility-rebate programs that may be available. Each of these services will result in lower costs for you and your customers.

6. Your lighting-service company should have a modern, easy-to-use Web-based service-tracking system you can access 24 hours a day, seven days a week—allowing you to stay informed about your orders, your service and your facilities’ lighting needs.

7. Although most see lighting as an aesthetic attribute, your lighting-service company should recognize the effect lighting has on security. Employees leaving late at night need to feel they are safe in back rooms and parking lots. The right lighting—not just bright lighting—can be a strong deterrent of crime.

8. If you have a chain store with locations across the country, a national lighting-service company allows all of your locations to be serviced by the same group of properly trained professionals. This will allow your retail outlets to be consistent in appearance and feel, coast to coast.

9. A well-established and customer-focused lighting-service company should be available around the clock for all of your lighting needs.

10. Your lighting-service company should have a good reputation in its industry—being known for positive attributes such as a long history of success, friendly and prompt customer service, and knowledge of your needs and business.

The lighting-service company that can fulfill these needs will be the right company for you and your facility.