Address Your Customers’ Winter Lighting Needs

Submitted by Shari Kelly and Audrey Erickson, Xcel Energy Business Lighting Program Managers

 

As winter approaches and daylight hours shorten, ensuring the performance and visibility of your customers’ commercial LED lighting becomes increasingly vital. For businesses, clear, well-maintained signage not only represents their brand but also plays a key role in safety. This guide will discuss why it is important to help your customers to prepare their signage for the winter months and how professional maintenance services can keep their business shining bright.

The Importance of Winter Lighting for Businesses:

• LED lighting serves more than just a functional purpose. It provides a variety of benefits that are crucial for businesses during the darker, colder months. Extended nighttime hours can make it more challenging to locate businesses. Properly lit signage acts as a guiding beacon, helping customers find their location even in low-visibility conditions. It is not just about aesthetics—clear signage improves accessibility, making businesses more inviting during long, dark nights.
• Well-lit signage does not just guide—it also protects. Proper illumination can light up surrounding areas, such as sidewalks and entryways, reducing the risk of accidents. Inspect parking lot lighting regularly, as it plays an equally key role in ensuring customer safety. By maintaining consistent, bright lighting, you will help your customers to create a secure environment for anyone visiting their establishment.
• During winter months, signage spends more time in "night mode.” A brand’s perception during these extended dark hours can have a lasting impact. A single malfunctioning light bulb or dim section can negatively affect how customers view a brand’s quality. Bright, well-maintained signs reflect a business that takes pride in its appearance and values its customers.
• As the days grow shorter, a few routine checks can help ensure that signage remains functional and inviting throughout the winter.
• Inspect your customers’ LED lights regularly. Promptly replace burnt-out bulbs or dim LED strips. Also, pay attention to any color inconsistencies in lights that change hues. For example, if a sign uses RGB (red, green, blue) diodes, set each color individually to check for burnout or dimming.
• Debris, such as dirt, leaves, or even insects, can block light and create unsightly dark spots on signs. These issues become more noticeable at night. Be sure to clear any obstructions from your customers’ signage, including cobwebs and bird nests, which can be especially distracting when illuminated.
• Cold weather can exacerbate existing signage problems. Inspect for rust, cracked casings, or other damage that could worsen over winter. Taking preventative action now can help avoid costly repairs later.

Visit Xcel Energy’s website for more information on Business Lighting Efficiency programs.