Choosing the Perfect Ceiling Fan

by admin · Dec 16, 2022

When carefully chosen, a unique ceiling fan will add to your home’s beauty, value, and ultimately save you money. Whether you are shopping for your first fan or you’re updating an old-fashioned relic, the process can be enough to make anyone’s head spin. Fans should be functional as well as attractive, but it’s easy to get buried in all of the expert recommendations and lighting lingo. If you give up and just pick the first fan you see that matches your room, you could be setting yourself for disappointment. Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind when searching for the perfect fan to complete your space:

Location

Before you do anything, you need to decide which areas in your home need better airflow and temperature control. Every house has a room or two that’s always hotter than the rest of the house! Also, consider putting a fan in the spaces where you entertain. When you have guests over it’s nice to be able to get the air moving to keep your guests comfortable.

Looking for outdoor fans? Pay attention to the rating. Wet rated fans have a special coating to help avoid water damage and rust. If your fan may come in direct contact with ocean spray, rain, or snow, a wet rated fan is what you need. Damp rated fans aren’t meant to come in direct contact with water, so they’re better suited to covered patio areas.

Outdoor fans can be used anywhere, but you should never hang an indoor fan outside.

Size

Once you’ve picked the perfect spot for your fan, take a look at the size of the space it needs to cool. Is it for a smaller space like a bedroom, or a larger area like a living room with vaulted ceilings? If your fan is too large, it will overpower your room and make it feel like you’re in a wind tunnel. If it’s too small, it won’t be able to move the air in the room, which will leave you disappointed.

Ceiling fans are measured by the diameter of the blades, and there are a couple of ways you can figure out which size is right for you. The first option is to measure the longest wall in the room.

Wall Length	Fan Size
12 ft or less	36 in or less
12-15 ft	40-48 in
15 ft or more	52 in or more

The second option is to calculate the square footage of your room. Most manufacturers have recommendations right on the box based on square footage, so you’ll definitely want to know that number!

Square Footage	Fan Size
Up to 100 sq. ft.	18” – 42”
100 – 225 sq. ft.	42” – 52”
225 – 400 sq. ft.	52” and up
Over 400 sq. ft.	Multiple fans

Height

The next step is to find the perfect height to hang your fan, and it all depends on the height of your ceilings. So grab a friend and pull out that tape measure!

If you have high, vaulted, sloped ceilings, you’ll need a downrod fan. A downrod is the metal bar that separates a ceiling fan from the ceiling itself. It’s purpose is to move the fan to the sweet spot in a room where it can circulate the air the most effectively.*

Ceiling Height	Downrod Length
10 ft	12 in
11 ft	18 in
12 ft	24 in
13 ft	36 in
14 ft	48 in
15 ft	60 in
16 ft	72 in

*If your ceiling fan includes a light kit, reduce the length of the downrod by 12”

For more standard, 8-10 foot ceilings, you should look into a flush mount ceiling fan, often called a hugger. It does just what it sounds like: hugs the ceiling so the blades stay safely above the average person’s head.

Light Kit

Most – but not all – ceiling fans come with a light kit, making it a multi-purpose fixture. The blades circulate air and the light kit provides ambient light. If you’re replacing a light fixture with a ceiling fan, double check your fan to make sure it comes with lights so that you don’t end up in the dark!

Style

Now that you’ve laid the groundwork, you’re ready to find your fan. Ceiling fans are a lot harder to swap out that throw pillows, so it’s really important to pick out a fan that matches your style! Here are some things to consider:

1. Light shades: This is the hardware that covers the bulbs on the light kit. Some shades are clear, providing ample light, while others have a more frosted look to soften to the glow. They come in a wide variety of shapes and styles, so don’t be afraid to ask around if you don’t immediately see something you love at our showroom!. Our lighting experts can get you pointed in the right direction quickly so that you don’t have to waste hours of your life comparison shopping online!

2. Blades: Fan blades come in a variety of finishes, including black, white, natural, oak, etc. Many fans have double sided blades, so that you can try both options in your space and choose the one you like best.

3. Hardware: Fan housings and hardware typically come in metallic hues like brushed nickel, chrome, bronze, or a painted color like black or white. Take a look at the other finishings in your room – if the handles and doorknobs in your room are silver, you probably won’t want gold hardware on your fan. Similarly, a sleek fan with black blades and chrome hardware would feel out of place in a country cottage.

If you see a fan that you love but the finishes are off, don’t be afraid to ask! Many ceiling fan models are available in more than one set of finishes.

Efficiency

Did you know that an inefficient ceiling fan will cost you money on your electric bill every month? To avoid this costly mistake, consider these tips:

Look for Energy Star rated fans. These fans can use up to 20 percent less energy, helping you reduce your energy bill.
Think airflow. An underpowered fan will need to be left on at all times to keep a room cool. An overpowered fan will use more energy than you need. Make sure your fan is properly sized for your space.
Change the blade direction. Nearly every ceiling fan will have a small switch near the blades that will change which direction they spin. In the summer, run your fan counterclockwise. This pushes air downwards, which creates a cool breeze in the room. In the winter, run your fan clockwise. This pulls air upwards, which pushes the warm air trapped near the ceiling back down into the room.

Finding the right fan doesn’t have to be a headache. If you follow these steps, you can feel confident in knowing that you are choosing the best ceiling fan for your room.

Come on in and see us! You can check out your new fan in person before you take it home to make sure it’s exactly what you want! And our lighting specialists are happy to help you with any step along the way, from choosing to installing the perfect ceiling fan for your home.

Trending: Mix it Up with Minimalist Lighting

by admin · Dec 9, 2022

Some interior design trends come and go so quickly that it’s hard to understand how they were ever popular (we’re looking at you, 1970s orange shag carpet).

Fortunately, some trends have a little bit more staying power. Minimalism is a timeless design trend that we just can’t stop coming back to. It’s all about doing more with less, and making a clean space where you have room to live your life to the fullest.

If your space needs a refresh and you’re not sure where to start, adding a touch of minimalism might be just what you need! The good news is, you don’t need to go all in and chuck everything in a closet to get the look! Take a look at what you have, then start looking for alternatives that feel more simple. It’s easy!

For example: Swap out your ornate coffee table with a simpler version, or just remove it altogether to open up the space. Trade out busy wall art with a piece that has fewer colors or shapes. Put away some of the tchotchkes you have laying around. Little things like these can have a big impact!

One of the hottest home decor trends we see right now is adding a bold touch of minimalism with lighting! Minimalist light fixtures are simple, unassuming, and stunning in the right context. Whether your home is mid-century mod, boho, or an eclectic mix that’s all your own, there’s a minimalist fixture out there that will fit seamlessly into your space.

Want to see how it works? We curated this list just for you, with some of the best ways to add minimalist-inspired lighting to your home. Remember, the beauty of minimalism is that less is more – start with one idea and see where it takes you!

Simple Lamps

*^{Shcherban Oleksandr/Shutterstock.com}*

One of the easiest ways to add minimalist lighting to your home is with a clean and simple lamp. Find floor or table lamps that are made of simple shapes like cylinders, rectangles, and circles. The fewer shapes there are in the design, the more minimalist it will feel in your space.

Sometimes a new shade will give an old lamp a completely new personality! If you’re not ready to commit to replacing your lamps, try just replacing the shade. Look for pattern-free lamp shades in simple shapes, and avoid any dangling crystals or tassels.

Unconventional Pendants

One of the best ways to declutter your space is to remove as much furniture from the floor as you can. While things like beds and couches need to stay, a floor or table lamp can go if you install a pendant light!

Pendant lights have long been used over bars in kitchens, but there are no rules against finding more creative places to put them! One of our favorite places is right over your nightstand, which clears off the space for your favorite book. You’ll need to hire an electrician to run electrical wire to the right places, but the jaw-dropping results will be totally worth it.

Pendant lights come in a massive selection of sizes, colors, shapes, and finishes, so you’re guaranteed to be able to find one you love!

Statement Sconces

Sconces are another great floor-space-saving minimalist lighting option. You see them most often in bathrooms above the mirror, but they can be used in so many other ways!

A pair of well-placed sconces will bathe your room’s best feature with light, like an accent wall or fireplace. A single wall light near your favorite chair will create a cozy reading nook. A row of sconces can dress up a boring hallway.

Stick to something low-profile in high traffic areas like hallways. For places like over the sink or bathroom counter, your sconce can take up more space. Look for fixtures that have a minimalist base, and shades made from basic shapes like globes, cones, or cylinders.

Bare Bulb Fixtures

The bare bulb minimalist lighting trend is very hot, but can also be a little polarizing. They often come with rustic Edison bulbs, but you don’t have to keep them if they’re not your style. You’d be surprised at how quickly a light fixture can go from farmhouse chic to modern with a new set of light bulbs! Go for a more modern globe-shaped style bulb to create the perfect blend of old and new.

The bare bulb trend isn’t for everyone and that’s okay! Get a similar look with a light fixture with clear glass shades surrounding the bulbs. They’ll help to diffuse and soften the light.

Hidden Lights

You don’t have to be able to see a fixture for it to have a stunning impact. LED light strips give off soft light from out of sight, which makes your space feel luxurious and custom-made.

They’re inexpensive, easy to install, and can go almost anywhere that you want to give some extra oomph. You’ve probably already seen them under kitchen wall cabinets, where they shine light on the countertop to make cooking easier… but did you know that they can go almost anywhere?

Install them as back lighting behind your TV, headboard, or bathroom mirror. Illuminate the floor with light strips on the toe kicks in your kitchen and bathroom. Make your storage more functional with light strips on closet shelving or built-in bookshelves. Line your teenager’s room with a color-changing remote-controlled LED light strip so their room can change with their moods. The options are limitless!

Recessed Lighting

Also called can lights, recessed lights are installed up and inside your ceiling, so they light your room without any visual clutter.

Recessed lights are really versatile- they work with every design style, and can go in any room in the house. Plus, the latest technology for these lights is awesome. LED recessed lights give off virtually no heat, which makes them incredibly safe. They also come in dimmable and color-changing options, so you can switch up the atmosphere in your room with just the touch of a button.

Color Coordinate

If buying all new light fixtures isn’t in your budget just yet, don’t dismay! With just a weekend or two and some basic supplies, you can give the lights you already have a minimalist makeover.

Choose a finish that you love like matte black or brushed nickel, and head to your hardware store for some sandpaper and spray paint. Any light fixture can be repainted – just tape off the electrical components and glass shades before you get started! Don’t forget to turn off your power at the breaker box before taking down wired fixtures!

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel – take a look around your space and choose a finish that will work with what you have. This will unify your space and make it feel more streamlined and clean. We love how well these black porch lights play off the black trim on the windows!

Choose One and Get Started!

No matter how you embrace minimalism in your lighting, it’s guaranteed to make your home feel more streamlined and clean. Remember, less is more with minimalist lighting, so keep it simple to make it stunning!

If you need help finding the perfect minimalist lamp or need a recommendation for a trustworthy electrician to install that new pendant or recessed light, give us a call! Our lighting experts know all of the ins and outs of minimalist lighting – and we’re excited to help you get started!

Create a Balanced Home with Warm Light

by admin · Dec 2, 2022

Did you know that the color of the lights in your home has an affect on your health? Both your sleep and your mental health can be influenced by the type of light you’re exposed to during the day, and it’s about more than just the lightbulbs in your bedside lamp. In 2020, people spent an average of 13 or more hours a day on screens. Many of us are struggling to fall asleep at night, we’re less productive, and we’re noticing that our emotions are a lot closer to the surface. Parents are seeing their children struggle with emotional regulation. While these issues are multifaceted, the links to overexposure to blue light can be seen across the board. Consciously introducing warm light into the home could be a simple, yet powerful part of creating a healthier and happier home.

The Difference Between Blue and Red Light

Light is made up of many different wavelengths, which our eyes perceive as colors. Each color correlates to a color temperature on a spectrum from low energy (red) to high (blue). Light from each part of the spectrum reacts with our eyes and brain in a unique way and affects the way they function.

Blue light has high energy and its color temperature is around 5000+ Kelvin (K). As the Kelvins go higher, the light appears cooler, or more blue. Many people associate blue light with harsh fluorescent bulbs, but we get most of our blue light exposure from a more natural source – the sun! Most screens, from laptops to televisions to cell phones, emit blue light as well. Red light is on the opposite side of the spectrum. It has lower energy and its color temperature ranges between 2700-3000K. Red light is more commonly called warm light. Imagine the light given off by a candle’s flame or an Edison bulb, this is red light. This type of light plays a crucial role in a well-balanced home by regulating both the health and the mood of its inhabitants.

How Light Affects Your Sleep

The human body runs according to a circadian rhythm, or a 24-hour cycle. This rhythm regulates many functions in the body, with one of the most basic being the sleep cycle. In the morning, the sun’s natural blue light signals the body to produce a hormone called cortisol, which promotes alertness and focus. When the sun sets and gives off a warmer glow that fades into darkness, the change in light signals the body to make a hormone called melatonin, which promotes relaxation and sleep. The cycle of the sun signals the mind to fall asleep or wake up. There is nothing inherently unhealthy about blue light. Problems arise, however, when we interrupt that natural shift in light temperature by exposing ourselves to blue light for hours after the sun has set. The blue light from your light bulbs and device screens signal the body to keep making cortisol instead of switching to melatonin. This disrupts the circadian rhythm and natural sleep cycle, which can make it harder to fall asleep at the end of the day. While a late-night TV binge here and there won’t cause much trouble, regularly disrupting the natural sleep cycle by several hours can lead to health problems.

Get Better Sleep With Balanced Light

Good sleep is crucial to overall good health. Our bodies need that time to rest and restore each day. The brain uses sleep to create new pathways to retain what it learned during the day, so one major side effect of poor sleep is poor memory. Studies have also linked increased anxiety, depression, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease with poor sleep. These risks are greater in children. So what can you do to avoid the destabilizing effects of blue light? The obvious answer is to avoid all blue light after sunset, but that’s just not practical. The key to this issue is balance. Cool, blue light is only a problem when it overtakes the natural balance with warm, red light. Find ways to bring that balance back into your home by limiting blue lights and increasing warm light after dark. It’s a pretty easy fix once you know what to look for. A simple switch to warm bulbs (often called “soft white”) and limited screen usage at sunset will have long-term benefits for the whole family by promoting healthy, natural sleep.

How Light Affects Your Mood

Have you ever noticed that many sit-down restaurants feel as if they are only half-lit? This isn’t done to save on the electricity bill, there’s a science behind it! Restaurateurs take advantage of both types of light to keep their business running smoothly. Warm, dimmed lighting in the dining areas naturally relaxes guests and encourages quiet. The kitchens are brightly lit with cool light to help everyone working there to be fully alert and productive while working at high speed. You can do the same thing in your home once you know how it works. Warm, red light is naturally less bright than blue light, so it will feel softer in your home. Use it in the places where you spend time at night to help you wind down and relax. It’s also a great choice for family gatherings or an intimate dinner date at home, where you can use warm light to naturally make everyone feel comfortable. Bright light enhances emotions, making us more aware of everything we’re feeling. If you notice that bedtime is a constant source of chaos at your home, try dimming the light in bedrooms, hallways, bathrooms, etc. It won’t instantly make them perfect sleepers, but it will definitely help you to foster a calm wind-down strategy at the end of the day.

How to Use Warm Light At Home

Older incandescent bulbs are a great source for warm light, but they’re being phased out in the lighting industry in favor of safer and more efficient alternatives. But that doesn’t mean you need to break out the candles just yet! LED stands for “light-emitting diode”. Essentially they’re microchips that glow as electricity passes through them. This design not only makes them up to 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs, but it also makes them versatile. LED bulbs come in a wide variety of color temperatures, and they can be paired with dimmers to set the mood. Some are even color-changing, so that you can switch back and forth from warm to cool using a remote or an app. If you just don’t love the look of a standard LED bulb, there are beautiful Edison bulb style LED options available! They’ll still give you that soft, warm, old-world charm with all of the same energy efficiency and safety advantages.

Where to Use Warm Light

When you’re planning where you want to introduce warm light in your home, think about the main uses for each space. One method is to designate each space in your home as an active or rest area. Active areas are places where you’re working. Blue light promotes focus and alertness, so it’s great to have in places like the kitchen, homework stations, home office, and garage. Rest areas are places where you want to relax and feel comfortable. They’re often gathering places like the living room or dining room, or night-time areas like hallways and bedrooms. Some rooms will have a combination of uses, so you’ll want to use a combination of light types! Bathrooms could use a mix, as blue light is great for a makeup table but warm light is more relaxing for a soak in the tub. Large great rooms might have seating and dining spaces that are rest areas, and study desk and food prep spaces that are active areas. Play around with lamps, dimmers, and smart bulbs to get the right balance for the way you use your home.

This world feels chaotic at times, and finding balance can feel daunting. We can’t help much with office politics or your crazy neighbors, but when it comes to lighting we know a thing or two about helping you find just the right light for your home. If you’re ready to start creating a balanced home with warm light, give us a call or stop by our showroom. Our lighting experts are happy to answer your questions and help you get started!

How to Choose Timeless Light Fixtures in 6 Easy Steps

by admin · Nov 25, 2022

Fads come and go. And while there’s nothing wrong with jumping on an interior design trend you love, we all do it knowing that it won’t be in style forever. Timeless design styles are so named because they don’t look “stuck in a time” – making them excellent choices for spaces you don’t want to redecorate every few months.

With that said, making your home’s style timeless is sometimes easier said than done. We realize we may be a bit biased, but we firmly believe that the key to any good room design is lighting. Whether you love the thrill of redecorating every few months or would rather have a classic room that meets your needs through it all – a timeless light fixture can really help to tie your room together without clashing with your design choices. But that doesn’t mean it has to be boring!

Finding timeless fixtures may take a little more effort, but it’s worth it to have a piece that will last you for years to come. To help you get started, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help you find a timeless fixture that’s right for you.

1. Find Inspiration

Finding a style that is timeless is sometimes more about finding a style that is timeless to you. Take a minute and think about the decor styles you have admired over the years. Have you always been drawn to a sleek modern look, or do you prefer cozy cottage-like interiors? Are you more of a maximalist or a minimalist?

If you’re not sure, you may want to start by browsing for inspiration. Magazines, social media, and Pinterest are great places to search for ideas. Another source of inspiration could be your favorite old movie or TV series!

For example, the kitchen in the film Father of The Bride (1991) is iconic for its warm, moody lighting. The style is so timeless that the film director, Nancy Meyers, has replicated this look and lighting design in many of her movies. Even Meyer’s own kitchen rocks this lighting look.

Once you have a collection of your favorite images saved, go back and look at the light fixtures. What colors are they? What shapes are they? Where are they in the room? You’ll start noticing patterns that you can use to create a list that will define your style.

2. Think Long Term

Now that you have defined your style, you will want to be sure you can live with it long term. Take your list, and consider how these timeless tips can apply to your style:

Colors and Finishes: Neutral colors and metallics are always in style, but you’ll want to choose finishes that are consistent with your personal style. Neutral colors like white, black, beige, grey, and tan are safe bets, and satin nickel and chrome are usually safe bets.

Swappable Parts: Consider finding lights that have shades that can be traded out without replacing the whole fixture. Glass shades come in many shapes and styles (clear glass is in style more often than frosted glass). Fabric shades are another easy swap out – stick to neutral or earth-tone colors for a more timeless look.

Permanence: Ceiling and hardwired wall fixtures can be a hassle to replace. Consider going classic and neutral with your permanent fixtures, then have fun with plug-in lights like a lamp that can be easily moved or replaced when it’s out of style.

3. Consider the Quality

The key to designing a home that has timeless style is creating a sense of comfort and luxury.

When choosing a fixture, follow this axiom: buy once and buy well. While top-quality light fixtures cost more upfront, they last much longer. If you don’t want to be reinstalling new lights every few years, don’t forget to budget for quality fixtures.

You also need to consider the quality of the light itself in your space. A single fixture in the center of a room’s ceiling isn’t enough – you’ll need to create layers of light to make your room feel comfortable. Every room should have a good mix of light sources, including overhead, accent, and task lighting.

4. Classic Staples, Trendy Extras

It can be pretty difficult to look beyond the latest trends in interior design. But, like your wardrobe, fast fashion items are usually cheap and go quickly out of style.

Think of your light fixtures as your wardrobe staples – the little black dress, the tailored suit, and so on. Your staples look great, are tailored to you, and never go out of style. Your accessories are your trendy pieces. When a trend comes through that you love, resist the temptation to replace your staples! Buy accessories in that style that compliment your staples instead.

For example, bold, sculptural decor is on-trend right now. While that sculpted brass chandelier is beautiful, it won’t be in style forever… and you’d end up having to replace it again soon when it inevitably feels tired. A timeless ceiling fixture will keep your room anchored, giving you room to play with this style on a smaller scale with accessories like a lamp or vase.

5. It’s Okay to Take Risks

Just because you are creating a timeless style for your home doesn’t mean you can’t take risks. The trick is knowing where and how to take risks.

Don’t be afraid to play with scale – a large, statement fixture can be just as timeless as any smaller counterpart as long as it compliments your style long-term! A great place for a timeless jaw-dropper is over the dining room table – it’s a bold choice that pays off!

Pro Tip: It may seem counterintuitive, but some of the best rooms to experiment with your design style are the smallest rooms in the house. If you fall in love with a trendy fixture, you don’t have to say “no” to keep your timeless design intact! Consider putting it in a powder room, hallway, or other small space that’s easier to redesign when the fad has faded.

6. Consistency is Key

Timeless looks feel easy and balanced. Choose fixtures that complement each other and your home’s decor to keep your design cohesive. Consider the other details in your home and look for fixtures with similar finishes and/or shapes.

Pro Tip: Our eyes are naturally drawn to symmetry. Try doubling up on your ceiling lights or table lamps to create symmetry in your home’s lightscape. We love how the symmetrical lighting design in the kitchen below gives it an elevated and polished look.

The lighting options you choose will have a significant impact on the way your home feels, so make the most of your investment! Take some time and get to know your own personal style, then find timeless options that will work for you!

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If you want help finding a timeless fixture that’s perfect for your home, give the lighting experts at Watts Current a call! We have a vast range of styles to choose from, and we have years of experience in helping homeowners find exactly what they’re looking for.

How Light Bulbs Made the Industrial Revolution Possible

by admin · Nov 18, 2022

The Industrial Revolution was marked by invention, early machinery, and mass production. Likewise, modern methods of supplying fuel, preserving food, producing clothes, and providing health care began with the Industrial Revolution. And a crucial common factor across the modernization of these industries?

Light bulbs.

Let’s set the stage. As the global population increased in the 1800s, a vicious cycle emerged. With more food, medicine, and shelter available, more children survived to adulthood. More adults meant more families with children, creating greater demand again. So over and over, more people were born and lived longer than before and increased demands on the global economy.

As early supply chains attempted to provide basics to the growing population, its success led to more people surviving.

The Industrial Revolution characterizes an era of inventors, undoubtedly fueled to relieve suffering and improve old methods. In short, it was an attempt to tame this cycle by providing more goods faster, easier, and in better conditions.

But the trouble was, demands for goods often rose faster than was safe to produce them. As a result, many industries struggled to find ways to increase production, but the light of a candle could only go so far into the night, and it came with dangerous risks and consequences.

Coal Miners: The Backbone of the Industrial Revolution

Let’s start with some of the most heavily relied-upon characters of the Industrial Revolution– coal miners. As demands for residential heat grew, so did the need for fuel for factories and trains.

Coal miners dug deep underground to supply the world with the required fuel. It was dangerous work, not only because of the use of explosives underground but because it was so dark. Lack of proper light made accidents common and kept production slow.

Candlelight was the only source of artificial light then. This posed a problem because mines often release flammable gases. The slightest fire exposure in the tunnels regularly resulted in explosions with hundreds dead. Inventors tried– but were unsuccessful– to create proper fire shields. As the need for coal grew, so did the number of fire-related incidents and deaths in the coal mines.

Reducing Fire Risk in Textile Factories

Another significant mark of the Industrial Revolution was the beginning of mass-produced clothing. Before factories existed, most clothing was tailor-made for each family member. Wealthy families hired sewists, and low-income families made their own clothing.

Textile factories promised to speed clothing production and free up time for other work. But unfortunately, textile factory workers faced a similar problem to that of the coal miners.

Before making clothing, cotton had to be spun into thread, then woven into fabric. This fabric would then be cut into patterns and sewn into finished clothing. The system of processing cotton led to very dusty rooms filled with tiny floating pieces of raw cotton. Even the smallest flame could catch the floating cotton, creating a runaway fire in moments. These fires took down entire factories in moments, often with few survivors.

Unlike the miners, textile workers could use the light of day through windows. But there was little sunlight in rainy regions or during the winters. So textile production had to slow or risk the use of candlelight according to the weather or season.

Here again, the invention of the electric light bulb allowed for safer work and better conditions for these workers. Electric light reduced the strain on workers and evened out available work hours. The growing population could now count on having enough clothing.

Impact on Food Preservation

The United States population exploded between the 1800s and 1900s as territory expanded. Consequently, the demand for food increased with these settlements and cities.

People’s access to food in the early 1900s was determined mainly by what they could grow themselves. You would eat some of the fresh food you could grow during the summer and store the rest to survive the cold winters. As a result, starvation was a constant threat, and malnutrition was common.

During the Industrial Revolution, many factories opened and started to mass-produce canned food. While canning factories did not risk the same dangerous fire as miners and textile workers, they still had limited light.

Enabling Quality Healthcare

Finally, light bulbs improved the quality of healthcare in hospitals around the globe. The 1800s showed a marked increase in understanding human anatomy and how to save a person’s life after a severe injury.

However, medical attention requires detailed work, and poor sanitation and techniques cost thousands if not hundreds of thousands of lives. Even the simple fact that candles and firelight distort color made it difficult for early medical professionals to accurately gauge a patient’s health status.

Beyond surgeries, hospital care, or home visits, the development of new medicines was also limited before the Industrial Revolution. For example, penicillin was developed in the 1920s – 1940s and is widely regarded as the first true antibiotic. The drug was developed through the work of many scientists observing bacteria cultures in universities, and it saved countless lives during World War II alone.

Although light bulbs alone did not allow for the creation of penicillin, the availability of consistent light (partnered with microscopes and other technology) is clearly linked with a massive spike in new medication since the early 1900s.

Lightbulbs: The Unsung Hero of an Industrialized World

We owe our modern, comfortable world to many inventions of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Still, there is no doubt that none of them would have been as successful without the invention of the electric light bulb. And so, the ordinary light bulb is the unsung hero of the modernization of the world.

So, the invention of the electric light bulb created the possibility of an industrialized, modern world– a world where people had enough heat, food, and medicine. The light bulb allowed for safer working conditions and paved the way for other inventions that advanced humanity as a whole.

Electric light provided bright, steady light for miners without a significant risk of explosion. As a result, artificial light significantly reduced the number of deaths. As a bonus, it also allowed them to work faster. Thus, miners could better fuel the world, unleashing the Industrial Revolution.

Food production through factories was unleashed with electric lights. The world now had an efficient and cheap process to provide food that could last months or years on the shelf.

As one could imagine, electric light significantly improved healthcare quality. Surgeries were performed with much better lighting, and follow-up care received better attention. Doctors and nurses could discover infections faster and perform precision work with accuracy.

Aside from hospital care, proper lighting enabled the creation of new medicines and techniques. Electric lighting was not the only factor to decrease medical-related deaths. Still, the widespread availability of steady light enabled doctors and scientists to make significant strides in proper care.

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At Watts Current, we are proudly following in the footsteps of these early lighting engineers. We are just as passionate about lighting the world as they were as we supply homes and businesses with the latest designs and functionality. Talk with an expert at Watts Current today to get custom advice on your lighting needs.

How Many Blades Does Your Ceiling Fan Really Need?

by admin · Nov 11, 2022

Ceiling fans are great at providing comfort year-round. A good ceiling fan will help you save on energy costs by circulating the air in your home. In the summer they create a draft, making the room feel cooler. In cold weather, you can switch the fan’s direction to circulate warm air from central heating around the room.

Ceiling fans are so ubiquitous that for many people it’s hard to imagine life without one! So what happens when your fan breaks, and it’s time to get a new one?

If you’ve shopped for ceiling fans recently, you know that there are a lot of options. From the ultra-modern models with a single fan blade, to the “windmill” design fans with so many blades that there’s hardly any space between them – many homeowners on the hunt start to ask:

How many blades does my ceiling fan really need?

Does the blade count actually change anything, or is it just for aesthetics?

In short, the answer is “yes to both.” The blade count on a ceiling fan is largely viewed as a style issue, but it does impact the way the fan works. Apart from the obvious design differences, the number of blades on a fan will also affect its noise level and energy consumption.

Noise Level

The fewer the blades, the faster a fan needs to spin to move the same amount of air. Lots of spinning means lots of moving parts, which usually translates to more noise. Take large industrial fans, for example – they typically have two or three blades and are pretty loud.

On the other end of the spectrum, fans with higher blade counts can move a lot of air spinning at a slower rate. Less motion means less noise – windmill-style fans with eight to ten blades are virtually silent.

There isn’t an exact cutoff between noisy versus quiet fans, but a good middle range is around five. If you want a quieter fan, one with five or more blades will likely be your best choice.

Energy Efficiency

Another thing to consider when choosing a fan is how much it will cost to run. Fans with more blades create more drag, requiring more energy to operate. This is one reason why large, always-on fans (like you’d see in a commercial space) often only have three blades. They may be a bit noisier, but they save on energy costs.

While its blade count does impact the energy efficiency of a fan, it’s definitely not the only factor involved. The efficiency of fans can also be affected by the length and angle of the blades and by the type of motor it uses. It’s best to check the energy rating of your fan when possible.

Style and Aesthetics

Aside from energy efficiency and noise level, the main difference between fans with high and low blade counts is really just style and aesthetics. “Windmill” styles with eight to twelve blades can feel rustic, whereas fans with two to three blades usually feel minimalist and industrial.

How do I know what the right number is for me?

The short answer to this question is – it really doesn’t matter very much for most people. It doesn’t matter whether noise levels, energy efficiency, or aesthetics are your top priority; it’s pretty likely that you’ll be able to find a fan that will meet your needs in all three categories.

Most often, it’s safe to shop by your style preferences first, then find a fan that meets your noise and efficiency needs from that selection. A modern, high-quality ceiling fan will be designed to work well regardless of the blade count.

If you’re looking for a quality fan that will keep you cool for years to come, stop by our showroom or give us a call. Our lighting experts are ready and waiting to help you find exactly what you need!

5 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Home Office

by admin · Nov 4, 2022

More people are working from home than ever before! Because of this, having a dedicated home office space has moved to the top of the home improvements list for many homeowners seeking refuge from daily noises and distractions at home. (Who can focus in a kitchen with a 2-year-old belting “Let it Go” at the top of their lungs?)

Global Workplace Analysis estimated that “we will see 25-30% of the workplace working at home on a multiple-days-a-week basis.” If you’re included in this work-from-home exodus, then you understand what a difference having an office that’s both functional and comfortable can make for your workday.

Fixing up your office doesn’t have to be a massive undertaking – making just one small change can significantly impact the way your home office feels. We put together a list of 5 tips that will make a huge difference in the look and feel of your home office.

Just remember, you don’t need to do all the things (unless you want to!) – any one of these projects on their own will still make a noticeable difference!

1. Refresh with Paint

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways of changing the mood of any room is painting. Whether you go for light and airy, bright and colorful, or moody, sometimes all you need is a color refresh to get back that inspiration.

A fresh coat of paint can completely change the mood of your home office. Check these out for some inspo on your office update!

Light and Airy

This pretty peach wall and breezy curtains create a peaceful haven where you can get the job done.

Bright and Colorful

These terrazzo-inspired colors bring life into this space and complement the floor perfectly. Talk about inspiration for your work!

Moody

The dark grey walls of this office create a moody ambiance where work can take first priority.

2. Add Lighting

One of the most important elements in a home office is its lighting. Harsh fluorescents are headache-inducing and feel more like a hospital than a haven of inspiration and productivity. Dim lighting is perfect for taking a snooze, but may not be effective when tasks are begging to be completed.

Unfortunately, most people don’t have floor-to-ceiling windows. And even if you do, using a variety of lights is critical in creating an effective working environment without headaches or unintentional naps.

Overhead Lighting

A chandelier or pendant light will do the trick for indirect lighting that will give your office soft, all-over light.

Task Lighting

Functional task lighting is also important in a productive workspace. With the flip of a switch, there won’t be any more squinting to read the post-it-note reminder you scribbled for yourself in a rush earlier. A desk lamp, pendant lights, or wall lamps work perfectly when positioned above the desk.

Lamps

Now that you have overhead lights and task lighting, look around for places that need an extra boost of light! One idea is to create a nook with a cozy chair, then add a floor lamp. Otherwise, consider a side table and table lamp. Lamps with shades add ambient light to the various workspaces in your office so you can see your work no matter where you’re seated.

3. Have Multiple Seating Options

Using a variety of seating options always helps when you get restless. Sometimes changing positions is all you need to get the job done! A comfortable office chair is a must, but you could also consider adding a couch (if you have the space) or a cozy armchair with a side table and lamp.

4. Declutter and Create a System

In the North American Journal of Psychology, researchers say “indecision and behavioral procrastination [are] related…to high degrees of office clutter.” Visual clutter is stressful, and it often leads to poor work performance.

Everything in your workspace should have a purpose and a place to live. Toss out the things you don’t need, and make homes for the things you do. Once you have a system down, you’ll be able to move more quickly from one task to the next. No more searching for a working pen when you need it.

Hide those cords, get bins or a filing system to keep your loose papers in, and make sure you have adequate storage. Built-ins or a bookshelf go a long way in creating a solution.

5. Accessorize

Don’t be afraid to play around with accessories you find or have hanging around. Books, wall hangings that inspire you, and even functional accessories like pencil cups can give your space a more lived-in feel without being cluttered or uninviting. Adding plants also will breathe life into an office that may be lacking. Try different pairings and get creative!

Office update: check! Now your Frozen-obsessed toddler can sing “Let it Go” behind your closed (and locked) office door while you get the job done. For more help with your design needs, contact Watts Current or visit our showroom! We’d be happy to assist and give you more tips like these.

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