Christmas lighting on facades and sites: power, switching and IP rating
In November businesses, shops and municipalities put up their festive lighting. Where does the power come from, how does the light switch on and off by itself and which sockets and floodlights belong outdoors? A checklist for installers.
Why now: the lighting goes on in mid November
Festive lighting on a commercial building, shop front or site usually runs from mid November to early January. The weak spot is nearly always the power supply: an extension lead through a gap in the window, an indoor power strip on the ground or a cable across a walkway.
A fixed outdoor connection is done once and can be used every year. Sockets and floodlights from our stock are delivered within 5 working days. If you want to connect in mid November, order this week.
Checklist for the outdoor connection
- IP rating: outdoors at least splash-proof IP44, in a sheltered spot under a canopy, overhang or roof. Where rain or spray hits directly, choose a higher IP rating or a lockable outdoor box. See IP and IK ratings explained.
- Residual current protection: outdoor sockets belong on a circuit with a 30 mA RCD, as required by the Dutch standard NEN 1010.
- Own circuit: with a lot of lighting or a large site, use a separate circuit so one damp plug does not trip the whole building.
- Switching: a time switch or dusk sensor, so the lighting does not burn all night and nobody has to remember to turn it on.
- Leads and plugs: only outdoor-rated leads and plugs, not across walkways or through windows.
- Installation: have the fixed connection installed by a qualified installer.
Which sockets fit outdoors
For flush mounting in a facade or wall in a sheltered spot we stock earthed sockets with a hinged lid in IP44, 16 A, 230 V:
- PRIMA, white, frame included: socket with hinged lid for 15.59 euro, without frame for 13.99 euro. Also in sand.
- LUXA, matt white or matt black: for a clean facade or shop front the LUXA version in matt white for 20.19 euro or in matt black for 29.25 euro, with spring terminals for fast wiring.
All prices exclude VAT. For the LUXA version the frame is ordered separately. From 100 pieces we quote a project price.
Lighting the facade in warm white
Not every winter look needs string lights. A facade, tree or entrance lit in warm white looks well kept all winter and simply stays in use as facade lighting afterwards.
- Compact FLUX floodlight 2700K: 30 W with 4,000 lm from 38.19 euro or 50 W with 6,500 lm for 46.35 euro, IP66, 120 degree beam.
- Plug-in sensor: for an entrance or loading bay the plug-in sensor with daylight sensor (16.35 euro) only switches the floodlight on when it is dark and there is movement.
Aim the floodlight at the facade, not at the street or the neighbours. How to avoid light nuisance is explained in light nuisance for neighbours. Help with choosing wattage and beam is in choosing a floodlight for sites and facades.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a normal indoor socket outdoors?
No. Outdoors you need at least a splash-proof IP44 socket with a hinged lid in a sheltered spot. Where rain or spray hits directly, a higher IP rating or an outdoor box is needed.
How does the Christmas lighting switch on and off automatically?
With a time switch or a dusk sensor in the circuit. The lighting then only burns during the hours when it is dark and people pass by.
Does an outdoor socket need an RCD?
Yes. Sockets belong on a circuit with a 30 mA RCD. Have the connection made by a qualified installer.
How fast will the sockets and floodlights arrive?
Items in stock are delivered within 5 working days. Shipping costs 25 euro and is free from 200 euro excl. VAT.
Order directly from the PRIMA line, the LUXA line or the FLUX line, or email your list and receive a quote within one working day.
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