How to hang a Large Dining Room Chandelier

 Large chandeliers can be a beautiful addition to any dining room provided that there are other sources of light present.  If the chandelier is the only source of light over a dining room table it will seem glary.  It is prefered to have evenly distributed recessed fixtures along with wall sconces so all of the light sources can be dimmed to provide an even distribution of light.

What size chandelier is right for your space?

Chandelier size is usually measured by diameter, height, and the number of lamps.  Ofcourse the more lamps a chandelier has the larger it usually is.  Chandeliers come with different number tiers meaning each tier is one row of arms that hold the lamp, usually a 3 to 6 light would be a single tier chandelier.  There are also two tier, three tier and four tier chandeliers.  An average chandelier for the typical dining room (10'W  x 10'L x 8'CLG) would be a 4 to 6 light, 26" to 30" diameter chandelier. 

The below factors may help when choosing the Light fixture that is right for you. 

• The chandelier should usually be centered over the dining table and not exceed 10" from either side of the edge of the table beneath. 
• The chandelier should be about 26" to 30" off the dining room table
• Taller dining room ceilings can use two or three tiered chandeliers
• For longer dining room tables two smaller chandeliers can be used
• Size the chandelier to the room not to the amount of light it puts out.
• Decorative lighting chain sleeves and medallions can be used for an added elegance
• Bowl pendants can often be used

Remember that there is no exact formula for the exact chandelier for your space it is really more of a balance of room size, architecture and furniture shapes.  So, if you have a dining room with a 20 foot ceiling, a 15 foot long table and you want a mini chandelier cause you like it, go for it.  Interior design to me is really a calculated art form of self expression in the home.  The most important part putting togather your home is to have fun.

Having trouble choosing a chandelier to fit your space

Many people decide that interior design is not there specialty or they just don't have enough time for it.  In these cases there are interior design organizations with enough information to help you find the resources you need to finish your project.  Below is a list of interior design resources.

• American Society of Interior Designers
• The Interior Design Society
• International Interior Design Association

The above are the most well known organizations of interior design.  They have proved helpful to us finding solutions to almost any design problem.

Designing & Installing a Tech Lighting Monorail System

Tools and hardware you will need for the installation

• Plumb Bob (laser prefered)
• Battery Drill with phillips bit 
• Hand level 
• Hacksaw (if cutting sections)
• Vise 
• Ladder (height to be determined by ceiling height) 
• Masking tape 
• Bending plywood block (if curved sections) 
• Voltage tester 
• Pencil 
• Graph paper 
• Measuring Tape

Begin With: Designing your MonoRail System Check List

1. In the design phase of your project, start with understanding what you want to light. Sometimes sunlight gets in the way so be sure to do this at night and in the day. This will give you an understanding of the functionality of your lighting system and a general direction of where the track will need to be. This is probably the most important step. 
2. At this point you want to use the measuring tape to measure out the room from side to side to side. That maybe too many sides. Begin sketching out your track system layout. This will help you find the shape of the track you are about to install by sketching until the desired shape is found. Remember that the Monorail System can be curved by hand to fit your architectural space. 
3. Remember that the MonoRail Run must be placed so it goes directly over the powered junction box. 
4. This leads you to the decision of what style and what colors compliment your space. 
5. You will need to decide which spot light heads and/or Tech Lighting pendants you will want to use if lighting specific items and where they will be located on the monorail system. 
6. With the proper measurements and a final drawing you will be able to determine how many pieces of rail you will need. Remember to add a pair of end caps to each end of the run.

Determine How much Lighting and what hardware will be needed

Add the number of spot light heads and Tech Lighting pendants together then multiply them by the bulb wattage in each to determine the wattage of the transformer. Surface mount transformers can be used on almost all ceiling surfaces and simply mount directly to the junction box beneath the run. The surface mounts look like neat little spaceships attached to the ceiling. A remote transformer with a power feed canopy will provide a cleaner look but, the remote transformer must be located in a semi-near location accounting for voltage drop to the power feed canopy.

Based on the ceiling height and the location of the items wanted to light determine how far from the ceiling you want the system to drop. Standard power feed canopies drop the MonoRail System two inches from the ceiling. The surface mount systems are determined by what size transformer is needed from two to five inches.

If you desire the rail to be lower than what is standard than you will need to add a power extender to the power feed canopy or the surface mount transformer. The maximum drop for the MonoRail Track System is eight feet.

The size of the rigid standoff rail anchors can be determined by matching the drop of the power feed to the Monorail System. If an extender is used add the distance of the power extender and the surface transformer or power feed canopy distance to determine the size of the standoff. Adjustable cable standoffs can be used as well but, are not recommended for curved tracks. You’ll need a standoff for every three feet of run and the power feed from the transformer counts as one standoff. Note that power extenders and standoff’s are field cutable so you can customize your MonoRail height.

Installation of your Tech Lighting MonoRail Track System

1. Receive and check in all of the specified parts that you will need for your shiny new track system. 
2. Begin by taping off where the furniture that will be beneath the MonoRail System is before moving it out of the way. This will give you a feel as to where the furniture will be while you lay the system out on the floor. 
3. Assemble the MonoRail on the floor by mirroring its exact location as it would be on the ceiling. Make all necessary cuts and curves that relate to the sketch made. 
4. Connect and mount the surface transformer or the power feed canopy on the existing junction box. 
5. Measure out the placement of all the standoffs on the ground marking the track at each location. 
6. Use the Laser Plumb Bob to determine the location of the ceiling anchors that will secure the standoffs to the ceiling. I like to stand on a ladder and mark the ceiling with a sharpie where every the laser falls. Be sure not to look into the laser as it damages our eyes, just another problem we don’t need. 
7. Each standoff comes with a drywall anchor that will be used at each mark done by the sharpie markie. If you have a concrete slab as in many condos a small 3/8” anchor can be used and set with a 3/8” masonry drill bit. 
8. Mount all of the standoffs in the ceiling. Be sure not to over tighten or the anchor might loose its anchor. Remove all of the lower mounting harnesses on each standoff. 
9. With a little help raise the assembled MonoRail track system fitting it into each standoff and the power feed. Tighten each harness by loosening the alan key that allows the base to rotate screwing in the lower mounting harness. 
10. Level out the system by using the hand level and adjusting each standoff. By this time you may want to do it by eye but the level always proves to be right. 
11. Insert the end caps for that cleaned up end look. 
12. Assemble and place the spot light heads in there desired place on the Monorail run. 
13. The pendants take a little more effort. The splice on the pendant is the hardest part of this step so take your time and follow the instructions closely when modifying pendant cord length. 
14. Run the system for 20 minutes. 
15. Turn off the system and check for any connections that are hot to the touch. Warm is acceptable. Note that halogen lamps generate heat. Those connections that are hot must be retightened. 
16. Your Tech Lighting MonoRail System is ready to rock and roll. 
17. If you need any further assistance during your installation call your Tech Lighting Monorail Experts.

Fine Art Lamps Expands at Dallas

Energy Star fans can help you save

Energy Star fans are 50% more efficient than ceiling fans without the Energy Star certification. You can save up to $20 a year this way. Reversible fans can be used in the winter to help trim heating costs. Some fans require you to flip a switch on the fan body itself; other fans have a button on the control you can push to reverse the way it spins. This can be handy for fans on higher ceilings. Emerson Fans is an example of a company that sells Energy Star Compliant fans.

In addition to heating/cooling, Energy Star fans with built-in lighting are more efficient and longer lasting than non Energy Star fans, saving more money with fewer bulb changes. If your fan didn’t come with integrated lighting, buy an Energy Star light kit or fitter to receive the savings on lighting.

Also note than the fan size may be important. Placing a small fan in a large room won’t help you as much as it could. To help you figure out the appropriate fan size, consult this chart:

Source: American Lighting Association, 2003

Cristina Saralegui signs with Minka Group

Agreement with Minka Group for lighting line

"We currently have a Hearst Castle Collection and a Jessica McClintock Home Collection. We are thrilled to now include Casa Cristina as Cristina is one of the most influential women in our country. We understand the value of her brand and the millions of loyal consumers it represents."

The line is inspired by Cristina's personal style and home decorating tastes. The collection is estimated to contain about 80 different items, including Minka Aire Fans, wall mirrors, decorative chandeliers, table and floor lamps, and bath and wall lighting. The Casa Cristina Lighting Collection debuted in April 2006 at the High Point market, the June 2006 Dallas Lighting Show, and the July 2006 Las Vegas Market. Retailers started to sell the Casa Cristina Lighting Collection in June.

The Minka Group joins other Casa Cristina licensees Pulaski, CBK, Jaunty, Lady Americana and JR United. Cristina Saralegui has been a journalist for thirty years. She was inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame in 2005, and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She made her TV debut as executive producer and host of The Cristina Show on Univision. The show has received 12 Emmys and taped over 4,000 shows.

Cristina Saralegui also dedicates time to a variety of social causes. She and her husband Marcos Avila founded the Arriba la Vida/Up with Life Foundation in 1996, a private foundation dedicated to AIDS awareness and education among Hispanics, as well as other AIDS related causes that touch the lives of Hispanics everywhere. In September 2005, she received the Valor Award from GLAAD. She resides in Miami.

Which Lighting or Ceiling Fan Factory is NOT in China

Does any lighting or ceiling fan manufacture still manufacture in the United states?   Many still do, but so many are in China.  There is some contriversy about how the USA is giving too much manufacturing work to China.  What does that mean for our future and for China's? 

Where is Lighting & Ceiling Fan manufacturing going?

China's economy cannot be underestimated when China's nickname has become "the world's largest factory", the importance of industrial parks to China's economy is crucial. To date, state-level industrial parks have already secured more than one-third of total foreign investment in China.   All the different regions are have there own strengths and weaknesses of manufacturing.

These industrial parks consist of many more than just the following

• Lighting and all types of electrical parts
• Ceiling fans and all types of appliances
• bio-pharmaceuticals
• Automobiles
• Motorcycles

Much of this information can be found at China Knowledge

What has all of this Lighting manufacturing done to the USA?

Many U.S. manufacturers are challenged like never before. They are on the front lines of the most intense world competition in history where it is virtually impossible to raise prices. Yet, costs do rise, often because of what government does or does not do.  More of this info is at NAM

Our own lighting and ceiling fan factories have begun raising product value by:

• There use of Unilateral Pricing Policies (Which has been effective)
• Nationwide media advertising campaignes
• Increased service and support
• More lighting and ceiling fan education

The below lighting factories still manufacture most products in USA

• Fine Art Lamps
• Fredrick Ramond
• American Art Industries
• Wilshire

You can see all of these points while shopping for ceiling fans at Del Mar Designs.

How to Educate Your Team about Lighting

ALA the Lighting Educator in our industry

With all the education in the US lighting education is limited to a half a dozen institutions and ALA seems to be used the most.

 (ALA) American Lighting Association

The ALA is what we think to be the most widley used in the United States lighting and ceiling fan industry.  How do you do it?

• Acheive LIGHTING ASSOCIATE by completing 12 of ALA's lighting courses online at the price of $ 39.00 each course.  
• LIGHTING SPECIALIST gets a bit more involved with a self study manual that is about four inches thick and the questions are much harder than in the Lighting Associate course.  Purchase the manual online at the ALA it costs $ 251.50.  Answer all of the unit tests, the tests in the end of the manual, call ALA to request the final exam for the RTL Manual, pass the 100 question exam with at least 80% and become a Lighting Specialist.
• CLC Certified Lighting Consultant first you have to become a lighting specialist.  There are self study courses or you can attend other courses around the country to attain up to (40) credit hours or you must have five years in the lighting industry.  There are many CLC approved courses provided by manufactures to earn credit hours.  Once you have accomplished the hours needed call ALA for a CLC Application.  You will then return the application with a payment $ 180.00 I am sure they take all forms.  A letter explaining requirements and a set blueprints will be mailed to you.  You then have 6 months to finish the requirements and return it to ALA. 

These requirements will get you to one of the highest non collage based lighting certifications in the US.  We would be thrilled to assist with any questions or you can visit us at Lighting and Ceiling fan questions

Hunter Fan Company Celebrates 120 years

Hunter Fan Company's success starts here...

MEMPHIS, TENN. (November 29, 2006)—Hunter Fan Co. is celebrating a milestone: 120 years of success as an American leader in the manufacturing industry. The history of Hunter Fan Co. stretches across the turn of two centuries, two world wars, and the Great Depression. The company traces its origins back to 1886, when the prominent New York industrialists John and James Hunter purchased part of the Tuerk Water Meter Company and began to produce water-powered fans. For a dozen decades, the company has defined the cutting edge of technology and style for ceiling fans and motors. Hunter ceiling fans outdate the radio, the automobile, and even the common use of household electricity.

Hunter turn of the century ceiling fan replicas

To commemorate this event, Hunter Fans will be introducing a limited edition replica series of ceiling fans featuring storied designs from the turn of the century. Included in this collection will be the 1886 60-inch two blade fan. The hand-carved wood blades and authentically hand-cast vintage-style motor housing makes each fan one-of-a-kind. Other fans will feature Adapt Air&trade, an infinitely adjusting blade pitch system that was used prior to the invention of the reversing motor. This entire new collection will be produced in modern finishes, putting a fresh face on classic ceiling fan designs. Complementing these reproductions will be Hunters line of Original fans, which have been in continuous production for more than 100 years and have the industrys only oil bath motor and cast-iron housing.

Hunter Fans turning point

In 1889, the company moved its headquarters from Syracuse to Fulton, N.Y.. Eight years later, they began purchasing motors from General Electric to produce its first electrically motorized fans, and the name was changed to Hunter Fan & Motor Company. At the time, prices ranged from a modest $8.50 to $15 depending on the model of fan. If you bought a Hunter fan at the turn of the twentieth century for $8.50, you made a sound investment in a high-tech piece of household machinery that would last you a lifetime, said Chuck Smith, president of Hunter Fan Co. We don't sell our fans for that price today, but we can still guarantee you a lifetime of quality and happiness from your Hunter fan. After all, we've got 120 years of experience to prove that our fans are second to none for performance and satisfaction.

By the dawn of the twentieth century, Hunter Fan & Motor Company was already touting its enduring success. The cover of a 1903 catalog calls Hunter "the original Olde Tyme Ceiling Fan" and proclaims, "Only by years of experience can be learned the many little things making a perfect fan construction." Hunter Fan Co. stands by those words today.

Hunter Ceiling Fans relocate to Memphis

In 1941, Hunter Fan & Motor Company moved to Memphis, Tenn. When World War II began that same year, the company joined the conservation movement by giving up its copper and chrome finishes in favor of lacquer paint for the duration of the war. The fans produced before the war are often found in museums that chronicle the typical American home and family throughout the nation's history. Hunter's continuing success is based on a heritage of progress and innovation. The company has grown and evolved with the invention of the air conditioner, automobile, and microchip-all of which changed the way Hunter fans operated and were distributed throughout the United States and internationally. Modern inventions such as remote controls and high-efficiency motors have also been integrated into the company's designs. Plus, all Hunter fans manufactured today are designed to contribute to the energy efficiency of a home or building in addition to adding style and comfort.

Hunter's ceiling fan models

Today, Hunter's line of ceiling fans includes 60- and 72-inch fans for larger homes, all aluminum fans that will never rust for outdoor living areas, and a wide variety of Old World, transitional and contemporary styles. They feature a broad palette of architectural details, from rich furniture-grade woods and hand-applied finishes to artfully crafted glass. The slogan "Made the Way it Used to Be" is not just words from Hunter, it's a mission. For 120 years, Hunter has been a brand synonymous with quality and innovation.

"Our technology may be on the leading edge, but our quality remains timeless," said Beau Parker, vice president of ceiling fans for Hunter Fan Co. "We see ceiling fans that are sixty or more years old all the time, and they're still running strong. The same will be true when we are celebrating our 150th or even our 200th anniversary."

The ceiling fans also tout features and benefits including Anti-Vibration Technology™ (AVT) for wobble-free performance, and Hunter's "Quiet for Life" pledge reinforcing their commitment to whisper-quiet operation. Hunter also has expanded their expertise into home comfort products, such as high-performance air purifiers, low-maintenance humidifiers, portable fans, and energy-saving thermostats, as well as a patio fan and garage fan.