A luminaire audit is a comprehensive assessment of the lighting fixtures (luminaires) in a particular space or facility such as a supermarket or healthcare facility. At RMS Solutions Group, we routinely perform luminaire audits, or surveys, in order to maximize your energy usage and the sustainability of your business operations. The purpose of this audit is to evaluate the performance, efficiency, and suitability of the existing lighting system. Here’s what a luminaire audit typically involves:

1. Inventory and Assessment: The first step is to conduct a thorough inventory of all the luminaires in the space. This includes recording details such as location, type of fixture, wattage, and condition. Each luminaire is inspected to identify any visible defects or issues.
2. Measurement of Light Levels: Specialized equipment is used to measure the light levels (illuminance) at different points within the space. This helps determine whether the existing lighting is adequate for the tasks being performed in that area. It also identifies areas of over- or under-lighting.
3. Energy Consumption Analysis: The energy consumption of the lighting system is analyzed to assess its efficiency. This involves gathering data on the wattage of each luminaire, the number of fixtures, and the operating hours. By comparing this data with the space’s lighting needs, energy-saving opportunities can be identified.
4. Evaluation of Lighting Quality: Besides just the quantity of light, the quality of light is also important. Factors such as color rendering index (CRI), glare, flicker, and uniformity of light distribution are evaluated to ensure that the lighting provides a comfortable and safe environment for occupants.
5. Recommendations for Improvement: Based on the findings of the audit, recommendations are provided for improving the lighting system. This may include suggestions for upgrading to more energy-efficient luminaires, repositioning fixtures for better light distribution, installing lighting controls such as dimmers or sensors, or retrofitting existing fixtures with LED technology.
6. Cost-Benefit Analysis: The audit may include a cost-benefit analysis of proposed lighting upgrades. This helps the facility owner or manager understand the potential return on investment (ROI) of implementing the recommended changes in terms of energy savings, maintenance costs, and improved lighting quality.

Overall, a luminaire audit is a valuable tool for optimizing lighting performance, reducing energy consumption, and improving the overall quality of illumination in a space. It provides actionable insights that can lead to cost savings, increased productivity, and enhanced comfort for occupants.