13 Nov How do Gambino Landscape Lighting systems last so long and perform at such a high level over time
By Mike Gambino
High Performance landscape lighting systems designed and built to last is not only our company slogan but our company culture.
I think we should first define the terms High Performance Landscape Lighting and talk a little first about how long a landscape lighting system generally lasts on average.
Gambino Landscape Lighting System original system components are 15 years old and have been repurposed and re-installed over 2 major landscape remodels
High Performance Landscape Lighting Systems
Our philosophy from day one since I started this business over 25 years ago has always been to create an end product ( that being a custom designed and built low voltage landscape lighting system) that would not only visually stimulate and excite, provide safety and security to the properties occupants but also last for a very long time with a minimal amount of maintenance. Like F.B. Nightingale, a mentor of mine, fixtures and system components should be around long after I have left this earth. Our definition of high performance is not only in regards to our products but our service as well.
It means standing behind and supporting our projects. Maintaining and servicing them on a regular basis and in the rare event of a problem getting out to the site ASAP to make right any wrongs.
This Gambino lighting system’s components are 15 years old and have been through two major landscape remodels. Fixtures are original and have been upgraded with LED lamps during most recent system incarnation
How long do average landscape lighting systems perform and last
There have never been any formal studies done to my knowledge (and my best guess is because the industry as a result would not want to know because it will not be very flattering) so I can’t refer to any specific numbers. However I can tell you that with the high number of calls that I and my colleagues around the country get to replace failed and failing systems that had been installed only a few years prior it is safe to say 2-4 years.
A Gambino landscape Lighting system designed and installed 12 years ago and recently upgraded with new LED lamps
Why do some Landscape Lighting Systems last why others Fail?
To start in order for any system to stand the test of time all system components- transformers, control systems, cable, conduit, fixtures, lamps, connections all must be constructed from the highest quality most durable materials that will not rust, corrode or breakdown when exposed to the rigors of the seasonal environmental conditions that they will be exposed to day after day, week after week, month after month and year after year.
This means metals must be stainless steel, brass or copper. Critical parts like fixtures and wire connections must remain dry and moisture free. Silicone and Rubber seals will not last forever and must be inspected regularly and replaced as needed. This is not the only requirement of an ongoing maintenance program.
This system was originally built 19 years ago by us and recently remodeled for landscape changes using original fixtures. New Gambino fixtures were added and entire system upgraded to LED.
Ongoing maintenance
Simply put no landscape lighting system will perform at a high level or last the test of time without human assistance. There is no such thing as a maintenance free landscape lighting system and there is no technology that exists now or in the future that will ever replace this necessity. What must take place every 6-12 months?
Fixture re- adjustments or new placement – As plants and trees grow and mature the lighting must change and adapt to these changes that could mean a simple turn of a screw or a dig up , removal and re-installation of fixture or fixtures.
Lamp Upgrades- Those that are needed in response to landscape changes this could mean a full replacement of a lamp (bulb) to increase or decrease brightness or increase or decrease the spread of the light beam. Or in the case of our fixtures the movement of a concealed switch in our LED modules or a replacement of a removable optic (which is must less costly then replacing the whole lamp).
Lens cleaning- lenses require cleaning on a regular basis. Hard water from landscape sprinklers can etch and obscure and cut down on light transmission taking the effectiveness out of your lighting. Soil and mulch buildup can do the same but can also trap light inside the fixture building up high heat that results in premature lamp failure.
Foliage thinning- Any major pruning is best done by a tree service or landscape maintenance company on a regular basis however in regards to what is directly in the front of and around lighting fixtures this type of light pruning is best accomplished by the original lighting designer/builder. As he or she knows what type of clearance is best for nighttime effect.
Fixture surface cleaning- This is an optional service which is almost futile as the tendency is for them to get soiled shortly thereafter it is just the nature of a garden. If it was done right from the start and brass and copper products were used they will patina naturally and not break down from environmental conditions. Most fixtures should not be visible in the landscape anyway if the designer did his job right.
This Gambino system is original and 16 years old and has gone through very few changes with the exception of a recent LED lamp upgrade
This landscape lighting blog is published by Mike Gambino of Gambino landscape lighting inc. all rights reserved. Mike is a professional landscape lighting system designer/ builder and has been designing, installing and maintaining landscape lighting systems for more than 20 years. Mike resides in the Los Angeles area with his wife and 2 sons. To visit his website go to www.Gambinolighting.com . To inquire about hiring Mike please click here .
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