Hardwired lighting refers to lighting fixtures that are permanently connected to a building’s electrical system. This is in contrast to portable lighting that can be plugged into outlets and moved around. So the opposite of hardwired lighting would be portable, movable, or flexible lighting. Some key differences between hardwired and portable lighting include:
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Installation
Hardwired lights are installed by electricians and become a permanent part of the building’s wiring. The light fixtures are mounted to junction boxes in the ceiling or walls and wired directly to the electrical system with no plugs or outlets. This provides a clean, seamless look but lacks flexibility. Portable lights can simply be plugged into any ordinary electrical outlet and moved freely. No special installation is required.
Wiring
Hardwired lights require running wiring through walls and ceilings back to an electrical panel. The fixtures are then connected with wire nuts or other permanent connections. Portable lights use standard plugs that connect to electrical outlets, so no special wiring is needed. The cords may limit how far the lights can be placed from outlets.
Appearance
Built-in hardwired lights can look very sleek and integrated into a space. But portable lights may be visible and stand out more. Hardwired lights also avoid the potential hazard or cluttered look of power cords running along baseboards or ceilings.
Permanence
Once hardwired lights are installed, they essentially become a fixed part of the building. It takes an electrician to move, add, or change those fixtures. Portable lights offer complete flexibility to rearrange a space or take them to different rooms or buildings as needed. No modifications to electrical systems are required.
Cost
Hardwired lights require professional installation and therefore have higher upfront costs for labor and materials. But portable lights involve lower initial costs, just the price of the lighting unit itself. Overall lifetime costs may be comparable.
Brightness
Built-in hardwired fixtures allow installing very powerful lights that may not be available in portable plug-in form factors. But portable lights continue to improve in brightness with modern LED technology.
Control
Hardwired lights can be controlled from wall switches that come wired as part of the overall electrical system. Portable lights would need to be turned on manually or use wireless smart switches. Voice control and automation are options with some portable lights.
Safety
Proper installation provides added safety with hardwired lights. There is less chance of damage to wiring inside walls and reduced fire risk from worn electrical cords. Portable lighting does involve cords that can fray or other hazards with improper use.
When to Choose Hardwired Lighting
Here are some situations where built-in hardwired lighting is preferable:
– New construction or major renovation projects allow installing wiring and fixtures.
– For a very clean, seamless, integrated look.
– Lighting needs are fixed.
– Very high lumen output is required.
– Dimming or automation with switches is desired.
– Placing lights into areas without nearby outlets.
– Commercial buildings and applications requiring permanent, tamper-resistant lighting.
Benefits of Portable Lighting
Portable plug-in lighting has advantages in these cases:
– Existing buildings where installing new wires is not feasible.
– Rental properties or temporary usage where permanent fixtures are not desired.
– Only need lighting for short-term uses or specific tasks.
– Want flexibility to rearrange lighting as needs change.
– Testing out different lighting designs before committing.
– Supplemental or accent lighting.
– Small living spaces like apartments with limited options for installing lights.
– Bringing extra lighting for events or emergencies/power outages.
– DIY installations without needing an electrician.
Popular Types of Portable Lighting
Table and Floor Lamps
Traditional portable lighting like table and floor lamps are commonly used to add flexible ambient lighting to homes. Floor lamps can provide directional task lighting. Swing arm and adjustable lamps allow aiming light where needed.
Desk and Clamp Lamps
Smaller desk lamps are ideal for focusing illumination precisely on office tasks or hobby work. Clamp lamps attach to edges and objects to direct light. Gooseneck designs allow shaping the beam.
Night Lights
Plug-in night lights offer dim, accent lighting and visibility at night while saving energy. Low-level lighting is less disruptive for sleeping. Some feature motion-activation and auto shut-off.
String Lights
Also known as fairy or Christmas lights, these strings of small bulb lights on a wire create decorative ambient lighting indoors or outdoors. The flexible wire allows shaping and wrapping them in creative designs.
Flashlights & Headlamps
Portable and wearable lights like flashlights and headlamps provide hands-free directed illumination. They are indispensable for tasks that require seeing small details in dim areas. Versatile and durable.
Lanterns
Battery or solar-powered lanterns offers highly portable general area lighting. Their handles make them easy to carry and hang up anywhere desired. Waterproof designs work outside or in wet conditions.
Book Lights
Book lights attach to books to provide hands-free reading light. The long adjustable arms allow directing the beam precisely over pages to avoid glare. Some offer multiple brightness levels.
Accent & Cabinet Lighting
Puck lights, cabinet lights, and strip lighting with adhesive backing can conveniently provide accent lighting anywhere in a home. No need for hardwiring. Just attach and plug in.
Choosing Portable Lighting
Here are key factors to consider when selecting portable lighting:
Lumens
The lumen output determines the brightness. Lamps under 1,000 lumens are suitable for accent lighting. Choose 2,000+ lumens for general room lighting. Higher is better for tasks like reading.
Light Quality
The color temperature and color rendering index (CRI) impact the light quality. Warm white 2700-3000K light is flattering for homes. Cool 5000-6000K light keeps people alert. CRI of 80+ gives the truest color.
Efficiency
LED bulbs require much less power than incandescents for the same brightness. They last 10+ years to save on replacement costs. Look for ENERGY STAR rated options.
Features
Convenient features include touch/remote controls, dimmable output, auto shutoff timers, motion activation, and outlet pass-throughs. Consider smart bulbs compatible with home automation systems.
Design
The lamp design should suit your decor and needs. Evaluate portability, adjustability, shade styles, material quality, and stability. Well-designed lights can serve as an attractive decor accent.
Application
Tailor the lamp design and features for your lighting purpose. Small clip lights for task lighting, brighter standing lamps for general lighting, directional designs for accent lighting, etc.
Safety Tips for Portable Lights
While very handy, portable lighting does present some electrical and fire hazards if misused. Follow these tips for safe operation:
– Don’t overload outlets by plugging in too many lights. Watch for overheating.
– Replace old worn power cords that may have damaged insulation.
– Use caution running cords across floors to avoid tripping hazards.
– Keep lights away from water and damp areas. Never touch plugs or fixtures with wet hands.
– Ensure lamps have stable bases and don’t easily tip over. Never suspend lights by their power cords.
– Check that plastic shades or other flammable materials are kept away from bulb surfaces.
– Turn off and unplug lights when leaving the house or going to sleep. Use smart power strips where practical.
– Buy quality certified lighting products from reputable brands for safety. Check that portable lights are UL listed.
– Keep LED bulbs and other lights away from children and pets to avoid hazards. Supervise use.
– For outdoor string lights, ensure wires are rated for exterior use and have GFCI protection.
Conclusion
The opposite of permanent hardwired lighting is portable, plug-in lighting that offers flexibility and mobility. While hardwired lights have advantages in applications like new construction, portable lamps, desk lights, string lights, and other options excel when you need to easily move and rearrange your lighting. Just take care to select quality lights suited for the intended use. Follow basic safety precautions for optimal enjoyment of versatile portable illumination. With the wide range of styles and features now available, you can find portable lighting solutions to suit nearly any home, office, or outdoor lighting need.