Skip to content
Address LightingLighting culture & awareness

Home / Knowledge library / Installation error

Installation error

Neglecting Flicker-Free technology

Reviewed under Eng. Abdullah Al Balushi

Buying cheap Drivers that cause rapid flicker, which tires the eyes and nerves when sitting for long periods.

Related to

Similar entries

Common mistakeThe facade-lighting mistake of mounting flush to the wall

“Want your facade light to throw a stunning beam? Don't mount it flush against the wall!”

The problem
Mounting wall lights flush against the wall creates a harsh, very distracting Hotspot that spoils the facade.
Technical explanation
Moving the fitting slightly away from the wall and choosing the correct aiming angle gives a long, ideal beam that highlights the villa's height up to 16 m.
The result
A facade that catches the eye of the whole neighbourhood, at low cost and with smart installation.

Page for this entry

Common mistakeDotted light (Dots) on shelves

“You made luxurious marble shelves, and the strip's reflection shows up as dots? There goes the luxury!”

The problem
Installing a standard LED strip above glossy surfaces (marble or mirrors), which reflects the LED dots and looks cheap.
Technical explanation
Glossy surfaces need either a dot-free strip (COB LED) or an aluminium profile with a Diffuser that hides the dots completely.
The result
A smooth, continuous line of light that feels refined and luxurious.

Page for this entry

Common mistakeOverdoing outdoor lighting (Floodlights)

“Installed stadium floodlights on your villa facade? You haven't lit it up, you've washed out its features!”

The problem
Flooding the facade with wide light erases the architectural details and creates light pollution.
Technical explanation
Highlighting a facade needs a well-planned layout of upward and downward Spotlights with narrow beams to create “contrast” between light and shadow, because shadow is what reveals the beauty.
The result
A palace-like facade with a far smaller electricity and installation budget.

Page for this entry

Common mistakeFalse savings on the lighting budget

“Want to save on your lighting budget? Don't buy cheap, use the “hybrid system”!”

The problem
Buying cheap products for the whole villa to save money, which leads to burnt-out fittings and double the maintenance cost.
Technical explanation
The hybrid system means combining very high-spec fittings (for the majlis, living rooms and facade) with mid-range fittings (for service rooms and storerooms).
The result
Cutting costs by up to 40% while keeping 100% of the luxury in the areas guests see.

Page for this entry

Spec explainedProtecting outdoor lighting (IP65)

“Why do your courtyard lights fail after every rain or wash-down? Check for this spec!”

The problem
Outdoor lighting and shower-area fittings getting damaged by water and humidity.
Technical explanation
An IP65 rating ensures the fitting is fully sealed against water jets and dust.
The result
Lighting that lasts in the toughest Gulf climate conditions, and savings on maintenance.

Page for this entry

ComparisonWall Washer vs Wall Grazer

“Want to light a stone or marble wall? Mix up these two fittings and you'll regret it!”

The problem
Not knowing which type of light suits the nature of the wall.
Technical explanation
A Wall Washer spreads light softly and hides wall imperfections (excellent for plain walls). A Wall Grazer casts light at a sharp angle to bring out patterns and texture (excellent for stone and marble).
The result
Showcasing the beauty of expensive materials (such as stone and marble) that you have invested heavily in.

Page for this entry

ComparisonIP20 vs. IP65 fixtures in the bathroom

“Why do your bathroom lights keep flickering and failing? You’re choosing the wrong protection!”

The problem
Electronics damaged by steam
Technical explanation
IP20 is meant for dry rooms. Directly above the shower you must use IP65, which is fully sealed against water spray and steam
The result
Safety for your family from short circuits, and savings on replacing burnt-out lights

Page for this entry

ComparisonConventional approach vs. the “hybrid approach”

“Want to save 40% of your lighting budget without losing the luxury? The secret is hybrid!”

The problem
Buying expensive products for the whole villa, or cheap ones for the whole villa
Technical explanation
The hybrid approach means using very high-spec fixtures (for the Majlis, living rooms and façade) and mid-quality fixtures (for service rooms and storerooms)
The result
Smart budget savings while still impressing guests in the reception areas

Page for this entry

Guide values; the final decision rests with a qualified engineer under the applicable code.

MistakesFree consultation