LED Wash Lights
In a business where first impressions can be everything, LED lighting captures attention, amplifies branding, and lays the groundwork for an incredible customer experience.
Wash lights are great for bathing a large area in a soft, even light. Many have DMX functionality to allow you to connect them to a lighting rig and perform synchronised effects, colours or shows.
DMX
DMX is a digital-network communication standard that offers LED control systems an incredible range of options. Originally developed in the 1980s, it’s now one of the main choices for stage lighting, upscale venues and complex lighting effects. DMX gives your lighting equipment instructions stage light manufacturer on what to do, when to do it and how to do it.
Essentially, the protocol works by sending data packets via a set of shielded cables wired in twisted pairs. Each fixture on your network gets a specific ID/address and can be controlled independently from the rest. You can also daisy-chain DMX cable from fixture to light, as long as you have each one with its own address.
To get started with DMX control, you’ll need a DMX receiver (also known as a decoder unit). This converts the DMX data into a pulse width modulated power source that the LED can interpret. Then all you need is a compatible controller to send the correct signals.
With a little practice, you can easily use DMX to change your LED lights’ colours, settings and other features. DMX is a supplier-independent protocol, so you can mix and match different brands of lighting fixtures without getting inconsistent results. For instance, if you have an event with a corporate client coming, you can use your DMX system to change the colour of your cove lights to match their brand.
Colour Changing
Unlike traditional lighting, LED wash lights have a color changing feature that allows the user to change the white hue of the light. It can also be used to create different colors in the spectrum, making it a versatile piece of equipment. These features allow users to customize their light show and give their event a unique look.
LED wash lights are perfect for adding a base layer of light to a room, creating the initial ambiance and feel before introducing other lighting effects like strobes or lasers. They can be placed on the floor or hanging from the ceiling to cover larger areas of the room and are generally portable, making them ideal for DJ’s and bands.
While a single par light is usually not enough to fill a large area, LED wash lights can be stacked together to produce more powerful outputs. Some models can even be run in a synchronized mode, enabling multiple units to work together without the need for a master/slave connection.
LED wash lights are becoming increasingly popular, especially as they use less power than traditional fixtures and do not generate much heat. Some Led Follow spot lights models can even be controlled remotely using a wireless DMX system. The Cameo ZENIT W600, for example, has 3 and 5 pin XLR connectors for DMX data in/out and can be linked to other fixtures using the built-in 2.4 GHz & RDM transceiver for wireless master-and-slave operation.
Master/Slave Synchronisation
Wash lights are a staple piece of lighting equipment that every venue, mobile DJ or band needs to create an amazing atmosphere. Whether used on their own or combined with other more focused light fixtures like beams and spot lights, they can help create a more dramatic effect for the stage.
There are a few different types of wash light available, including the LED par can which outputs a circular wash pattern and is available in a range of wattages as well as being waterproof and energy efficient. LED par lights are also usually available in both warm white and full color.
Another type of wash light is the linear fixture which is often found on trusses, bars or poles and can be either a simple bar that is available in a few wattages or a more complex strip-light that has a rotating head that can produce an angled beam. Linear wash lights are typically available in quad (RGB-White) or penta (RGBW-Amber) LEDs and can be a great choice for creating a runway effect on stage.
Many of the best LED wash lights have master/slave synchronisation functionality which allows them to be linked together and run simultaneously with other fixtures on a rig. This can be useful for large productions because it means that the entire stage can be washed in the same colour at the same time, creating a professional-looking synchronised light show.
Weatherproof
Generally, wash LED lights are used to highlight the focal points of your exterior design. However, they can also be used to highlight other areas as well. Regardless of the specific application, these lights provide a soft and diffused light that creates a warm ambiance. They also come in various brightness levels and colour options. To determine which type of LED lighting fixture to use, you should consider the size and distance between each light. The longer the distance between each light, the brighter the fixture will appear.
In the past, wash lighting was limited to a single colour with changes made by applying filters or gels. The latest models of this type of LED lighting are able to offer a range of popular colours without the need for any filters or gels. The result is a more cost effective solution that produces less heat.
While site lighting may not be a primary focus for many carwash owners, customers notice it and will likely remember your location. This is why it’s important to invest in a good LED system that can enhance the appearance of your facility and boost your bottom line. Many LED suppliers specialize in this area, so you’ll have the help you need to develop a plan for your facility. By combining the right LED technology with your existing wiring, you can upgrade your site quickly and affordably.