Kim Fundingsland/MDN  Modern LED lighting has replaced fluorescent bulbs at Cash Wise Foods. Not only do the LED lights improve the color of the lighting in the store but reduce energy costs by 55 percent.

Technological advances in lighting systems not only increases efficiency and saves money, but can also greatly enhance product appeal for customers when used in retail settings.

Motion sensors and LED (light emitting diode) lighting are not entirely new offerings but they are increasing in popularity as the practicality of both becomes proven as more and more applications are discovered. Motion detector lights have become common for homeowners. While a few such residential lights can be used for convenience and safety, commercial applications are reaping benefits as well.

A growing number of retail businesses have made the switch from conventional lighting to more modern systems. Among the businesses in Minot that benefit from the newer technology is Cash Wise Foods, which made the conversion from traditional overhead fluorescent lighting.

“They were all fluorescent light bulbs but they’re all LED now,” said Justin Crocker, store director. “The lighting color is correct and the energy consumption is considerably less.”

Furthermore, added Crocker, the overhead LED lighting operates on the same ballasts as were used for the old fluorescent bulbs. The new LED bulbs are 18 watt, as compared to the old 40 watt fluorescent bulbs. The new lighting system is brighter than when the store used fluorescent and saves money. The switch from fluorescent to LEDs has resulted in a 55 percent savings annually at Cash Wise Foods.

There’s another benefit too, said Crocker. “LEDs enhance the color of our products and packaging. That’s a good point.”

Another plus resulting from the change is reduced maintenance. The T8-style fluorescent bulbs needed replacing a minimum of every three years. The LED bulbs have a five-year warranty.

Cash Wise Foods makes generous and effective use of motion sensor technology as well. Display cases, such as in their dairy section, turn off when not needed and light up brightly when customers approach.

“It’s really a neat thing,” remarked Crocker. “I’ve never had a store that had those until I came to this company. It’s energy efficient, obviously, without having those lights on all the time. It helps out with the longevity of the bulbs too because they are not on all the time.”

LED lights are used in display cases and coolers throughout Cash Wise. LED lights give off less heat than the older fluorescents, which reduces fog on cooler doors and results in less energy used by the refrigeration system.

“The coolers are all electronic and computerized too,” explained Crocker. “Based on the conditions within the cooler and the ambient air temperatures in the store, it kicks compressors and fans on and off, whatever it needs to do to maximize the efficiency within those coolers.”