TLI Policies & Frequently Asked Questions

Tailored Lighting, Inc. (TLI) Policies

We take great pride in being able to provide you with excellent customer service. Should you have any questions or concerns please have all your paperwork in front of you before you contact us so we have the information to give you the quickest response possible.

Ordering

You may choose a variety of ways to order -whatever works well for you. Once we receive your orders you will be mailed a summary separate from your order.  

Phone Orders

You can call 1-800-254-4487 (1-800-2LIGHTS) to speak to one of our representatives. Our representatives can provide valuable advice as to which products to purchase. They can take your order at the same price quoted on-line. They can also provide volume discounts when applicable.

On-Line

You may order by using our on-line store. Just check off your selections and head for the checkout. Our ordering site is on a secured server, which allows us to receive your customer information without outside interference therefore making it safe to place your orders online.

Fax Orders

Placing your orders by Fax also reduces confusion and decreases the possibility of user entry errors. The biggest advantage is reducing the amount of time on the phone. This is a great option for people, who do not have access to the web, but you do, or you would not be reading this now. Our fax number is 1-585-328-2198. All orders will be shipped UPS Ground unless indicated otherwise. Please include:

Payments

We accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard and American Express) For Check in Advance (CIA) orders mail in payment using a Personal Check, Business Check, Cashiers Check, Bank Check or Money Order. Any other arrangement would have to be discussed with a sales representative.

Shipping

All our orders are sent UPS Ground unless otherwise specified. We cannot guarantee same day shipping. In order to assure an overnight order, we must receive the order before 2 p.m. Eastern Time. If you have questions or special needs, please call us!

Warranties Remedies, and Damage:
TLI warrants that all goods at the time of delivery to a carrier for shipment shall conform to TLI’s specifications for the goods as of the date of shipment. All TLI fixtures are warranted for 1 year and prorated for five years. For example, if a fixture fails within two years of use, the customer, after TLI's receipt of the faulty item with proper documentation and RMA#, can purchase a replacement for 20% of the retail price, within 3 years 40%,within 4 years 60%, and within 5 years 80% of the retail price. TLI reserves the right to modify the terms of this warranty for the following reasons: (1) evidence of misuse or handling of the product (2) product discontinued. THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, (A) ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, (B) ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY THAT ANY USE OF THE GOODS BY BUYER OR ANY OF ITS CUSTOMERS WILL NOT VIOLATE OR INFRINGE ANY PATENT OR OTHER PROPRIETARY RIGHTS OF THIRD PARTIES, AND (C) ANY OTHER OBLIGATION OR LIABILITY ON THE PART OF TLI. Buyer’s exclusive remedy for its timely rejection of non-conforming goods or for an other failure of TLI to perform its obligations with respect to the goods (a) is subject to TLI’s inspection of the claimed non-conforming goods after their return by Buyer to TLI in the condition received by Buyer and (b) is limited at TLI’s sole option either to replacement of the non-conforming goods by TLI within a reasonable time or to repayment by TLI of the amounts paid against the purchase price. TLI SHALL NOT IN ANY CASE BE LIABLE TO ANYONE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, OR OTHER SIMILAR DAMAGES ARISING FROM BREACH OF WARRANTY, BREACH OF CONTRACT, NEGLIGENCE, OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY EVEN IF TLI HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. TLI INSTALLS ITS OWN LIGHT SOURCES AND OPTICS IN PRODUCTS SOLD AND IN SOME CASES MAKES MODIFICATIONS TO FIXTURES FOR OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE.  THIS MAY REQUIRE OPENING OF PRODUCT BOXES AT COMPANY LOCATION.  ALL PRODUCTS OFFERED BY TLI ARE BRAND NEW UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED.

Returns

Failure by Buyer to notify TLI of any defects in the goods within five (5) business days after delivery shall constitute a waiver of any claim for any defects in conforming to TLI’s specifications for the goods or otherwise. If you wish to return you must call us at 1-585-328-2170 or e-mail us at returns@solux.net to receive a Return Merchandise Authorization number (RMA). A re-stocking fee of 25% of the original purchase price may be charged on returns. Restocking fee will not be charged on returns due to an error by TLI or if returned within 30 days of purchase and returned in original packing in "like new" condition. No RMA will be issued for bulbs after 30 days or for special orders. The RMA# must be written on the outside of the shipping carton(s) in order to be processed.  Send to us at: 

Tailored Lighting Inc.

50 Bermar Park, Suite 4A

Rochester, NY 14624

Attn: Returns

Frequently Asked Questions

The SoLux Technology

What is SoLux?

SoLux is a patented new light bulb that simulates daylight far better than any other light bulb on the market. It is a high performance –halogen type bulb that currently comes in a MR-16 format.

How accurately does SoLux simulate daylight?

Color Rendering Index (CRI) is one indicator of that ability, and a CRI of 100 is considered perfect. SoLux bulbs have virtually perfect CRIs of over 98 and 99. This makes SoLux the best light available for seeing true colors. (Click on the above banner to see technical proof from a spectral plot.)

What about Ultraviolet (UV) and Infra-red (IR) light?

In addition to the superior color rendering abilities, SoLux has been engineered to have very low heat (IR) output and ultra-low UV output. That combined aspect of extremely high color rendering and extremely low UV and low IR is extraordinary. It means that with SoLux, you will have the brilliance of daylight without the negatives aspects of UV and IR. The result is a superior presentation that won’t cook or bleach the subject being illuminated. 

Does SoLux filter out the UV and IR? - UV article

Yes, SoLux filters out the harmful UV and IR radiation leaving only pure daylight. Famous paintings around the world by artists such as van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt are illuminated with SoLux safely and brilliantly!

Why is it better than halogen bulbs - Daylight article

Simply, SoLux unlike regular halogen lights emits a daylight spectrum that is pure white, not yellow.  It’s like comparing an economy car to a luxury car. All will provide light, some will do it less expensively but the quality of light will be far superior. All halogen bulbs have the advantages of having a long life, The SoLux bulbs are rated to last 4000 hours.

Why is the SoLux full spectrum bulb superior to all other products that are labeled as full-spectrum?

Full-spectrum can be a misleading term - technically a candle can be considered full-spectrum. What is implied is that the light provides ideal light for rendering colors. This can only really be determined by looking at the spectral power distribution graphs for a given light source. SoLux is the only daylight simulation product that emits a full and even spectral power distribution equivalent to daylight.

Uses of SoLux

Who uses SoLux?

Homeowners, museums, galleries, and stores use SoLux because it provides a superior presentation to artwork, jewelry, living areas, clothing and textiles. In addition, many companies use SoLux to make accurate judgments on color. 

1. Display

SoLux bulbs are the ideal choice for display lighting of all kinds. Whether your needs are commercial or residential.

2. Galleries

Whatever the medium, SoLux puts the best light on art, photography, glass, textiles and much more. Most artists compose their works under naturally lit conditions.  SoLux reproduces these natural lighting conditions to recreate the original image the artist intended with all of its splendor.

3. Jewelry Stores

Thousands of jewelry stores around the world already are taking advantage of the superior presentation provided by SoLux to best highlight their fine diamonds, gem stones, and precious metals. 

4. Trade Shows

Because of the superior presentation, ease of assembly, flexibility, preservation qualities not to mention low heat to stand under. SoLux makes the ideal choice for your trade show set up. Just starting out? Call 1-800-254-4487 and speak to our resident expert.

5. Retail Stores

Customers get the very best presentation with SoLux. The difference is dramatic to see a store lit with SoLux as opposed to the more common fluorescent lighting. Use it to light counters, displays and dressing rooms. It will make your merchandise and your CUSTOMERS look their very best. Independent studies have shown sales increase an average of 40% when products are sold under natural lighting  conditions.  It is time to start thinking of lighting as an effective way to increase revenues as opposed to a necessary overhead cost.

6. Museums

Many museums including the National Gallery of Art, Philadelphia, High, Guggenheim, Van Gogh Museum, all have chosen SoLux to best display and preserve their finest pieces.  No other light source in the world is more specified for illuminating artwork than SoLux. 

7. Homes

Use SoLux at home in any room. Track and recessed fixtures can be used to provide high quality light in all your living spaces formal and informal. Use the in the bathroom and closet to best see colors of clothing and make up. Use task lamps for reading, homework and hobbies. Bring daylight into any room in the house. 

8. Preservation

Protect your stuff! Because SoLux has reduced the heat (IR) and reduced the harmful UV rays, it is the ideal choice for lighting items that are subject to damage from natural or artificial light sources. This aspect is a major reason why it is the choice for many masterworks.

9. Studio

Whether you are a professional or amateur artist or craftsperson, SoLux helps you create the ideal environment for your creative space. The superior color rendering helps you make the most accurate judgments and the reduced heat makes it comfortable to work under that light.

10. Photography

The color proofing light kit was specifically created to address the needs of the photography community. Hundreds of satisfied users have solved their problem of having the proper lighting to evaluate photographs once and for all.

Can I use SoLux in my home?

Yes, SoLux can be used in the home with track lighting fixtures or recessed lighting fixtures. These fixtures need to be specified as low voltage fixtures which are carried by most hardware and lighting stores. You also have the option of using an adapter fixture that allows you to screw SoLux into a standard lamp socket.

Personal Benefits

Does SoLux work for Seasonal Affective Disorder?

SAD is a condition that typically occurs in winter and is very closely tied to the lack of exposure to daylight. Light therapy is the most effective way to treat this disorder. SoLux goes one step further to providing bright light, it simulates the full range of qualities that daylight has.

For many years, people associated bright lights with daylight. This simply is not true. Daylight has a quality all its own, and natural daylight is considered to be the best light source for treating seasonal effective disorder. The light emitted by SoLux is the closest simulation to natural daylight money can buy. SoLux is so unique it is patented. If you are not convinced SoLux is the very best light source in the world, show us a better quality light source and we'll refund your money.

Is using SoLux an effective way to treat SAD?

Yes, using SoLux can be an effective way to treat SAD.  Please click to learn more about SoLux in treating SAD.

Is SoLux better than a bright fluorescent "daylight" light in treating SAD?

We maintain a light source that replicates Daylight more accurately is more effective in treating SAD.  

Learning

Independent Studies have confirmed higher scores that equate to a full grade point increase, yes, you read that right, one full grade point in math and reading for students who are exposed to a naturally lit environment. Learn more.

Selecting Products

How do I know that I am ordering the right thing?

Please review our help topics to best select the products to fit your needs and head to the on-line store. You can always talk to one of our sales representatives by calling toll-free at 1-800-254-4487 to help make your selections and pace your order. If you are interested in design services please let us know at the same number.

What is the difference between using a low voltage and line voltage?

In the US, most of your standard wall electrical outlets are rated at 120 or 130 volts. In order to use SoLux products the power has to go through a transformer to reduce it to 12 volts. Each track fixture and all our other fixtures such as task lamps have a transformer within it to allow it to use the SoLux bulb.

Selecting Bulbs

Why don’t you have 100-watt or 75-watt bulbs?

Basically - there is very little demand for the higher watt bulbs. MR-16 bulbs like SoLux are a "directional bulb". It’s beam is concentrated rather than providing a diffuse globe of light like a regular household light bulb, so less energy is needed to provide more intense light. 100 - wattMR-16 bulbs aren’t even manufactured because the bulb itself would become too hot and it would not be energy efficient. Few fixtures are manufactured that can handle the heat of a 75-watt MR-16 bulb.

Do you have screw-in bulbs for regular household lamp-fixtures that have the SoLux technology?

Not yet - keep tuned. We have been working on the technology necessary to make it happen for over three years.  In the mean time you can use a retro- adapter fixture, a device that can screw into a line voltage fixture like a recessed apparatus that the MR-16 can then be used in.

In selecting a bulb to order. determine your needs

To order a SoLux bulb you must specify the color temperature, beam spread and wattage of the bulb. What you select is ultimately a matter of your personal preference but the following can give you an idea of how to get the effect you want. Color temperature, in particular, seems to be very individualized. You may want to order one of each color temperature to test out your own preference before placing your full order or call 1-800-254-4487 (1-800-2LIGHTS) and ask for help.

Track Lighting

Different Types of Track

Not all tracks are the same. We carry "Halo" or grounded track. If you look on the inside you will see that there are 3 floating copper wires (2 on one side, 1 on the other). These "buss bars" are what make contact with the tabs on a fixture. Grounded track is recommended by most electricians and is a requirement for many trade shows. Unless you specify otherwise, our fixtures are compatible with Halo track.

Will my track work with your fixtures?

If you already have track, check to see what kind you have. If it has the 3 buss bars, you probably have grounded track. If you only have 2, you may have Juno or Lightolier track. If you don not want to change your track we may still be able to accommodate you. You can order Juno compatible fixtures if needed. Never force a fixture into a track. A fixture should set into a track easily and swivel into place with an easy click. If you are forcing it you will bend the tabs and not make the kind of connection necessary for optimal performance of your system.

How do I order track?

To order track you need to know:

Shipping Considerations

If you have in your design track lengths of 6 and 8 or longer, consider joining 2 or 3 shorter lengths with mini-joiners. Unless you are ordering at least 8 pieces of the longer track lengths, there is a risk that they will be bent in shipping. Also the shipping charges are higher because of the odd shape. Mini-joiners are an almost seamless way of bringing together track lengths.

Fixtures

How many fixtures can go on a track?

This depends on the amp rating for the circuit breaker powering your track. Each fixture with a 50 watt bulb will draw about a ½ amp so assuming there is no other draw on that circuit breaker you could put up to 30 fixtures. This allows for a healthy safety margin. We suggest you have a qualified electrician advise you before installing a lot of track and fixtures. Physically - you can fit 6-7 track fixtures on a 4-foot length of track. You may want to do this for a tradeshow where you are pointing the heads in different directions and do not want a complicated set-up. However, for most purposes you will want to space them out more in accordance with the beamspread of the bulb, distance to objects being lit and effect you are trying to get.

Other Fixtures

Task lamps

Our different task lamps are ideal for reading, artistic and handiwork. Choose between the table, floor and rolling-floor models.

Clip on

These are a great choice when you have limited space or want to change your light a lot - good for dorm rooms, bedrooms, trade shows...

Retro- Adapter System

This screws into a line-voltage (120 volt) fixture such as a recessed can or line voltage track fixture. 

Recessed

We also have a variety of recessed fixtures for an MR-16 bulb for unobtrusive spot lighting.

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Last modified: 07 Jun 2007 11:09:55 -0400