When you invest in a stage lighting system, you expect high quality and longevity. If your lights started to look dull and a bit past their best only three years later, you’d understandably be frustrated. The disruption of having new lights installed wouldn’t be great for your business, and the expense certainly won’t be good for your bank balance.
Fortunately, if you do start to notice your lights losing brightness, it doesn’t always mean you’ll have to fork out again for another new set. More often than not, they’re simply dirty and in desperate need of a good clean.
If your stage lights could do with a little livening up, take a look at the simple steps detailed below. It might seem like a mammoth task to clean all of your lighting kit in one go, but a thorough clean can make a noticeable difference to their brightness and overall performance.
Check your venue’s diary and find a few days when there are no events taking place. Then set aside an area front of house or backstage and get to work.
You’ll need:
• Tools: A basic set of tools in case you need to dismantle the fitting to access the inside.
• Your equipment: Unplugged, safely placed on the ground and, most importantly, completely cool.
• Cleaning solution: Lint-free cloths, mild detergent, warm water, a vacuum cleaner and a soft duster.
Theatres can be dusty places, and dirt can gather quite thickly on your lantern stock. Begin by dusting down the outside of the fixtures, paying particular attention to any openings or cooling vents. Clean these thoroughly to remove any build-up of dust. Wipe over especially dusty areas with a mild detergent and warm water.
Take the lamp apart as you normally would, remove the light from the casing and place it somewhere safe. Then use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust from inside the casing and around any cooling grills.
Next, clean the reflector (the silver surface inside), taking care to remove dust and marks without damaging its reflective coating.
Clean the lens on both sides by wiping away any dirt or dust build-up with a damp cloth and mild detergent, then polish it using a lint-free cloth. Avoid touching the lens with your fingers afterwards, as fingerprints can quickly undo your hard work.
Once everything is clean, carefully reassemble the fitting and return it to its position.
Regular cleaning will help keep your stage lighting looking its best, allowing you to enjoy brighter output and ensuring your productions continue to look as impressive and dazzling as they should. While it may take a little time every now and again, the results are well worth the effort.
If you’d like advice on stage lighting or are considering upgrading your equipment, our team is always happy to help. Whether you’re planning a refurbishment or a completely new installation, get in touch to discuss your requirements and request a no-obligation quotation.