The type of flash patterns available depends on the model of Carmanah Light. For example, the 501, 601 and 701 are currently available from the factory in the five most common flash patterns (10, 15, 30, 60 flashes/min & steady-on) for general purpose uses, including "steady on".

All models are available in red, green, amber, white and blue LED output colors. For daytime indication, red, amber, blue or green lenses are also available on request.

For the Model 501, the flash rates is set from the factory. For the Model 601 and 701, the flash code can be changed at any time using the optional infrared programmer.

The expected life span of the encapsulated units (Models 501 and 601) is dependent on the life of the battery system, which in turn is dependant on the area of installation and operating conditions. However, these units have been designed to last up to five years under extreme environmental conditions.

The batteries in the Models 701 are replaceable and, ideally, these units should last for decades. It is interesting to note that the LEDs used in all Carmanah Lights should last at least 100,000 hours -- or 27 years of continuous operation at 10 hours per day -- as long as the units remain intact.

See the product specifications for each model.

At this time, the batteries are replaceable only for the 701 Series units. All other models have been designed to operate for up to five years with absolutely no maintenance or servicing required. At the end of their lifespan the entire unit is replaced. Please note, the batteries in the old units are recyclable. Contact your local lead-acid battery recycler regarding proper disposal.

All lights use special lead-tin acid batteries that perform extremely well under harsh environmental conditions. Specifically, they are sealed, rechargeable batteries that provide a large energy capacity for their size and deliver extremely reliable power output over a long period of time.

Carmanah Lights use LEDs (light emitting diodes) for their light source, which are far more efficient in their power consumption than incandescent bulbs. Incandescent lamps expend much of their energy in the form heat dissipation (85%), whereas LEDs waste relatively little energy as heat.

Other than the 701 units, all Carmanah Lights are completely sealed and are designed to be completely reliable and maintenance-free for the duration of their lifespan. They never require bulb or battery replacement for up to five years, at which time the entire light is replaceable. The maintenance-free capabilities of Carmanah Lights provides a distinct advantage over traditional marine lighting, particularly in countries that must import the light bulbs and batteries, as well as the lights. It also means there is a significant cost savings in terms of the labor required for maintaining and servicing traditional navigation lighting.

Due to the size and relative cost of the 701 Lights, these models feature a replaceable battery pack that extends their life indefinitely.

Carmanah Lights are designed for maintenance-free performance. The unique structure of the Carmanah Lights typically relieves you from any cleaning duty under most circumstances. These lights are operating in a variety of climates worldwide without the need to clean the lens.

Carmanah Lights were designed for use in rugged, remote areas where the need for self-cleaning products is paramount. The patented solar dome is typically self-cleaning and ensures that your light will receive maximum sunlight and therefore, enhanced product reliability throughout its lifespan.

The lifetime of an LED (light emitting diode) at least 100,000 hours, depending on the color -- or 27 years assuming the LED is in operation continuously for 10 hours a day.

The operating temperature range of the lead-acid batteries used in Carmanah Lights limits the operating temperature range of the products. As the ambient temperature increases, the expected life of the battery may decrease. Optimum battery life will be achieved by mounting the unit on the coolest available surface. Carmanah Lights have been successfully used in temperatures ranging from -40°C (-40°F) to +80°C (176°F). Heat sinking or attaching your unit to metal that extends to a water source, will moderate the ambient temperature of the unit and extend its life. As well, where possible, resist mounting the lights on high-heat surfaces such as black roofs or tarmac, as these surfaces will degrade the life of the unit over time.

Once the lead-acid batteries in Carmanah Lights are discharged, they prefer to be "fast charged" to restore their capacity to full power. The proprietary MicroSource™ circuitry in our lights is designed to restore a full charge as quickly as possible. The result of this charging regimen is that the unit will shut off at a particular level of battery charge and will not resume operation until there is a significant recharging of the battery.

The Model 501 has a temporary magnetic "switch" in its base designed to prevent the units battery from being discharged or damaged during storage or transport. The switch is very simple and consists of a powerful external magnet (about the size of a typical watch battery) that fits in depression in the base the product. To activate the Model 501 prior to mounting, simply remove the magnet by placing the unit's base against any magnetic surface (iron, steel, etc.).

The magnet is used to protect the battery during storing and shipping only. It MUST be removed from the bottom of the Model 501 for the unit to work! Once removed, the magnet is only needed again if and when the light is to be stored. It is recommended that the magnet be kept in a safe place for such an occasion.   Top