Fiber Optic Lighting FAQs

Q: What is fiber optic lighting?

Fiber optics are cables that act as a light guide. The fiber cable can have a single fiber core or many inner fibers that are transparent and encased by a protective sheath. Light, when entering the fiber, is transmitted either from the side of the cable like a neon-type light or it sends the light to the end of the fiber cable.

Q: Are fibers safe?

Fiber optics are passive elements therefore, do not use power to generate light, as is the case with lamps. Fiber optic light guides only carry light from one point to another, never electricity.

Fiber optics can be put under or in direct contact with water. When handled, fibers can be cut, broken, or even hammered and be totally safe as the fibers are transmitting only light. Standard lighting fiber optics have a very restricted transmission window with most UVs not transmitted through the fiber cores. In fact, the amount of infrared and UV issuing from fiber optics, in most instances, is negligible.

Q: What is the difference between fiber optic lighting and LED lighting?

Fiber optics transmit light from an illuminator without power in the fiber cables. The light produced by the illuminator travels through the fiber cables to shine at the other end and create effects like starlights. Each starlight does not contain power, it simply shines light that is produced by the illuminator. Fiber cables will shine light provided the illuminator is in working order. A fiber optic lighting setup is also energy efficient as the illuminator is the only electrical device drawing power.  

LED lighting requires power to each LED and when an LED fails, it will need to be replaced to keep the lighting feature effective as when new. Adding synchronized color changes and twinkling effects requires programming to each LED the costs associated to do this grow very quickly with equipment, programming and installation. If an LED fails it will need to be replaced, the ongoing maintenance and costs can sometimes be more painful than keeping the feature active.    

Q: What is an illuminator?

An illuminator, light source or light generator is basically a box with a lamp inside, pointing towards an opening where the fiber optics are secured. The illuminator is what makes the fiber cable change colors and dim as well as other functions.

Q: Can fiber optics be submerged in water?

Yes, fiber cables can be semi or fully submerged in water-treated environments such as pools and spas. Fiber cables can be submerged in depths of 1.5m (5ft) or more.

Q: How long can fiber optics last?

Fiber optic cables can last 15 years and more dependent on the environment they are in. Illuminators can have shorter lifespans if servicing and maintenance have not been followed correctly.