For lighting professionals, equipment downtime is inevitable during seasonal gaps—especially in environments like event venues, schools, theaters, and outdoor stages. Off-seasons present an ideal opportunity to preserve, maintain, and organize lighting gear so that it remains in optimal condition when the next event cycle begins.
Improper storage can lead to corrosion, optical degradation, and even safety hazards due to damaged cables or fixtures. This guide provides detailed tips on how to properly store your lighting equipment during off-seasons—ensuring longevity, reliability, and operational readiness.
1. Clean and Inspect Every Fixture
Before putting anything into storage, a thorough cleaning and inspection is essential.
Cleaning Checklist:
Exterior Housing: Wipe dust, fingerprints, and grime using microfiber cloths and isopropyl alcohol (70%).
Lens and Filters: Use lens-safe optical wipes to remove residue and restore clarity.
Cooling Fans and Vents: Blow out dust with compressed air to avoid overheating issues.
Connectors: Use electrical contact cleaner on DMX and power ports.
Inspection Tips:
Look for loose screws, cracked plastic, or warped brackets.
Check for signs of rust on mounting hardware.
Inspect gobo wheels, zoom/focus mechanisms, and moving head motors for wear.
Tip: Document any repairs needed before the next deployment.
2. Label and Inventory Your Equipment
Use the off-season to establish a clear and digital inventory of all your lighting gear.
How to:
Assign asset tags or QR codes to each fixture and cable.
Use inventory apps like Asset Panda, Rentman, or even a simple Google Sheet.
Categorize items by type, wattage, location, and condition.
Benefits:
3. Coil and Store Cables Properly
Cables are among the most commonly damaged items during storage—often due to kinks, tangles, or improper wrapping.
Cable Storage Best Practices:
Use over-under coiling to prevent internal twist damage.
Label each cable with length and function (e.g., “10m DMX”).
Avoid tight zip ties—use velcro straps instead.
Hang heavy-duty cables or lay them flat in shallow bins.
Tip: Group cables by usage: DMX, powerCON, extension, IEC.
4. Choose the Right Storage Environment
Environmental conditions have a direct impact on fixture lifespan.
Optimal Storage Conditions:
| Factor | Recommended Value |
|---|
| Temperature | 10°C–25°C (50°F–77°F) |
| Humidity | Below 60% (use dehumidifiers) |
| Dust Protection | Closed containers or covers |
| Light Exposure | Store away from direct sunlight |
Don’t Store:
Near heating vents or exterior walls in cold climates.
In attics, basements, or garages without insulation.
In sealed plastic bags that trap condensation.
5. Use Protective Cases and Organizers
Investing in proper storage hardware extends your gear’s working life.
Recommended Solutions:
Foam-lined flight cases for moving heads and expensive fixtures.
Cable bins or reels with dividers.
Hanging storage racks for PAR lights or slim bar fixtures.
Stackable plastic crates for accessories (gobos, barn doors, clamps).
Add silica gel packets to absorb moisture.
6. Power On and Test Periodically
Even when not in use, electronics degrade if left dormant for too long.
Suggested Practice:
Every 6–8 weeks, plug in major fixtures:
Run them through DMX test patterns or built-in demos.
Check fans, LCD screens, motors, and color wheels.
Recharge battery-powered lights or run power cycles to prevent cell drain.
Tip: This practice helps spot silent failures before the next live show.
7. Secure Your Storage Space
Don’t overlook security, especially if storing valuable gear over months.
Steps to Take:
Use padlocks and CCTV for physical storage areas.
If renting a unit, choose facilities with insurance coverage.
Limit access to authorized staff only.
Add tamper-evident seals to cases and bins.
8. Prepare for Easy Deployment
Use the storage downtime to prepare for faster and safer re-deployment.
Restock expendables: gaffer tape, clamps, cables, safety wires.
Pre-address fixtures for DMX universes.
Print out patch sheets and store them inside cases.
Pre-label fixture modes or presets for quick startup.
Tip: Pack each case or crate with everything needed for one rig section (lights, clamps, power, data).
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