A Buyer’s Guide to LED Retrofitting
LEDs or light emitting diodes are now widely used in lighting systems as they offer many benefits such as reduced power consumption, bright white light in less wattage, and long operational life of lights among others. This eco-friendly and cost-effective lighting system has gained momentum for the last few years. The best part is you can retrofit an LED lighting system in place of your existing lighting system, as this has many benefits including reduced energy bills. Retrofitting includes indoor as well as outdoor systems. There are various types of lights based on the location and the level of luminosity required in a given area. Also, many governments offer rebates upon installing LED systems; however, there are certain terms and conditions. This post discusses some useful pointers for buyers considering LED retrofitting.
Factors to Consider When Buying LED Retrofit Kits
If you have an old house, changing the existing electrical system including lights and cables makes sense for many reasons, and LED retrofit kits are an excellent option for the same. Here are some pointers which may be helpful for buyers:
- While some users may want to change the entire electrical fittings including wiring, others may require only the lights and fixtures, keeping the wiring in its place. When retrofitting, you have this option.
- Such kits usually comprise an LED light panel and a driver to be installed in the existing fixtures.
- Apart from reduced energy consumption, LEDs are absolutely safe as they do not contain mercury or toxic chemicals.
- Retrofitting is relatively low on cost compared to new installing new fixtures, and it saves time as you do not have to remove wires and fixtures, which would otherwise add up to the time and cost.
- Most LEDs are dimmable, which means you can adjust the luminosity to suit your requirement, and this also saves energy consumption.
- Analyze the area where you want to replace the lights. Is it dark so that you need more light during the day? In this case, you can add more lights and it need not be a one to one replacement.
- Also, consider the wattage vis-a-vis the luminosity you require. The wattage required for an equally bright LED bulb is lesser than the normal halogen or incandescent bulb. For instance, to replace a 150-watt incandescent bulb, a 30-watt LED bulb is sufficient.
- Especially, in case of dark portions in your home or a given area, consider dimmable lights as they adjust their luminosity based on the natural light available.
- If you plan LED retrofitting at your business facility or an industrial premise, it is even more beneficial as 24-hour lighting is required.
- Some types of LEDs are resistant to shock, vibration, moisture, and extreme temperatures which is a crucial parameter for industrial as well as outdoor lighting. Here, selecting the right LED is key. NEMA Type 3R, 4, 4X, IP66/IP67 LEDs are suitable for harsh conditions.
- Check the incentive programs offered by your government for energy savings and retrofitting. You may be eligible for a rebate in case of meeting certain conditions.
- Choose a warm color, as LEDs are available in many colors. The bright white light is the best unless you have specific requirements.
- Ensure the retrofit kits have UL certification and are tested according to UL1598C specification.
f you plan to buy LED retrofit kits, ensure you source them from an authentic and certified manufacturer and supplier. E2 Lighting USA is a renowned manufacturer of superior-quality and environmentally-friendly indoor as well as outdoor LED lighting solutions. They offer easy to install LED retrofit kits, which are UL and DLC certified and help save energy up to about 60%.