What are LEDs ?
LED stands for Light Emitting Diode. Diodes are a simple form of semiconductor devices, and light is produced by the movement of electrons within the diode. In modern technology, LEDs have become popular in general and commercial lighting applications.
Are LEDs used in commercial lighting?
Yes, LEDs are used in both general and commercial lighting applications. Street lighting, security lighting, and interior lighting are just a few of the ways LEDs are used in commercial spaces. With the advantages of increased technology and availability, LEDs are becoming more popular in commercial and event lighting than ever before.
What are the advantages of using LEDs?
LEDs will last tens of thousands of hours longer than incandescent, with no filament to burn out, turning LEDs into an investment in lighting that will save money for years to come. LEDs are solid state lighting, confining electrons within the cases, and remain cool to the touch even after hours of continuous lighting
How are LEDs “Green” ?
Due to their long lifespans, LEDs need few replacements, minimizing waste. They also do not contain mercury, reducing pollution when LEDs are disposed. Their low energy draw, 80-90% less than a traditional incandescent bulb, conserves energy, making them ideal for those aware of their carbon footprint.
Are all LEDs energy efficient?
While all LEDs are more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs, not all LEDs are created equal. Green Lumens® ensures the highest in standards in energy efficiency, high quality, and cost savings are met, earning the Energy Star and UV label.
What is a lumen and how does it relate to watts?
Watts are the measurement of energy used, and a lumen refers to the brightness of a light. The higher the lumens, the brighter the lighting is.
Retrofit FAQs:
At Green Lumens®, we know that a lot of Property Owners, Managers, CFO and Sustainability Directors are trying to educate themselves about LED lighting retrofits. Here are some frequently asked questions when considering a transition to a high-efficiency LED lighting system.
What is LED Retrofitting?
LED retrofitting means to replace your existing lighting with a new and better lighting technology, preferably to increase the energy efficiency and the quality of light in the facility. Retrofitting is a term often used when converting older, outdated lighting technologies such as fluorescent, CFL and HID (metal halide) to a newer energy-efficient technology, like a LED system.
There are a lot of reasons why companies consider energy efficiency projects. Being environmentally responsible is a reward in itself, being eco-friendly enhances a company’s image by reflecting the environmental concerns of clients, vendors, employees, and the broader public.At Green Lumens®, we believe that true sustainability starts with preserving the existing fixture and eliminating the need to scrap and send the old fixtures to landfills, however, the most compelling reason to begin an energy management/efficiency project is the financial benefit. Reduced energy consumption results in reduced energy costs.
Is an energy-efficient LED retrofit financial valuable?
The answer is yes. Energy-efficient LED lighting upgrades have some of the best financial returns of any energy management technology today. A custom designed LED retrofit from Green Lumens® delivers a Pay Back Period (PBP) generally less than 24 months, depending on the legacy system being replaced.
Additionally, LED offers:
- Energy savings of up to 50 – 90%.
- Lower to Zero Maintenance Expenses.
- Reduced carbon footprint and zero hazardous waste.
- Longer lamp life, superior warranties up to 10 years.
- Improved quality of light.
- Eligibility for utility incentives, tax rebates and local incentives.
What is a Green Lumens LED retrofit kit?
A retrofit kit is an all in one system that allows for easy, quick installation of LED lighting. Generally, a retrofit kit includes brackets, sockets, wiring, screws and fasteners: most everything needed to facilitate a quick and easy install.
Where and when are retrofit kits generally used?
Retrofit kits are ideal for situations where the design and layout of the lighting system is satisfactory, but the energy efficiency of the system needs to be improved to reflect improvements in lighting technology. Kits are especially useful in commercial (office buildings, learning institutions, retail establishments, etc.) and industrial environments (manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, etc.).
Why should I consider a retrofit kit instead of a redesign?
If satisfied with the layout of existing fixtures, retrofitting is much more cost effective than a full lighting redesign, which could involve replacing fixtures and other components. Many customers who choose to retrofit often realize a savings of 50 -75% compared to the expense of a complete redesign. It is also much less disruptive to business operations; in most cases retrofits can be installed while the existing fixtures remain in place.
Can LED and retrofits be installed in new construction?
Yes, LEDs are perfect for new construction or new spaces within existing buildings, as well as for major renovations of existing facilities where energy efficiency lighting improvements are needed.
Do LEDs provide non-disruptive repair and replacement?
Yes. Rarely does a LED lamp fail, but when they do, replacement is non-disruptive and generally covered by warranty.Green Lumens® recommends that the failed LED be replaced promptly and then brought back into use so proper lighting is restored. Also, Green Lumens® customer service plans include an on-site spare strategy, and fast shipping of replacement lamps.
Why change at all?
Most commercial lighting systems today utilize outdated, inefficient old technology lighting (such as T12, T8 and T5 fluorescent bulbs, HID, etc.). These old technology systems produce poor light and are very wasteful, in terms of energy consumption and maintenance expense. In addition, mandates from the U.S. Department of Energy have already prohibited the manufacture of certain inefficient lighting options. These old technology systems are also hard on the environment, driving up greenhouse gasses (CO2) and hazardous waste (mercury, etc.). Leaving these systems in place is simply wasting money.
How difficult is it to install a retrofit?
A retrofit install is generally very simple. The complete process involves removing the existing blubs, ballast, sockets, and brackets, then replacing them with LED lamps and a wiring harness. Minimal wiring alterations are required and Green Lumens® has a national network of licensed electrician familiar with the local code and safety requirements of electrical wiring. Retrofitting can be done in waves, in off-hours, even on weekends so work or business operations are not hampered.