How to Retrofit Your Current Lighting System with LED Lighting

LED lighting is transforming the industry, now making up over 60% of lights in commercial buildings. It offers significant energy savings and reduced costs. Upgrading to LEDs, also known as an LED lighting retrofit, is a smart choice for homeowners and businesses alike.

This switch leads to lower power consumption, longer-lasting bulbs, and reduced maintenance expenses. Whether for business or home, making the transition to LED can save you money and help the environment.

Let Big Easy Lighting help you find the ideal lighting setup for your needs. Contact us today to explore your options and start saving.

Why Retrofit to LED?

Upgrading to an LED lighting system offers many benefits, both economically and environmentally.

Energy Savings

LED retrofits reduce energy consumption significantly. LEDs use 75% less energy than traditional lighting, providing considerable savings for homes and businesses. Reports show that switching to LED lights can save an average household around $225 annually in energy costs.

Cost-Effectiveness

While LED retrofit kits may have higher upfront costs, they prove to be worthwhile over time. Their long lifespan and reduced electricity bills make them a sound investment. Both commercial and residential spaces often see a full return on investment within a few years.

• Long lifespan: LEDs last much longer than traditional bulbs, reducing replacement costs.
• Reduced maintenance: With fewer replacements, maintenance costs drop significantly.
• Energy-efficient: LEDs consume less power, leading to lower electricity bills.

Environmental Impact

Switching to LED lights benefits the environment as well. LEDs consume less energy and don’t contain harmful substances like mercury. Their extended lifespan means less waste, making them an eco-friendly option for lighting upgrades.

Improved Lighting Quality

LEDs provide bright, clear light and come in a range of colors to suit different environments. Whether you prefer modern cool tones or warm, cozy lighting, LEDs can enhance the look and feel of any space, from offices to living rooms.

Assessing Your Current Lighting System

Effective lighting is essential in creating a comfortable and functional environment, whether at home or in a commercial setting. Evaluating your current lighting setup ensures it meets your needs, enhances the aesthetics, and promotes productivity.

Evaluate Fixtures

Start by examining your existing fixtures for LED compatibility. Some fixtures, such as recessed or outdoor lighting, may require specific retrofit approaches. While some systems only need a bulb replacement, others may need a complete fixture upgrade to accommodate LEDs. This evaluation ensures a smooth transition to an LED system.

Lighting Goals

Next, consider what you aim to achieve with the retrofit. Are you focused on energy savings, improved lighting quality, or adding dimming features? Businesses often prioritize efficiency and productivity, while homeowners may focus more on ambiance and mood. Defining your goals will make the retrofitting process more effective.

• Energy savings: Reduce electricity consumption and lower energy bills.
• Improved ambiance: Create a cozy or professional atmosphere.
• Dimming features: Adjust lighting levels to fit various needs.

Identify Areas

Create a checklist of areas that need upgrading. Kitchens, offices, and retail spaces can all benefit from improved LED lighting. Don’t forget about outdoor areas, like parking lots, which require high levels of lighting. LEDs can meet these demands while providing a sustainable solution.

Types of LED Retrofit Options

Several options are available when retrofitting to LED technology, each designed to improve energy efficiency and lighting quality in existing fixtures.

1. Direct Replacement

One of the easiest retrofit options is direct replacement. You can simply switch old bulbs for LED equivalents, especially in cases where screw-in or plug-in bulbs are used. This approach allows homes and businesses to keep their existing fixtures while enjoying reduced energy consumption.

2. Ballast-Bypass Retrofit

For lighting systems that use ballasts, a ballast-bypass retrofit might be necessary. This process involves bypassing or removing the ballast to accommodate LED bulbs. It’s a more technical upgrade but is often required in older systems where traditional lighting relied on ballasts.

3. LED Retrofit Kits

In some cases, you may need to upgrade an entire fixture to support LED technology. LED retrofit kits allow for converting older fixtures to be LED-compatible. These kits might require some adjustments to the fixture’s wiring or hardware. If this seems challenging, hiring a professional like Big Easy Lighting can make sure the job is done right.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

Choosing between a professional installation and a DIY approach depends on the complexity of your project, your budget, and your preferences. Professionals bring expertise and efficiency, while simpler projects can often be managed on your own.

When to Call a Professional

For more complex retrofitting, like ballast-bypass installations or large-scale projects, it’s best to rely on professional help. Commercial spaces and homes with intricate lighting systems often benefit from expert handling to ensure everything is done safely and efficiently.

• Ballast-bypass retrofits: Involve more complex wiring and may need professional expertise.
• Large-scale commercial projects: Benefit from experienced professionals to avoid issues.
• Intricate home lighting systems: Often require expert handling for smooth installation.

DIY Considerations

For those leaning towards DIY, certain projects are more manageable, such as replacing bulbs or installing simple retrofit kits. However, it’s essential to understand the process fully before starting.

Here’s a quick checklist for DIYers:

• Know your existing system
• Select the right LED retrofit kits
• Carefully follow manufacturer instructions

Safety should always come first. If you feel unsure at any stage, it’s wise to consult with professionals.

Step-by-Step Guide to Retrofitting

This guide offers clear steps to help you update your lighting system smoothly and effectively.

• Choosing Bulbs: Selecting the right LED bulbs is crucial. Make sure they match the wattage, brightness, and color of your existing fixtures. Online tools and resources can help you compare LED options to find the best fit.
• Calculating LEDs: To figure out how many LEDs you need, measure the size of your space and decide how much brightness is necessary. This step helps you avoid purchasing too many or too few bulbs, saving both money and energy.
• Prepping Fixtures: Before installing LEDs, turn off the power at the circuit breaker and safely remove the old bulbs. Preparing your fixtures by cleaning or adjusting them will help ensure a safe and smooth installation process.
• Installation Process: Depending on your setup, installation could be as simple as replacing a bulb or more complex, such as bypassing a ballast. If you’re comfortable with DIY, follow the instructions provided.

For more complicated setups, it’s a good idea to hire a professional to make sure everything is installed safely and correctly.

Ready to Retrofit? Contact Big Easy Lighting Now!

Now that you know the steps, it’s time to assess your current lighting system and choose the right LED retrofit option for your space. Whether you decide to tackle it yourself or hire a professional, upgrading to LED lighting is a smart choice that will benefit you for years to come.

Call Big Easy Lighting today and let us help you light up your future.