LED tube lights are taking the market by storm, and are fast overtaking traditional fluorescent lighting as the most popular option. Being independent of weather conditions, they can be used for indoor and outdoor lighting, road lighting, spotlighting, etc. and there are a lot of LED varieties to choose from. Based on your requirements, there are a few things you need to remember for choosing the right LED light option.
In this article, we’ll provide you with some useful tips on things to consider before buying an LED tube light.
1. Consider the expense in the long run
When buying LED tube lights, the upfront cost will be more than what you would pay for traditional lighting but don’t get discouraged by this. Think of this as an investment as in the long run, you are likely to benefit economically by choosing LED lights. The lifetime cost of LED lights are much lower than traditional lights, thanks to their longevity.
2. Lighting colour temperatures
Before you go and replace your traditional lights with LED tube lights, it’s important to be well informed about the colour temperature. On average, the light range spans from 2400K to 6500K. The temperature at 6000K creates a vibrant mood enhancing blue coloured light. It is most appropriate for hospitals, art studios, and offices. The neutral appearance comes with a precise, clean and efficient look. 4000K is perfect for offices, stores, supermarkets and showrooms.
For creating a friendly, warm mood, go for 2700–3000K which enhances the red and orange tones. This is suited for your home, hotel lobbies and restaurants. Knowing which colour temperature will be suitable for you is a must before buying an LED light.
3. Brightness: check the lumens
Unlike watts when choosing incandescent lights, here the brightness is determined by lumens. An incandescent bulb that is rated 150 W is similar to 25–28 W for an LED, from this, you can see that an incandescent bulb draws 5 times the watt than the LED bulb for the same lumen.
For acquiring your desired output, it is advised first to determine your preferred brightness in lumens.
4. Non-dimmable LEDs
Traditional dimmers are used to limit the amount of electricity sent to incandescent lights for controlling the brightness of light in a room, however, when dealing with LEDs, there is no such direct relation between brightness and energy.
For using LED lights with a dimmer, you need to consider two options. First of all, you can try and find LED tube lights that are compatible with traditional dimmers. Otherwise, you can change out the previous switching system with an LED compatible dimmer switch.
5. Temperature condition
Compared to the traditional incandescent lights, the LED lights are much cooler. But, cooler doesn’t necessarily mean that no heat is produced. In reality, the little heat generated is taken by the heat sink at the bottom and dissipated into the air.
If your fixture is within an enclosed area, there will be no place for the heat to go. For such fittings, search for LED lights which can operate at a higher than average temperature.
6. Requirement for maintenance
Understanding the requirement for maintenance is important before buying any kind of light. The t8 led tube comes with the least need for maintenance. Just plug in and enjoy the light illuminating your home. If you are wondering what type of lighting solution you should pick for your commercial or industrial space, the LED tube lights are the top choice.
7. Choosing the right panel
Retrofitting is possible for LED tube lights, but it can be both time consuming and costly. Most LED panels are built following the industry standard sizes making it likely that you will find one of appropriate size. Choose the right size for your panel so it does not need any customisation and easily fits into your space. For multiple lighting solutions, you may consider going for LED battens. For indoors, the T8 led tubes are a perfect replacement for the previous T8 fluorescent lamps.
8. Disposal method
For knowing how to dispose of a component, you need to know the primary elements from which it was made. For LED lights, the electronic components are semiconductors, PCBs and diodes. So, the disposal procedure is similar to any other electronic material. However, make sure to check with your local waste management service.
9. Lifespan duration
The lifespan of LED lights is interlinked with its usage. Before buying, determine the lifetime in years and calculate if it would be appropriate for your use.
10. Compatible with smart switches
Smart houses are the future of home automation. With smart houses, one of the primary requirements is smart switches. When buying your LED tube lights make sure that they are compatible with your smart switches.
Conclusion
With so many benefits, many homes and businesses are starting to switch over to LED lights. Make sure you consider the above points before buying. If you are looking for unique lighting solutions for your home, industrial property, or any other place, take a look at the collection of LED tubes and battens available at Littil LED lights.
Featured Image by RayRhythms LED
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