LED light fixtures have become increasingly popular, with growing interest in their energy-saving potential, operational efficiency, and long-lasting lifespan. However, that last feature leaves many wondering how long LED light fixtures really last. In this detailed exploration of their lifespan, we aim to answer that question while going into more detail on what makes their longevity possible.
Understanding LED Fixture Lifespan
Let’s get straight to the point. Generally speaking, standard LED light fixtures can last up to 50,000 hours of usage. Of course, those numbers on their own don’t mean much. Let’s assume that an LED fixture rated at 50,000 hours operates 8 hours a day, every day of the year in your place of business.
In ideal conditions, these light fixtures could potentially last up to 17 years before needing a replacement. Anyone who uses older fixtures knows this is a considerable improvement, but 17 years isn’t a guarantee. To understand why not every light will last this long, we need to delve deeper into the nuances of LED fixture longevity.
Factors That Affect LED Fixture Longevity
Now that you know how long LED light fixtures can last, you need to know what can impact this length of time. Fortunately, not all of these factors will have a negative impact. Here are the key aspects that can either extend or reduce a fixture’s longevity.
Temperature
Even though LED light fixtures are less sensitive to fluctuating temperatures compared to traditional lighting solutions, they’re not immune to it. Extreme temperature shifts, especially high heat, can negatively influence a fixture’s performance and longevity. Ensuring optimal operating temperature through proper ventilation or heat sinks can help maintain and extend the lifespan of your LED fixtures.
Drive Current
The drive current is the electrical current supplied to an LED fixture to maintain its operation. Higher drive currents can help increase brightness but can also lead to more heat generation and faster degradation of the LED components. Keeping the drive current within the manufacturer’s specifications ensures a good balance between performance and longevity.
Quality of Components
Not all LED light fixtures are created equal. The quality of components used in the fixture plays a key role in determining the bulb’s lifespan. Opting for high-quality fixtures with reliable components is essential to ensure lasting performance and durability.
Proper Maintenance
The main thing you can do to improve longevity is perform regular maintenance. LED fixtures require minimal maintenance compared to older solutions. Regular upkeep can further ensure optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your LED fixtures. This maintenance includes periodic cleaning of fixtures, addressing any electrical or mechanical issues, and monitoring the operating environment to ensure optimum conditions.
Is It Worth the Change?
Despite the massive upside of improving the longevity of a business’s lighting, not all companies feel ready to change to LED fixtures. A lot of this comes down to the initial investment of changing all the bulbs in their current system to match up with these LED-based fixtures. Fortunately, here at Stylighting, we carry bulk light bulbs, allowing you to buy larger quantities of lights at a much lower price. Lighting up your building’s LED fixtures with quality bulbs has never been easier.