How to Compare the Lifespan of LED Lights
A major benefit of LED lighting, apart from the massive energy saving, is its long lifespan.
How Long?
A high-quality LED high bay, dimmable LED batten, or floodlight has zero maintenance costs for the term of its working life, and this has major implications for maintenance planning in production facilities.
When you buy LED lighting, you need to know how long its effective life is, and this is where the L70 standard comes in.
All aspects of a building must meet the standards set by authorities, and lighting is no exception. If a workspace isn’t sufficiently lit, it could be hazardous to people. So, the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) establishes standards to promote safety and quality in the lighting industry.
An LED’s efficiency can be measured by lumen maintenance, and L70 is one of the standards set by the IES.
Here’s What the L70 Rating Means
Lumen maintenance measures the light produced by a light source when it’s brand new. The light source’s “brand new” light output is then compared with its future light output. So, a light source which emits 1,000 lumens when new and 700 lumens after 50,000 hours of use at an average ambient temperature, has a lumen maintenance of 70% at 50,000 hours.
In other words, it has an L70 of 50,000 hours. While other lumen maintenance ratings exist, L70 is now the most widely used. Why? Because the human eye generally can’t detect the difference in a light’s output until it’s down to around 70% of the original brightness.
So how many years will they last in the average warehouse or production facility?
To put it in perspective, if your L70-rated warehouse lighting is used for 10 hours a day, 5 days a week, for 50 weeks in a year, it will last 20 years; that’s 50,000 hours to decay to 70% of its brand-new brightness.
At that point, the lights may still be working, but their output is only 70% of the light they emitted when new! That’s what an L70 rating tells you.
What Are the Factors That Can Affect the Lifespan of LED Lights?
You might have already invested in a specialty high bay light or dimmable LED batten, which is a wise decision. But the lifespan of LED lights may be cut short if you don’t anticipate the following factors:
Environment and Heat Management
LEDs might overheat if the ambient temperature is unusually high or there is little airflow around the metal heat sink. Heat will also become a problem if heat sinks do not have the appropriate design (e.g., the heat sink may lack the right surface area or the gaps between its fins can’t facilitate enough airflow). Ensure optimal airflow and manage the heat around the LED.
Electronics
Due to the more complex design of LEDs, different electronic components like electrolytic capacitors need to be of reliable quality. Consider getting LEDs with ceramic capacitors, which can last much longer than those made from plastic.
LED Fitting
Compact fittings like Edison or MR16 house several electronic components in a small space, which may give rise to thermal management issues. So, carefully consider fitting type when choosing LEDs. Those with external drivers can better manage heat buildup.
Technological Advancement – You might need to Upgrading to more efficient lighting may be needed in the future as technology evolves. Although LEDs are the gold standard now, a new lighting technology could emerge.
In Summary
The L70 rating system highlights the efficiency and longevity of LEDs. Factors like heat, electronics composition, and fitting type can impact LED lifespan.
When planning a lighting upgrade or facility extension, check the L70 ratings and luminaire warranty to maximise energy efficiency and reduce maintenance needs!
It’s also important to find a lighting contractor that can provide solutions lasting over 50,000 hours for a strong return on investment.
Here at Dura Vision Lighting, that’s exactly what we do. Call us at +1300 466 088 or email us at sales@leitech.com.au to learn more about our lighting solutions.
