Why Should You Retrofit Lights?

Retrofitting is a crucial part of lighting maintenance if you have an older system or are using a system that you got a few years ago. What does it mean to retrofit lights and how do you know if you should do it? The experts at Houston Lightscapes go over the basics. 

What is Retrofit?

LED retrofitting has to do with updating your current system from halogen bulbs to LED bulbs. By adding a new component (bulbs and fixtures), you are updating the system to a new, modern version that is easier to maintain. Halogen lights tend to tarnish over time and are affected by heat and the weather, making LED lighting the preferred option. There are different types of fixtures for landscape lighting – interchangeable and integrated. Which fixture you have determines how professionals retrofit lights and whether it will be a simple job or an expensive job. 

• Interchangeable: These lighting fixtures have replaceable parts, making it easy to switch out broken elements, such as bulbs, for new ones. These fixtures are much easier to maintain and can last a longer period of time because the broken elements can be swapped out easily. This option is much cheaper as well because you only have to swap out bulbs or a part rather than replace the whole fixture.
  
• Integrated: These fixtures have the bulb built into it. This means if something breaks or if you want to update light fixtures, you have to replace the whole fixture. Not only is this inconvenient, but it’s also expensive. 

Why Should You Retrofit Lights?

There are many reasons to update light fixtures from halogen to LED. There are a myriad of benefits that homeowners and business owners alike can use to improve their property. 

Halogen lighting is losing traction in the lighting industry, and has fallen far behind the modern advances of LED lighting. There are many disadvantages to halogen systems which is why retrofitting is so important. Halogen lighting isn’t as safe as alternatives. Halogen lights heat up very quickly and are very combustible. This makes them hot to the touch and difficult to handle. It also increases heat related risks and fire hazards. Halogen lighting is also more difficult to keep clean. The lights cling onto natural oils from the hand making them get dirtier quicker and more challenging to keep clean over time. 

LED lighting is much better quality. There is a broader range in color temperature for LEDs and the fixtures are easier to take care of, meaning they’ll last longer over time. LEDs can last over 50,000 hours before there is a noticeable decline in light emission. Because of their long lifespan, the lights will need maintenance less regularly, saving you money in the long run.  LEDs can also save you money on your energy bill. 
When you retrofit lights from halogen to LED, you’re saving time, money and creating a system that will withstand the test of time. If you live in Houston or surrounding areas, our team of experienced professionals will retrofit your current system or help with maintenance. You can set up a free consultation here.