Despite statistical evidence there is still a reluctance to install LED lighting for all lighting solutions, typically stemming from high installation costs, thermal management and consistency of colour across different lamps. Florescent lighting is more cost-effective but issues with low outputs during run-up times and limitations on using sophisticated lighting control over short operating periods make the product less than a definitive solution.
LED lighting has many benefits, it offers an extended lamp life with little maintenance, insensitivity to vibration, little infra-red or ultra-violet radiation and the opportunity of white and coloured sources for different applications. The compact design means instant flicker-free light and the main benefit is how energy-efficient it is plus LED can be designed into virtually all lighting applications.
In commercial applications the areas of consideration are entrances, transit and amenity, individual offices, open plan offices and prestige offices each one requires a different approach but one constant – LED. LED has now surpassed the performance of flourescent lamps for little more than half their consumption. Whilst T5 solutions have become more prevalent in commercial installations for their increased performance , the issues of maintenance and dimming require consideration.
LED is also an ideal light measure for decorative light purposes due to its compact size and flexibility, LED development now provides a credible alternative to conventional light sources. The maintenance of LED’s also brings advantages, LED panels and downlights can provide up to 50,000 hours of use with virtually no maintenance. For many office environments this amounts to 10-15 years. While installations are more expensive, the benefits of energy efficiency can be realised over the short-term.
