LED downlights can last from 30,000 hours to 50,000 hours. If you compare it with a halogen downlight, which can only live from one to two years, it’s an undeniable fact that an LED downlight can easily outlast many (if not all) traditional lighting solutions!
While LED downlights, whether dimmable LED spotlights or standard fixed LED downlights, are guaranteed to last, several factors can affect the actual time you spend with them. In the next section, we will discuss how you can extend the lifespan of your LED downlight and ensure that it does not expire way before its promised time!
Here are the durations that you can expect depending on the scenarios:
- 50,000 hours for straight use (no resting)
- More than 50,000 hours when used with a dimmer switch
- More than 50,000 hours when installed correctly
Shedding Light on the Longevity of LED Downlights
While LED downlights are guaranteed to last, there’s nothing wrong with taking extra care to ensure that they do. Various aspects can affect their longevity, so you need to take all of those into consideration.
Here are some practical ways that will make sure your LED downlights will live long:
- Clean the area of installation
- Install the LED downlight correctly
- Avoid rapid cycling
- Ensure the use of the correct voltage
- Pay more attention to its operating hours
- Use Compatible Dimmers
- Guarantee Optimal Operating Temperature
So, with that being said, let’s dive into each one by one!
Clean the Area of Installation
Whether dimmable LED spotlights or standard fixed LED downlights, LED downlights require an excellent maintenance cycle. What are we talking about when we say that? Will it not be the opposite of the claim that it’s low maintenance?
Low maintenance does not equate to no maintenance. Therefore, you still have to clean your LED downlights. This does not mean you must do it every day or every week. You can clean your lights once or twice a month. However, ensure that you are doing it correctly. Don’t use harsh chemicals when wiping the fixtures. A soft, damp cloth with water will do. It’s enough to remove the build-up of dust and dirt without damaging the finish/coating of the downlight.
Also, check for any loose connections and possible issues during your monthly maintenance. Then, address them immediately to prevent further escalation.
Install the LED Downlight Correctly
To avoid any risks and potential damage to your LED downlights, ensure that you mount them correctly. Go through the instruction manual and read the technical specifications before proceeding. Different models will have various requirements, so to be safe, it’s best to still read the safety guidelines of the model you currently have.
Say you need to get more familiar with lighting installations. If that’s the case, you have to be either supervised by an acquaintance who is knowledgeable about electricals or have a professional do it for you. That way, you’re confident that your lights are correctly installed. Also, this ensures that you, your home, and your LED downlights are free from any risks and possible malfunctions!
Avoid Rapid Cycling
Why do you think people tell you to stop when you rapidly switch on and off your lights as if it’s doing a strobe light effect? Well, the rapid cycling of your LED downlights can decrease its lifespan. So, try to minimise the constant switching on and off, especially in areas where the downlight is used for short periods.
We suggest that you consider automated operation or occupancy sensors. This will prevent rapid cycling and optimise the LED downlight usage patterns.
Ensure the Use of the Correct Voltage
In order to ensure correct installation, you have to guarantee that your LED downlights are being powered with the proper voltage. Typically, LED downlights are mains-powered. Therefore, you don’t need an LED driver or transformer to make them work. However, you may stumble across a downlight that’s not mains-powered. So, to avoid any installation issues or wrong connections, check the manufacturer’s recommendation, and please don’t push your LED downlights beyond their capacity.
Pay More Attention to its Operating Hours
While you can use your LED downlights for extended hours (24 hours or more), doing so can accelerate their wear and tear. We recommend using your lights for eight to ten hours on regular days. An LED downlight can live for five to twenty years, depending on the hours you use it and its average lifespan. So, being mindful of how long your lights are switched on can help prolong its service in your space!
Use Compatible Dimmers
If you’re transitioning from using a halogen downlight to an LED downlight, you also need to switch your wall dimmers if you decide to operate your lights using one. Why so?
Dimmable LED spotlights/downlights may work with your existing dimmer switch if it’s LED compatible. However, more often than not, a dimmer switch used with traditional fixtures does not work with LEDs. With the wrong dimmer, the LED downlights will not dim, or they may flicker and buzz when being dimmed. Also, it can cause erratic behaviour in your lights and, worse, potential damage to the LED downlight.
You can consult your supplier or the manufacturer directly to know their recommended dimmer switch for the specific LED downlight!
Guarantee Optimal Operating Temperature
There’s a distinct range where your LED downlights can operate optimally. So, to ensure that yours are, check the packaging or installation manual of your fixtures. Avoid exposing them to intense cold or heat, as it can impact their longevity and efficiency.
In addition, we’re encouraging you to invest in LED downlights with top-grade cooling systems and heat sinks. A well-built heat dissipation mechanism can thwart overheating, preserving the durability of an LED downlight!
Common Mistakes that Affect the Longevity of an LED Downlight
What are the possible oversights that you should watch out for?
Disregarding Environmental Factors
LED downlights can function well and provide you with excellent service as long as the conditions are right. If you fail to consider factors like humidity levels, room temperature, and exposure to external elements, it can shorten the lifespan of your lights. So, be aware of the environment where you intend to install your lights and look at its specifications.
Overlooking the Manufacturers Guidelines
The manufacturer’s guidelines help you optimise the usage of your LED downlights. Typically, it contains dimmer and control compatibility, prescribed operating conditions, and other information that affects the performance and lifespan of the fitting. Completely disregarding its warnings and provisions is like going into war blind!
Poor Installation
The quality of the mounting process can impact the overall health of your LED downlights. The placements, wirings, electrical connection, heat dissipation, and more can compromise the integrity of your fixtures when done incorrectly. So, while you can DIY, it’s ideal to call for professionals in the field. Would it not feel like a waste if you cannot fully unlock the potential of your LED downlights?
Conclusion
LED downlights have a notably longer lifespan compared to traditional lighting fixtures. Technically, they are equipped to last for years. However, you also have a part to play in ensuring that they do. So, don’t forget to clean your lights, install them correctly, use compatible lighting accessories, and operate in optimal conditions. Aside from that, address the pitfalls early in your installation, and don’t sidestep any!
If you’re looking for top-quality LED downlights, visit our website, SimpleLighting! We have an extensive collection featuring dimmable LED downlights, fire-rated LED downlights, bathroom LED downlights and more!
