A recent article, Guidelines for Converting LED to LED: What Turnkey Lighting Contractors Need to Know, by George McIntyre, addresses the emerging need for second-generation LED retrofits in commercial and industrial buildings. As many first-generation LED systems installed between 2015 and 2020 begin to show signs of decline, lighting contractors should approach LED-to-LED conversions to maximize value for their clients.
The initial wave of LED upgrades brought significant energy savings and reduced maintenance compared to legacy lighting technologies. However, many building owners and facility managers now face a false sense of security, having been sold on the “long-life” promise of LEDs. While LED chips themselves can last over 100,000 hours, the limiting factor is often the driver, which typically lasts 50,000 to 60,000 hours. In facilities with extended operating hours, this threshold is reached in as little as five to eight years, resulting in performance issues like flickering, inconsistent dimming, and communication failures with controls.
LED fixtures naturally depreciate in light output over time. Many early systems are now operating at only 70-80% of their original light levels, which can lead to underlit spaces that may not meet safety, productivity, or code compliance requirements. Evolving energy codes and the availability of more efficient lighting designs further justify the need for strategic second-generation retrofits.
Key Guidelines for Contractors:
Contractors are advised to look beyond a simple one-to-one fixture replacement. Instead, they should evaluate the current light levels compared to the original design, changes in space usage, occupant feedback, environmental conditions, and any updates to codes or corporate sustainability goals. This comprehensive assessment may reveal opportunities to adjust output, improve distribution, or rezone control systems for better performance.
Energy savings should not come at the expense of lighting quality. When planning LED-to-LED retrofits, contractors should pay attention to:
Color Rendering Index (CRI): Ensuring accurate color rendering, especially in applications like healthcare, retail, and printing.
Color Temperature: Selecting tones that support the intended mood and function of the space.
Uniformity and Glare Control: Using optics or new fixture types to reduce shadows and discomfort.
Flicker: Prioritizing low-flicker drivers, particularly in environments like offices, retail, or healthcare.
Lighting quality directly impacts occupant satisfaction and productivity, making it a critical consideration.
Many first-generation LED systems lack advanced controls. Today’s technology offers a range of options, including occupancy and daylight sensors, zoning and scheduling, integration with building management systems, and wireless platforms. Upgrading controls during a retrofit can deliver additional energy savings, improve user experience, and future-proof the facility as codes and technology evolve. Advanced IoT-enabled controls can also offer benefits like real-time location services, wayfinding, and process optimization.
A key role for contractors is to educate clients about the realities of LED system aging, the risks of performance decline, and the benefits of timely retrofits. Using light meter readings, performance benchmarks, and energy modeling, contractors can demonstrate where improvements are needed and how new technology aligns with sustainability and compliance goals. This consultative approach builds trust and positions the contractor as a long-term partner rather than a transactional vendor.
LED-to-LED retrofits should be seen as a strategic opportunity rather than a routine replacement. Contractors who adopt a holistic approach—balancing energy efficiency, lighting quality, maintenance, and user experience—will differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Revisiting past clients for second-generation upgrades allows contractors to showcase thought leadership and deliver measurable value, strengthening client relationships and opening new business avenues. By following these guidelines, contractors can help clients realize the full potential of modern lighting while building a reputation for forward-thinking solutions.
Read the full Acuity Brands article here.
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