How to convert a fluorescent light fixture to LED

The advent of LED lamps has displaced a significant number of other lighting fixtures. Even the popular fluorescent tubes are gradually giving up their positions. LEDs have a lot of advantages, encouraging users to replace them as soon as possible.

Can you replace a fluorescent fixture with an LED

A fluorescent fixture can indeed be replaced with a similar wattage LED fixture. This does not require any special skills or tools for the user.

Using LEDs instead of fluorescent lamps (LL) lamps have a major benefit. Energy consumption is reduced, better stability is provided, and there are no harmful effects of fluorescent circuits.

How to choose the right LED bulbs

Choosing a LED lamp, you need to consider the purpose, design and type of socket. It is better to pay attention to the products of famous manufacturers Armstrong, Maxus, Philips, etc.

Types of socket

According to the purpose there are the following types:

1. Domestic. They are used in administrative or warehouse premises.
2. Designers'. Presented by functional ribbons and used to create spectacular illumination.
3. Outdoor. Illuminate roads, pedestrian zones and adjacent areas.
4. Spotlight.
5. Decorative. Compact models for installation into small luminaires.

Types of bases

Types of construction:

1. Traditional. Devices with conventional bases.
2. Directional. Installed in spotlights and streetlights.
3. Linear. Replaces the usual cylindrical fluorescent elements.
4. With lenses. Mounted in incandescent devices.

Diode lights are made on a linear system.

The bases on the devices can be any. This parameter practically does not differ from the same in other lighting fixtures. Connection to the socket is possible with standard threads or pins (for example, G13).

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Instructions for replacing fluorescent tubes

Replacing fluorescent tubes with LEDs consists of steps:

1. The current supply to the device is turned off. Verify the effectiveness of the action by using an indicator screwdriver.
2. The cover is removed from the luminaire.
3. The capacitor, starter and choke. Sometimes the control gear (ECG) can be combined.
4. Separate the wires connected to the cartridge and connect them to the neutral and phase cables.
5. The remaining wiring is removed or insulated.
6. Connect the tube to the appropriate wires.

The procedure is Replacement lighting equipment

A feature of fluorescent daylight lamps is an even distribution of light in all directions. LEDs, on the other hand, stand out for their directional glow and require some adjustment. It is best to use rotary bases, which allow you to direct the light in the desired direction.

Diagram of LED bulbs replacement

Diagram of LED lamp connection

The devices consist of several main components:

• printed circuit board with diodes;
• power supply;
• plinth;
• plafond;
• housing.

Design of a linear LED lamp

The presence of an integrated power supply allows the device to connect directly to a network of 220 volts without any additional equipment.

Therefore, connection diagram has a very simple form, as shown in the figure below.

LL connection diagram

LED strip can be used instead of an ordinary lamp. Installation in this case is done in the same way. However, the strips do not contain a built-in power supply, so it must be connected to the circuit separately.

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Pros and cons of the replacement

Redesigning the luminaire for LED lamp instead of fluorescent has features that are better to consider at the stage of preparation.

The advantages include:

1. The remodeling process takes a minimum of time.
2. LED lamps do not require maintenance. It is enough to clean the plafond from dust from time to time and occasionally replace the tubes.
3. Compared to fluorescent lamps, LEDs consume 60% less electricity. Impressive savings that will quickly pay for the cost of the device.
4. LEDs are characterized by an increased service life, which can reach 40,000 hours.
5. When using LED tubes, there is no unpleasant flickering or pulsations that have a negative impact on the eyesight. This is especially important when organizing lighting in schools.
6. There are no harmful substances inside the LED lamp and it does not require disposal after breakage. The device is absolutely safe for humans and the environment.
7. Even with significant voltage drops in the network (up to 110 V), the lamp will continue to function as at 220 V.
8. A wide range of color temperatures is available, making it easy to create the right lighting.

The most obvious advantage is the energy savings

It is worth considering the disadvantages of LEDs:

1. Compared with other lamps the most expensive.
2. Over time, the luminous flux characteristics of LEDs decrease due to the degradation of the crystals.
3. LED lights work narrowly, which is not always convenient. Instead of one fluorescent, you may need several LED fixtures.
4. The color temperature is not always at the right level. Often the light is not enough for comfort.
5. LEDs heat up quite a lot when in operation. The design of the lamp must have a heat dissipation radiator, which not only complicates the design, but also affects the price.

Recommended reading: What is better - LED or energy-saving lamp

Almost all of the above disadvantages can be mitigated by using a quality circuit. To remake the lamp for LED lamps is still recommended, because the benefits of such a solution will be more.