In recent years, a move to LED lights has been seen across a wide number of sports, at all levels of participation from community to elite. Now we are expanding on this topic by answering a question we get asked frequently: “How long do LED lights last?”.
How Long Do LED Lights Last?
LED Floodlights from a reputable manufacturer will have a lifespan of approximately 50,000 hours.
The lifespan of an LED lighting system may be limited by the product warranty, which often specifies a maximum number of burning hours per year as one of the warranty terms.
What does this mean in real-life terms?
Based on our decade-long experience in installing LED lighting systems, floodlights on a community-use full-size 3G pitch are typically used for around 600 hours per year.
With proper maintenance and best practices for usage, a high-quality LED floodlighting system can have a lifespan of 10-15 years. This lifespan can potentially be extended even further with a driver replacement.
Factors That Can Shorten the Lifespan of LED Lights
Running an LED at full power continuously generates more heat, which can ultimately reduce the lifespan of the diode. However, this can be easily mitigated with the use of a dimming system.
A dimming control system extends the lifespan of floodlights by allowing them to operate at varying levels, depending on the activity. This is especially beneficial for pitches used for both training and fixtures, as well as multi-sport playing areas.
Different sports require different light levels, and a dimming system allows floodlights to be adjusted to the appropriate level for the sport or activity taking place. This not only conserves energy but also helps in prolonging the life of the LED lights.
How to Ensure Your LED Lights Last as Long as They Should
Maintenance is key to maximizing the lifespan of your LED lights. Proactive maintenance visits allow for the identification and resolution of potential issues before they become significant problems, leading to cost savings over the lifespan of the lighting system.
Cleaning LED lights is particularly important, as dirt and other organic matter can block drainage holes. This blockage can eventually lead to water leakage, severely damaging components in the fitting.
Regular maintenance should be carried out according to manufacturer requirements and the terms of the product warranty. This ensures that your floodlighting system remains in optimal condition and performs as expected for its full lifespan.
Are LED Lights Energy Efficient?
LED lights are renowned for their energy efficiency and should not significantly decrease in efficiency over their lifespan. Manufacturers often provide estimates of potential power loss due to factors like dirt and external elements.
However, regular maintenance and cleaning, as recommended by manufacturers and contractors, can mitigate these issues and ensure that LED lights remain energy-efficient.
How Long Do LED Lights Last?
LED lights, including floodlights, typically have a long lifespan, often lasting 10-15 years with proper care. The use of a dimming system further enhances energy efficiency by adjusting light levels to suit specific activities, ensuring the lights are not always running at full power. This not only prolongs the life of the lights but also results in substantial energy cost savings over time.
Conclusion
To summarize, LED lights can be expected to last 10-15 years if used within the burning hours stated in the warranty and maintained appropriately. LED floodlights, in particular, can last up to 8 times longer than metal-halide equivalents and 25 times longer than halogen lamps, resulting in significant savings on replacement bulbs and maintenance costs.
To maximize the lifespan of your LEDs, it is essential to:
- Select the appropriate specifications for your needs.
- Utilize dimming and other lighting controls effectively.
- Choose a manufacturer with a robust warranty.
- Adhere to the provided maintenance instructions.
For more information on the Philips LED floodlights supplied and installed by BMT Lighting, check out our LED floodlights or contact us with your questions.
