When considering an LED lighting upgrade, it’s natural to gravitate toward the lowest-cost option. Studies even show that, when faced with multiple choices, people often choose the least expensive option. However, when it comes to LED lighting, choosing the cheapest proposal may lead to costly consequences, as low-quality products can compromise lighting quality, reduce efficiency, and require frequent replacements.

The LED market today is saturated with a wide range of products, and not all are created equal. Cheaper options may save you upfront, but they often come from lesser-known or unreliable manufacturers. This lack of quality control can lead to poor lighting performance and a short lifespan, ultimately costing more in replacement and maintenance over time.

1. Poor Lighting Quality: The CRI Factor

One of the key indicators of lighting quality is the Colour Rendering Index (CRI), which measures how accurately a light source represents colours compared to natural sunlight. High-quality LED products generally have a CRI of 80 or above, providing better colour fidelity and making spaces appear more vibrant and true-to-life. LEDs with lower CRI values may distort colours, giving spaces a dull or unnatural appearance.

Unfortunately, many low-cost LED products sacrifice CRI to cut costs, focusing solely on energy efficiency. These products may not display CRI values prominently, leading customers to unwittingly compromise on lighting quality. In some cases, users find the quality so poor that they revert to traditional incandescent or halogen lighting, which has a CRI of 100, despite its higher energy consumption.

Tip: Always check the CRI rating when purchasing LEDs. For most applications like offices, schools, and warehouses, a CRI above 80 is the industry standard. However, environments demanding precise colour accuracies, such as hospitals (especially surgical areas), high-complexity manufacturing facilities, art studios, and printing presses, should opt for LED products with a CRI above 90.

2. Questionable Service Life Claims

One of the biggest benefits of LED lighting is its longevity. High-quality residential LEDs often last 25,000 hours, and commercial-grade LEDs can exceed 50,000 hours. Reputable manufacturers rigorously test their products following industry standards like LM-80 and TM-21, which are used to measure and project the lifespan of LED lighting systems, to ensure they meet these lifespan claims.

However, lower-priced LEDs may skip these rigorous testing processes, and their labels may boast an inflated lifespan. In reality, these cheap LEDs might fail within months, undermining any initial savings. Frequent replacements quickly add up, making these products far more expensive over time.

Tip: Look for products from manufacturers that openly share testing standards and provide a warranty. A trusted brand’s warranty can serve as an indicator of quality and reliability.

3. Limited Warranty or Lack of Support

Reliable LED manufacturers typically offer warranties on their products, providing assurance against premature failures. Cheap LEDs, on the other hand, often come with minimal or no warranty, leaving customers to bear the replacement costs if the product doesn’t last. A warranty is more than a promise; it’s a safeguard against defective products and a sign that the manufacturer stands by their quality.

Tip: Opt for products with warranties that cover at least 5 years. This helps protect your investment and gives you peace of mind.

4. Missing Out on Government Rebates

Many businesses are eligible for government rebate programs when they upgrade to energy-efficient lighting. However, to qualify, you often need to meet certain standards or use approved products. Low-cost LED products may not meet the criteria for these rebate programs, potentially missing out on substantial savings.

Tip: Consider partnering with a provider that can guide you through rebate eligibility. By choosing quality LED products, you may be able to recoup a portion of your investment through government incentives.

Invest Wisely for Long-Term Gains

Upgrading to LED lighting is an investment, one that can yield significant energy savings and lower operational costs over time. However, not all LED products offer the same value. By choosing high-quality products from reputable manufacturers, you’ll not only enhance your space with better lighting but also reduce the likelihood of premature replacements and unexpected expenses.

In Summary:

• Choose LEDs with a high CRI (80+) for better lighting quality.
• Confirm that the manufacturer has conducted lifespan testing.
• Prioritise products with a solid warranty.
• Look into government rebates to maximise your savings.

A smart lighting choice today can bring long-term efficiency, lower costs, and better lighting quality for years to come.

Ready to upgrade your lighting? Contact The Green Guys Group or call us at 1300 511 875 to explore quality LED solutions, and let us help you maximise savings through energy-efficient lighting and available rebates. Illuminate your business sustainably—reach out today to start your energy transformation!