What’s the difference between ballast bypass and direct replace LED tubes and when should I consider using LED troffers?
Direct replace LED tubes, also called plug and play LED tubes, are easy to install. You simply remove the existing fluorescent tubes and pop in the new LED tubes. Other than a ladder, you don’t need any tools and do not need to hire an electrician. Sounds easy enough, so why wouldn’t everyone use them? For a few reasons:
1. Direct replace LED tubes are oftentimes more expensive than ballast bypass tubes. If you’re a homeowner and replacing two to four lamps in an existing fixture, the extra cost of the tube will likely offset the cost of hiring a professional installer. But in commercial LED lighting applications such as when you have a large building to retrofit, the scales can tip in the other direction pretty quickly.
2. Ballasts – what kind do you have? Are they electronic or magnetic? That makes a difference as you have to be sure you order a direct replace LED tube that is compatible with your existing ballast. Another factor is that ballasts consume a bit of electricity, and they wear out sooner than your new LED T8 tubes will wear out. So back up the ladder, you go to do that maintenance from time to time.
All things considered, the ballast bypass LED tubes can be more economical in the long run. Once your electrician has installed your retrofits, you’re done for 50,000 hours or more. And we can be very competitive. Building managers, contractors, larger businesses, contact us for your custom quote. Our ballast bypass LED tubes to have all the certifications including UL, LM79, LM80, FCC, RoHS and CE. Another alternative to fluorescent lighting is the LED troffer. These are ideal for new construction or for when you are completely remodelling your workspace. Sizes are 1′ x 4′, 2′ x 2′ and 2′ x 4′. In suspended ceilings, LED troffers to make for a very neat and sleek appearance. We can be very competitive with these as well as provide a short turn around time, even for larger quantities. If it’s time for you to update, give us a call at 775-841-4490 or use our call me back form. We’ll contact you during normal business hours to discuss your next project.
By: Mary Wecker
