What to look for when upgrading to LED lighting

Upgrading to LED lighting is one of the smartest ways to reduce energy use and improve lighting quality across your home or business. But not all LED lights are created equal. To get the best performance, longevity and comfort, it’s worth understanding the key factors that distinguish a quality LED product from the rest.

1. Efficiency (lumens per watt)

The efficiency of an LED is measured in lumens per watt (lm/W) – the amount of light produced for each watt of energy consumed. Higher lm/W means better efficiency and lower running costs. Modern LED fittings can achieve over 150 lm/W, providing bright, clean light while using a fraction of the energy of traditional lighting.

2. Lifetime ratings and warranties

A quality LED should last at least 50,000 hours, with many reaching 80,000 hours or more. Long lifetime ratings reduce maintenance costs and disruptions, especially in commercial or industrial environments. Always look for products that include a manufacturer-backed warranty (typically five years or more), which reflects confidence in the product’s durability and performance.

3. IP rating (ingress protection)

The IP rating indicates how well a fitting is protected against dust and moisture. For example, IP20 fittings are suitable for indoor use, while IP65 or higher is recommended for outdoor areas or environments exposed to water or dust. Choosing the correct IP rating ensures long-term reliability and safety in your installation.

4. CRI and UGR – quality of light

Two often-overlooked factors are Colour Rendering Index (CRI) and Unified Glare Rating (UGR), both of which influence how light is perceived.

CRI measures how accurately colours appear under the light compared to natural daylight. A high CRI (90+) is important in industries like healthcare, printing, and design, where colour accuracy is critical.

UGR measures glare – the lower the UGR value, the more comfortable the lighting is for the eyes. In workplaces, schools and hospitals, low-glare lighting supports comfort, productivity and wellbeing.

5. Additional functionalities

Modern LED fittings can do more than simply switch on and off. Many now incorporate occupancy sensors that automatically turn lights on when a space is in use and off when empty, as well as daylight sensors that adjust light output based on natural light levels.

These features further reduce energy consumption. Some fittings also offer colour-changing options, allowing you to create the ideal lighting environment for different tasks or times of day.

The Ecobulb difference

At Ecobulb, we’ve designed our LED products to deliver market-leading efficiency and functionality. Our lights offer superior lumens per watt, long lifetimes, robust warranties, and a range of sensor and control options to maximise energy savings. For industries that demand precise light quality, we provide high CRI and low UGR options, including battens specifically engineered to meet these requirements.

When you choose Ecobulb, you’re choosing lighting that performs better, lasts longer and enhances every environment it illuminates