The time to convert your metal halide highbays to LED UFOs is here. Apart from being ahead of the game when it comes to the new LED lighting standards, the exercise will prove both energy and cost-saving long into the future, and the imminent non-availability of metal halides won’t trip you up.
Here we unpack some of the main benefits:
- Energy Efficiency:
LEDs are considerably more efficient than metal halides when it comes to watts input versus lumen output. A typical 400 W metal halide highbay can be replaced by a 150W LED UFO, leading to up to 60-70% energy savings.
You will consume significantly less energy with LEDs, especially with respect to large commercial or industrial settings.
- Longer Lifespan:
LEDs have a much longer lifespan, often lasting 50,000 hours or more, compared to metal halides that typically last 6,000-15,000 hours. This translates to fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs.
- Better Light Quality:
LEDs offer instant-on, flicker-free lighting, whereas metal halide lamps require warm-up time and can flicker as they age.
Higher CRI (Colour Rendering Index): LED UFO lights typically have a higher CRI, providing clearer, more natural lighting that enhances visibility and safety in workspaces.
- Reduced Heat Output:
Metal halides emit a significant amount of heat, which can increase cooling costs in temperature-sensitive environments. LEDs run much cooler, reducing the load on HVAC systems.
- Dimmability & Controls:
Dimming options and compatibility with smart lighting controls are common with LED systems, offering greater flexibility for energy savings and lighting customisation.
- Environmental Benefits:
LEDs do not contain hazardous materials such as the mercury found in metal halide lamps, making them far more environmentally friendly and easier to dispose of at the end of life.
Some of the more common questions we get from electricians looking to make the switch from metal halide to LED highbays:
Will I need to rewire the existing fixtures?
In many cases, a simple retrofit can be done without rewiring. However, some applications may require new ballasts or drivers for optimal performance.
How do I choose the correct wattage for LED replacements?
Select your LED UFO replacements according to their lumen output, and then by default the wattage requirement will be significantly lower than the metal halide highbays. As a gauge, a 400 W metal halide can be replaced by a 100-150 W LED UFO, for example. Check the LED fitting for compatibility with any existing control systems.
How will the light distribution compare to metal halide fixtures?
LED UFO highbays provide a more uniform light distribution. Unlike metal halide lamps, which can lose brightness over time and create uneven lighting, LEDs maintain consistent light levels throughout their lifespan.
All in all, those switching to LEDs for their factory, school or hospital lighting can expect to enjoy infinitely better quality light, consistently, and more efficiently.