How do HID lights work?
High-intensity discharge (HID) bulbs and lamps work by passing an electric discharge between two electrodes in a capsule of ionized gas. HID lights are identified by the metal gas they use, for instance metal halide, sodium, and mercury. HID lights require a ballast to regulate the voltage. This gas-discharge method has been in use for over three centuries but has now been made obsolete by newer, much more energy efficient LED lighting technology.
Where are HID lights used?
HID lighting is primarily used in commercial and industrial applications that require mass amounts of light. HID lamps and bulbs are commonly found in warehouse lighting, streetlighting, stadium lighting, large commercial spaces, and agricultural grow lighting.
How do LED lights work?
Light-emitting diode (LED) lights are diodes designed to emit light when connected in a circuit. Electricity is regulated by a semi-conductor chip and converted into electromagnetic radiation, which produces light. Each individual LED functions as a miniature “bulb”. Invented in the 20th century, they have been used as a general lighting source since the mid-2000s. LED lighting has quickly proven the new “benchmark” for superior, energy-efficient lighting, proving all other forms of lighting to be antiquated.
What advantages does an HID to LED retrofit provide?
LED lighting is (by far) the most efficient means of lighting from an energy savings and total cost of ownership perspective. LED lights are less costly, offer vastly longer lifespans, and undergo MUCH less lumen depreciation than all other existing HID lighting technologies. LED Lighting is much more durable… LEDs do NOT have a filament that can break (like traditional HID Lamps). Additionally, by providing directional illumination, LED lights waste no light and can deliver more achieved light per watt to whatever surface they are being used to illuminate. As a result, LED lighting provides superior light distribution and the most precise lighting capabilities as far as shape, aim, and intensity. HID lights also require a period of warm up to produce full light output and thus are not suited for applications in which lights need to be turned on and off. LED lights are “instant-on”, with zero warm up time. LED technology offers more choices of lighting hues and aesthetics & provide brighter illumination.
Apogee LED, LLC provides retrofit kits and services to EASILY convert your current HID lighting to affordable, energy-efficient LED lighting. Start saving money today! Ask Apogee LED, LLC about DLC, Energy Star, and other rebate and incentive programs available for your industrial and commercial LED installation.