Maximising the lifespan and performance of your LED lighting

LED lighting is well known for its long life and energy efficiency, but not all installations will automatically deliver the expected performance. To get the best return on your investment, it is important to understand what determines LED lifespan and how you can protect it.

1. Understand the L70 rating

The L70 rating is one of the most common measures of LED lifetime. It is the point at which light output has dropped to 70% of the original level and is often taken as the “end of life” for quality assessment purposes.

This figure is based on LM-80 testing, which measures lumen depreciation and colour shift over thousands of hours, and is extrapolated using TM-21 methodology to predict how long the LEDs will perform to that standard.

In the UK market, reputable suppliers will provide an L70 figure, such as “L70 50,000 hours,” meaning that after 50,000 hours, the light output is projected to remain at or above 70% of its starting level.

2. Don’t overlook the driver

While the LED chips may have an impressive L70 lifetime, the driver, which converts mains voltage into the low-voltage DC power LEDs need, is often the limiting factor. Heat, electrical surges, or poor-quality components can all shorten driver life.

Choosing a high-quality driver and ensuring it is correctly rated for the environment can significantly extend your system’s service life.

3. Keep it clean and clear

Dust, dirt, and grease build-up can reduce light output and increase operating temperature, which can shorten lifespan.

In commercial and industrial environments, regular cleaning of fittings and diffusers, following the manufacturer’s guidance, helps maintain performance.

Where possible, schedule this as part of your planned maintenance routine.

4. Monitor performance over time

Implementing a simple visual inspection schedule, for example every 6 to 12 months, helps spot early signs of discolouration, flickering, or reduced output. These can be indicators of driver fatigue, overheating, or other component failures.

For large installations, consider using smart lighting controls to monitor performance remotely. Some systems can flag issues before they become visible.

5. Follow UK safety best practice

Before carrying out any cleaning, inspection, or replacement:

• Isolate the power at the distribution board.

• Use appropriate PPE and equipment for the location, especially in high-level or industrial settings.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and, where necessary, the guidance set out by Electrical Safety First in their Best Practice Guide 9.

The bottom line

High-quality LED lighting can last well over a decade in the right conditions, but achieving that lifespan depends on good specification, proper installation, and ongoing care. By understanding ratings like L70, choosing quality components, and maintaining your fittings, you can keep your lighting at peak performance for years to come.

Book a free lighting consultation today or get in touch for more energy-efficient lighting advice and solutions:

+44 (0) 1325 467563

sarahm@tepltd.co.uk