When switching from fluorescent to LED, it is financially attractive (and very practical) for business owners to install lighting with the longest possible lifespan. Those who want to do this in a cost-efficient way opt for retrofitting fluorescent lighting with Deetronix LED retrofit modules.

Whereas fluorescent tubes generally have a life expectancy of up to 18,000 hours, Deetronix's LED retrofit modules can last up to 100,000 hours. This is possible because replacing sensitive components like the LED driver is an easy process within this product line.

In addition, adequate heat dissipation and the (optional) addition of smart light sensors can help maximise the life expectancy of light modules. All this is possible in Deetronix's unique product line, which is specifically designed to help companies and organisations make a sustainable transition to LED lighting.

Also interested in optimising the life expectancy of existing lighting? D-Lighted's lighting experts are ready to provide personal advice. Every day, we help entrepreneurs switch from fluorescent to LED in a cost-efficient manner. Read more about our modules in the brochure:

Average lifetime of LED retrofit modules

In general, LED retrofit modules last 30,000 to 50,000 hours, but the total service life can easily reach 100,000 hours for high-quality lighting modules. The modules can thus easily last many years without being replaced.

There are a number of factors that can affect the lifetime of LED retrofit modules. The build quality of the product is obviously an important factor, but how it is used also matters. Using equipment sparingly and turning it on only when needed helps enormously with extending its life expectancy.

Furthermore, the operating environment also plays a role in the maximum lifetime of LED modules. Optimal temperatures, humidity, but also a safe operating environment can contribute to maximising the lifetime of these products.

LB rating indicates quality over service life

The external auditors use the so-called LB standard for this purpose. This quality standard indicates how bright light sources still are over their entire service life. The two letters always indicate a numerical value, such as L90B10:

• L-value: How much the light output declines over its lifetime. If the service life is 100,000 hours and a light module receives an L90 rating, the light source will still retain 90% of its original light output after 100,000 hours of use. If the light source receives an L70 rating, it will still retain 70% of its original light output after 100,000 hours of use.
• B-value: The other part of the LB rating is about the percentage of LEDs that have a lower light output than the L value mentioned earlier. Thus, at an L90B10 value, 10% of all LED modules have lower than expected light output (<90% of original brightness). These should then probably be replaced sooner. It should be mentioned here that the B-value always assumes the worst-case scenario. In practice, the quality will usually be more positive.

The LB rating allows scores to be given to the quality of LED modules over their entire lifetime. Deetronix LED retrofit modules have received an L90B10 rating for at least 50,000 burning hours for the entire product line.

In other words, after using a light module for a period of 50,000 hours, 90% of the light output is retained. In 10% of cases, there is failure, or lower light output than might be expected. This is objectively seen as a very good quality score.

L90B10 value: a high quality standard

The LED retrofit modules in the Deetronix product line adhere to the highest possible quality standard and fall under the LB standard 'L90B10'. In the world of LEDs, this is one of the highest possible quality standards over the lifetime of lighting.

To this end, Deetronix LED modules have been extensively verified by independent parties. The external auditors were able to establish that the light output remains very high even after many years (at least 90% of the original light output after 50,000 burning hours).

The following reasons allow Deetronix LED modules to last longer than similar products, achieving an impressively high L90B10 rating:

1. Optimal heat dissipation: The Deetronix product line is designed with materials that can dissipate heat quickly and efficiently away from the light source. LEDs also produce heat, although many times less than fluorescent tubes. Lower heat output extends the life of the light source. In Deetronix modules, this is achieved in part by the presence of an aluminium PCB (printed circuit board), but also by the design of the housing, which is optimised for cooling.
2. Easy LED driver replacement: The weakest link of any LED is an internal component called the 'driver'. This ensures that the right amount of current is supplied to the light source. The energy in the power grid subtly fluctuates constantly, while LED needs a constant amount of current for good performance. The driver cushions the blows and therefore, of all the parts, it breaks down the fastest. Replacing this part can significantly extend the lifetime of LED modules.
3. Comprehensive tests: Modules are tested for any errors before delivery. During a aging test modules are loaded to the extreme to see if they can cope. This determines the lifetime and stability of the module's light output. During a insulation test the quality of the insulation of conductive parts is checked. The housing also receives an insulation check in this test. This guarantees quality professionally.
4. Smart sensors (optional): Addition of sensors can prevent lighting from being left on unnecessarily long. This measure mainly addresses the human factor that limits the lifetime of LED modules. Preventing excessive use can include an adjustable timer, daylight sensor, or, for example, a sensor for motion detection.

High-quality LED modules that last a long time

Those who want to get the maximum lifetime out of LED modules choose a solution that can prove quality. Independent parties confirm that Deetronix LED retrofit modules last significantly longer than average. This is indicated, among other things, by the impressive L90B10 rating. Interested in the possibilities the Deetronix product line can offer your organisation?

Then immediately download the free PDF of our brochure 'Sustainable Lighting', which can be obtained at the press of a button below: