When choosing the best LED lighting, there are various factors to consider. How to care for and maintain your LED lights is an important element in ensuring their longevity. LED lights have an expected lifespan of 50,000 hours of active use. However, this can only be achieved if they are cared for properly. Luckily, there are plenty of ways in which you can keep your LED lighting working optimally for longer.

In this guide, we discuss why it’s important to care for your LED lights and how you can maintain them to ensure their longevity and safe operation.

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Why it's important to care for your LEDs

Maintenance helps you save money

Part of your business's success depends on how well you can keep costs minimal. Therefore, you need your LED lights working at their best. Additionally, with proper maintenance, there'll be no need for replacements.

LED modules may not burn out like incandescent bulbs, but you'll notice a drop in the diode's brightness if they are not properly maintained. Dirt and other debris collecting on the lights will also reduce their brightness and increase the chances of damage.

Prolonging the light’s lifespan

The 50,000-hour lifespan rating is conservative, accounting for general wear and tear and average operational conditions. With excellent LED drivers and proper maintenance, that figure can reach close to 100,000 hours. Regular maintenance may seem pointless, but imagine what it would mean for your business to keep your LED lights operational for longer.

If you want LED lighting that lasts for hours, check out our LED modules.

Maintenance is critical for safety and security

LED signage, security lights and other safety lighting cease to function properly without regular maintenance. The diodes can lose up to 50% of their brightness, which reduces the effectiveness of the lights. Proper maintenance not only saves on the cost of replacements, but it's also necessary for safety in a building. Besides dimming lights, maintenance ensures no section of the building misses light due to a malfunctioning diode in the chain.

Our 264w LED drivers, responsible for self-contained supply, are renowned for their long-term safety. Also, Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) wires are perfect for areas where smoke and toxic fumes may cause a threat to life and equipment.

Ensuring you have taken all necessary precautions

Should any section of your premises miss lighting, you'll be held accountable as the party responsible for fitting lights. In the event of criminal activity or an accident, those involved will question your company's reputation and sense of responsibility. Regular care and maintenance work indicate your company's dedication to the proper working of the LED lighting system.

How do I prevent damage to an LED lighting system?

Choose the right LED lights for a given space

There are many types of LED lights suitable for different places and occasions. The world of LED lighting is still new, with constant additions to the list. For example, if you need to invest in LED outdoor lighting, you need to focus your search on this specific category. Alternatively, you can reach out to an expert with your expectations and let them help you choose appropriately.

Fairground LED lights such as golf ball kits are perfect for large signs placed outside. However, LED lights are not inherently waterproof and require adequate weatherproofing to ensure their longevity outdoors.

Think long term

While LED lights will last a long time, you need to know if they'll need accessories and maintenance parts. Before investing in an entire system, find out how long it will be relevant. Check what ongoing support the company offers, as well as product warranties and guarantees.

Install the LED lights properly

After choosing the right LED lights for a given space, you need to install them correctly. For example, if you opted for hanging LED bulbs such as festoon lighting, double-check the hanging length. Placing bulbs too close to furniture, ceiling fans or head-height can be dangerous.

Avoid cramming diodes into a small recess for recessed fixtures—if necessary, widen the cutout to properly fit the bulb. Consider installing a protective glass or plastic cover for outdoor lighting to keep moisture and dirt away from the LEDs.

Also consider the operating environment of your LED lights. Ideally, position them in a cool area away from direct sunlight. Although LEDs produce minimal heat compared to incandescent bulbs, excessive heat can still shorten their lifespan and reduce their brightness.

How do I clean LED light fixtures?

Before cleaning LED fixtures, always turn them off. Touching a live fixture may result in electric shock. Once powered off, use a soft brush or a lightly damp cloth (never sopping wet) to remove dust. In some cases, a mild, non-abrasive cleaner can be used—but avoid harsh chemicals that could damage lenses or seals.

How do I maintain my LED light fixtures?

The location of each fixture is crucial. Ceiling-mounted and high-bay LEDs might only need occasional dusting. But if you leave them unmaintained for too long, you may need a mild stain remover. Don’t forget to clean the surrounding housing and any support brackets.

At WeLoveLEDs, we understand how to choose, install and maintain LED lights for residential and commercial premises. Our online store has all types of LED lighting to meet and exceed your needs. Get in touch with us today.