Deciding to go in for energy-efficient solutions in large projects needs the consideration of multiple factors. One of the primary factors to consider is whether you are looking at achieving energy efficiencies for a longer period or is a short-term solution that you are seeking. The goal usually is to achieve optimal results, be it life-long or short-term. LED or Light Emitting Diodes have proved to be one of the most effective innovations in recent times. These are energy-efficient, kind to the environment, have a long lifespan, do not emit heat or UV rays, can be designed flexibly, and have climate-friendly operation metrics. But, do all LEDs pass on these benefits to end customers? What happens when companies go in for below-average LED products assuming that they are making the best investment?
Picking the cheapest LED products without ensuring the quality or performance can be a big mistake for companies looking to increase their energy efficiency. There are reasons why they do so, ranging from no know-how about energy-efficient solutions to cost-cutting. It could be due to impromptu expenses that as not planned. Most of these companies do not consider that the concept of one-size-fits-all no longer works, especially with modern technology. Going in for low-priced solutions often means compromising with quality and results – such solutions can positively impact the ROI in the short term, but over a long time, the impact could be disastrous. The obvious way out is to go in for solutions that are above standard, and this can only when companies make informed decisions.
What factors should the corporate sector consider when choosing energy-efficient products?
To avoid choosing sub-standard LED solutions, companies should focus on the following factors:
- Tested and approved LED systems
The first criterion for picking the most effective LED solution is to go in for independently tested systems and be approved by standard organizations like Design Lights Consortium (DLC) or the Energy Star. DLC that started in 2011 has a proud track record of achieving 70% average efficacy in solid-state lighting solutions. DLC is an organization that is committed to establishing LED controls to connect smarter cities and buildings for zero carbon emissions. On the other hand, Energy Star is a certification company that helps save energy while ensuring optimal comfort and reduced emissions. Both these organizations independently evaluate product performance to ensure top and long-standing performance.
- Always opting for high-efficiency LED fixtures
There are two choices of LED solutions – one is the Standard LED lighting systems, and the other is high-efficiency systems. To understand the differentiation between both the systems is lumens per Watt metrics. A higher lumen per watt means that the fixture can offer similar lighting or lumens at lower watts, or such devices consume lower watts to provide good-quality lighting. Higher-efficiency LED systems are expensive, but the system proves to be a cost-effective investment over a duration. How is it so? While the upfront cost of a standard efficient LED solution is comparatively lower, the performance may not be up to the mark for too long, and you would need to go in for the replacement of the system is very soon. It means higher experiences with regular replacement. Not just that, the savings on energy that can be achieved with a high-efficiency system cannot be achieved with a standard solution – hence, businesses lose the opportunity for additional savings.
- Choose lighting upgrades for ROI maximization
Another way of avoiding below-average standard LED solutions is to go in for upgraded lighting solutions that come equipped with sensors and integrated controls. Such solutions are fitted onto the fixtures and may cost a little more, but these solutions gain better returns with blanket over-lapping coverage at all points.
- Best to consult with a lighting expert
The right way to ensure that you go in for high-efficiency LED solutions is to take professional help from lighting experts. It is a good idea to spend some time researching a credible energy engineering company. Such a company will have a team of professionals qualified and experienced in this domain. They will study and evaluate the current lighting solutions and draw up the requirement of a new solution keeping our budget and energy efficiencies in mind to offer a superior utility solution.
Knowing the product better
The first step in paving the way for equipping your place with high-efficiency LED products is to know the products, understand the technical specs, add-on features, versatile solutions possible, and more.
Sourcing high-efficiency LED products
When purchasing LED lighting solutions, it is imperative to first find out about the supplier or the manufacturing company. Due diligence should be undertaken to find the company’s credibility and record before signing on the dotted line. It is especially fruitful to learn about the issues that the products or the solutions have had with other customers and how the company has resolved such issues. Also, delve deep to find out if the company has been in the business for long or they are newcomers, their warranties, and other details. Such details are valuable information, especially when you need the replacement of solutions, products, and parts.
Getting acquainted with the LED energy efficiency industry
Only when abundant knowledge is gained about the industry, you start to get confidence in the suppliers, the products, fixtures, etc. By participating in workshops and training to gain knowledge on the industry is a good idea. One of the fastest and the most effective ways to know the industry is to start working with a company that offers energy efficiency solutions. One can appoint an engineering company working on a turnkey basis gives the option to have a supplier specialized in energy-efficient LED products to work on your project.
Conclusion
Companies need to be mindful and consciously take decisions keeping in mind the business requirements and the cost savings in the long run that each solution type can achieve. It is good to spend some time conducting a comparative study of the different energy efficiency products so that the decision is made based on facts and holistically.