7 Must Have Test Reports When Buy Any LED Lights

The LED lighting industry boasts a vast array of companies, numbering in the thousands. With enticing offers such as competitive prices and even free lighting upgrades, it can be challenging to navigate this market without risking subpar or hazardous products. Alarming statistics from a recent technical lighting conference in USA revealed that over a third of the surveyed LED floodlights were found to be non-compliant. This raises the need for consumers to prioritize safety and quality when exploring the diverse landscape of lighting suppliers.

In the absence of clear guidance, one effective approach is to subject potential suppliers to a due diligence process and carefully review their available test reports. Below is 7 must have test reports you’d better to check, no matter what LED lights you are buying.

1.Safety Certificate Of Compliance

A Safety Certificate of Compliance for LED lights is an official document issued by a recognized certification body or authority. It confirms that the LED lights have undergone rigorous testing and comply with safety standards and regulations. The certificate serves as evidence that the LED lights have met specific safety criteria and can be considered safe for use.

2.LM79 Test Reports

The LM-79 test is a standardized testing procedure used to measure and evaluate the performance characteristics of LED lights. It is conducted in accordance with the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) LM-79 standard, which provides guidelines for the electrical and photometric measurements of solid-state lighting products.

The purpose of the LM-79 test is to assess the performance of LED lights in terms of their light output, energy efficiency, color characteristics, and other relevant parameters. The test provides objective and comparable data that allows consumers and lighting professionals to make informed decisions when selecting LED lighting products.

During the LM-79 test, the following measurements are typically performed:

2.1 Luminous Flux: This measures the total amount of light emitted by the LED light source, expressed in lumens (lm). It provides information about the brightness of the light.

2.2 Electrical Power: This measures the power consumed by the LED light source, expressed in watts (W). It helps determine the energy efficiency of the LED light.

2.3 Luminous Efficacy: This calculates the efficiency of the LED light by dividing the luminous flux by the electrical power, expressed in lumens per watt (lm/W). It indicates how effectively the LED light converts electrical power into visible light.

2.4 Chromaticity: This measures the color characteristics of the LED light source, represented by its color coordinates in the CIE (Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage) color space. It provides information about the color temperature and color rendering properties of the light.

2.5 Photometric Distribution: This evaluates the light distribution pattern of the LED light source in different directions. It provides information about the beam angle and light intensity at various angles.

3.LM80 Test Reports

The LM-80 test is a standardized test method used to evaluate the lumen maintenance of LED light sources over time. It is conducted in accordance with the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) LM-80 standard, which provides guidelines for measuring and reporting the long-term performance of LED packages, arrays, and modules.

The purpose of the LM-80 test is to assess how the light output of LED light sources changes over an extended period, typically up to 6,000 hours or more. This test helps determine the expected lumen depreciation of LED lights, providing valuable information about their long-term performance and reliability.

During the LM-80 test, LED light sources are subjected to continuous operation under controlled conditions. Measurements are taken periodically at defined intervals to track the changes in light output over time. The test typically involves the following steps:

3.1 Stabilization: The LED light sources are initially operated for a specified period to allow for stabilization of their thermal characteristics. This ensures consistent operating conditions during the test.

3.2 Light Output Measurements: Luminous flux measurements are taken at regular intervals, typically at 1,000-hour increments, throughout the duration of the test. These measurements provide data on the light output of the LED light sources over time.

3.3 Temperature Monitoring: The temperature of the LED light sources is continuously monitored during the test to ensure that they are operated within specified temperature ranges. Temperature can significantly affect the performance and lumen maintenance of LEDs.

4.Photometric Reports(IES files)

A photometric report for LED lights is a document that provides detailed information about the photometric performance of a specific LED lighting product. It is generated through photometric testing and analysis, which involves measuring and documenting various photometric characteristics of the light emitted by the LED fixture.

A typical photometric report for LED lights may include the following information:

4.1 Luminous Intensity Distribution: This section of the report provides data on how the light is distributed in different directions from the LED fixture. It includes diagrams and polar plots that illustrate the intensity of light at various angles, allowing users to understand the light’s spread and directionality.

4.1 Luminous Intensity Distribution: This section of the report provides data on how the light is distributed in different directions from the LED fixture. It includes diagrams and polar plots that illustrate the intensity of light at various angles, allowing users to understand the light’s spread and directionality.

4.3 Beam Angle and Beam Spread: The photometric report may include information about the beam angle and beam spread of the LED light. These parameters describe the angular extent and coverage area of the light beam emitted by the fixture.

4.4 Efficiency and Energy Consumption: The report may include information on the energy efficiency of the LED light, typically expressed as luminous efficacy (lumens per watt). This allows users to evaluate the light’s performance in terms of energy consumption and efficiency.

5.IP Test Report

An IP (Ingress Protection) test report for LED lights provides information on the level of protection the light fixture offers against the intrusion of solid particles (like dust) and liquids (such as water). The IP test assesses the LED light’s resistance to these external elements and assigns it an IP rating, which is indicated by a two-digit code.

The IP rating consists of two numbers. The first digit represents the level of protection against solid particles, while the second digit indicates the protection against liquids. Each digit has a specific range of values that correspond to different degrees of protection.

6.IK Test Reports

An IK (Impact Protection) test report for LED lights provides information on the light fixture’s resistance to mechanical impacts or external forces. The IK test assesses the LED light’s ability to withstand impacts from various objects and assigns it an IK rating, which indicates the degree of protection against mechanical impact.

The IK rating is represented by a two-digit code, similar to the IP rating for ingress protection. The first digit indicates the level of protection against impacts from solid objects, while the second digit represents the energy level at which the light fixture can withstand impacts.

The IK test report typically includes the following details:

7.High Temperature Test Reports

The high-temperature test for LED lights is a testing procedure conducted to evaluate the performance and reliability of LED light fixtures under elevated temperature conditions. This test helps assess how the LED lights perform when exposed to high temperatures, such as those encountered in certain operating environments or during extended periods of use.

The purpose of the high-temperature test is to simulate and evaluate the LED light’s behavior under extreme temperature conditions, ensuring that it can withstand heat without significant degradation in performance or reliability. The test helps identify any potential issues that may arise when the LED light operates in high-temperature environments.

8.Conclusion

While the LED lighting market presents a wealth of options, it is crucial to navigate this terrain carefully to avoid potential pitfalls. The prevalence of non-compliant LED floodlights underscores the importance of conducting thorough research, relying on customer feedback, and considering warranty and after-sales support. By prioritizing safety and quality, consumers can make informed decisions and enjoy the benefits of reliable and efficient LED lighting solutions.

LED lights are fast replacing incandescent, HID and fluorescent lights in almost every area, whether in residential or in commercial or industrial establishments, due to higher energy savings, more illumination and other benefits. LED lights are a great choice for saving energy, improving lighting quality, and reducing environmental impact. However, there are many factors to consider when choosing, such as wattage, luminosity, guarantee, features, base type, and certifications. Here are 6 important factors that you should look at while trying to choose LED lights.

1. Wattage

Wattage is the amount of energy that a light bulb consumes. LED lights are much more efficient than incandescent and fluorescent bulbs, which means they produce more light with less power. For example, an LED bulb with 8 watts can produce the same brightness as an incandescent bulb with 60 watts. You should look for the wattage that matches your lighting needs and preferences. You can save money and energy by choosing a lower wattage bulb that provides enough light for your purpose.

2. Lumens

. It is expressed in lumens (lm), which indicate the brightness of the light. You should look for the lumen output that matches or exceeds your existing bulb. For example, if you want to replace a 400-watt metal halide bulb, you need between 12,000 and 18,000 lumens of LED light. You can find a fixture in this range or visit our. There you will see bulbs of 100 watts, 120 watts or 150 watts. These are all common replacements for this wattage.

3. Warranty 

Guarantee is the warranty or assurance that a light bulb will last for a certain period of time or perform as expected. LED lights are very durable and long-lasting, but they may still fail or malfunction due to various reasons. You should look for a light bulb that comes with a guarantee from the manufacturer or the seller. This will ensure that you can get a replacement or a refund if you encounter any problem with your LED light. Be sure they have a phone number and can be easily reached. Having a long warranty is no good if they don't honor it or you cant reach them.

4. Features 

Features are the additional characteristics or functions that a light bulb may have. Some of the features that you may want to look for in an LED light are:

• Heat capacity: This is the ability of a light bulb to withstand high temperatures and dissipate heat. LED lights generate less heat than incandescent and fluorescent bulbs, but they still need proper cooling to maintain their performance and lifespan. You should look for a light bulb that has a low heat capacity and a good heat sink design.
• Dimming capability: This is the ability of a light bulb to adjust its brightness according to your preference or mood. LED lights can be dimmed with compatible dimmers or controllers, which can also save energy and extend their lifespan. You should look for a light bulb that has a dimming capability and is compatible with your existing dimmer or controller.
• Color temperature: This is the color of the light that a bulb emits. It is measured in Kelvin (K) and ranges from warm white (2700K-3000K) to cool white (5000K-5700K). The color temperature you choose depends on your personal preference and the application. For indoor use, such as in living rooms, bedrooms, or offices, you may want a warm white or a neutral white color temperature. For outdoor use, such as in parking lots, streets, or garages, you may want a cool white color temperature.

5. Base size & Voltage

Base type is the shape and size of the socket that a light bulb fits into. LED lights come in different base types, such as E26 (standard), E39 (mogul), GU10 (pin), MR16 (spot), etc. You should look for a base type that matches your existing socket or fixture. If you are not sure about your base type, you can measure the diameter of your socket or check the label on your existing bulb.

6. Certifications

Certifications are the approvals or accreditations that a light bulb has received from independent organizations or agencies that verify its quality, safety, performance, and compliance with standards and regulations. LED lights may have different certifications depending on their product type and market region. Some of the common certifications for LED lights are:

• UL: This stands for Underwriters Laboratories, which is the most recognized safety testing and evaluation agency in the United States. It is an independent, non-profit, and professional organization that provides public safety testing for products and componentshttps://www.ul.com/services/certification. UL certification means that a product has met UL's safety standards and requirements.
• DLC: This stands for DesignLights Consortium, which is an organization that promotes energy efficiency and quality in commercial LED lighting solutions. It is composed of utility companies, regional energy efficiency organizations, manufacturers, lighting designers, and government entities. DLC certification means that a product has met DLC's technical requirements and performance criteria.

You should look for LED lights that have UL certification for safety and DLC certification for energy efficiency and quality. These certifications will also help you qualify for rebates and incentives from utility companies and government agencies. You can search for UL certified products on the UL Certification Database certification and DLC certified products on the DLC Qualified Products Lists.

References:

https://www.ul.com/services/certification

https://www.ejet.com/what-is-ul-certification/