When considering LED lighting for maritime use, the advantages are plentiful! They are significantly more energy-efficient, which not only saves money but also benefits the environment. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the benefits of transitioning to LED lighting. They ensure the safety of docks and marinas, enhance the visibility and recognizability of businesses, and are essential for safety and navigation on recreational vessels and barges. But what sets some LED lights apart as superior? Let's delve deeper.

First and foremost, the source of your lighting is crucial. It can be challenging to discern whether the LED you're purchasing is of low or high quality, which is why partnering with a trustworthy supplier is essential. Avoid the temptation of big box stores—similar to most investments, the most affordable option isn't always the best. Opt for a distributor that provides both LED fixtures and bulbs; retrofitting is not the best investment if you're not utilizing integrated fixtures.

Retrofitting doesn't always optimize the efficiency of the new lighting, which is another consideration. While retrofitting can lead to significant energy savings, it's important to ensure that the LED bulbs you select can be dimmed to function at peak energy-saving efficiency—otherwise, you might be wasting money every month.

Another critical factor is the ENERGY STAR certification. With this certification, lighting is guaranteed to be flicker-free, true to color, and offer the energy efficiency that LED lighting is known for.

ENERGY STAR requirements were introduced in 1997 as an efficient lighting option without compromising efficacy and function. Possessing an ENERGY STAR certification means that your lighting meets the minimum performance levels as claimed by manufacturers and has been tested by a third-party certification laboratory to ensure accuracy and industry compliance.

Beyond protecting against substandard lighting, ENERGY STAR certification ensures that the bulbs you purchase emit light in all directions. This is particularly important for businesses that rely on LED lighting for safety, as improper lighting can cast dark shadows that could endanger the safety of employees and visitors.

Selecting a reliable distributor who offers ENERGY STAR-certified lighting and LED integrated fixtures maximizes the lifespan of your lighting. With longer hours of operation, maintenance costs are reduced. Cheaper LED lighting without certification will only last about two to three years and require more frequent replacement. High-quality lighting from a specialized supplier will last a decade—consider your building and calculate the savings.

Additional features are a significant reason to bypass cheap LED lighting. Dimmers ensure that you're maximizing efficiency and maintaining lighting levels that are optimized for the space. LED suppliers also possess the expertise needed to guide you to the right fixtures. Avoid the common mistake of attempting a DIY project with lighting. That tale seldom has a happy ending, especially when you have to pay for repairs or replacements of broken or poorly made lighting.

Ultimately, remember that not all LED lighting is created equal, and the cheapest option might be tempting. Lower-quality LED lighting and fixtures have a shorter lifespan and can be less energy-efficient.

Conversely, investing in high-quality lighting provides peace of mind, knowing it will stand the test of time and keep operators safe without unexpected lighting malfunctions before the claimed lifetime. Reach Yushuo to our team of marine lighting experts to better understand your options, especially if you're considering an upgrade to LED lighting.