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Replacing LED Drivers – Where to Start?
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What Is an LED Driver?
An LED driver is a critical component in commercial LED lighting systems, responsible for regulating and supplying power to LED fixtures. LED lights operate using drivers that manage electrical current and ensure consistent, safe performance. Because LEDs require significantly less power than traditional lighting, the driver works to convert AC (alternating current) to DC (direct current) while maintaining the proper voltage and current levels needed for the fixture to operate correctly.
In addition to power conversion, an LED lighting driver protects fixtures from power surges, voltage fluctuations, and overheating, all of which can shorten the lifespan of commercial LED lights. A properly functioning driver helps maintain light output, efficiency, and long-term reliability, making it essential for parking lot lighting, warehouse lighting, office lighting, and other commercial applications.
What to Do If You Suspect a Faulty LED Driver
If you believe you’re experiencing a faulty LED driver in a commercial lighting fixture, having accurate information can speed up diagnosis and repair. Whenever possible, take a clear photograph of the existing driver or fixture label. This helps identify the manufacturer name, model number, and electrical specifications, which are typically the first details a lighting professional will request.
Based on this information, the next step will usually involve one of the following:
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Confirming whether the LED driver can be replaced independently
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Identifying a compatible replacement driver
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Determining if a full LED fixture replacement or retrofit is the most cost-effective solution
Working with a commercial lighting professional ensures the issue is resolved safely and that your lighting system continues to operate efficiently and reliably.
Photo credit: Advance Xitanium LED drivers
- Warranty Fixture Replacement – Many reputable manufacturers offer a free, no hassle warranty with their product so it’s also important to know when and where you purchased your product. This method can be much easier to resolve for all parties involved, so as you can see, it’s important to ask about your product’s warranty before purchasing. Reputable manufacturers with an extended no hassle warranty are preferred at Bay Lighting and if the product was purchased with Bay Lighting, customers can count on us for facilitating warranty replacements based on the respective manufacturer terms and guidelines.
- LED Driver Replacement – Once you determined the manufacturer and part number and have decided to move forward, your lighting specialist will begin their research. Replacing a driver can be an overwhelming task but from experience, we are pretty quick and knowing if a replacement will be able to be found or not. In our research, our goal is to determine if the:
- Fixture is still in production
- Fixture will allow for a tunable solution
- Warranty is still in effect
- LED Fixture Replacement – At times, finding an LED replacement driver is not an option. If this is the case, our specialist can assist with purchasing a new fixture that is the same as was previously purchased or recommend a similar option.
Replacing or updating drivers and other LED replacement parts can be an overwhelming task. Through knowledge and experience a lighting professional can help you find the best solution, saving you hours of research time. For more information about replacing LED drivers, contact a member of the Bay Lighting team at 301-858-9494.
You can also request a quote online now, and a representative will be in touch.
