An increasing number of LED products are becoming available for general office applications, to replace traditional fluorescent troffers. They are available in 2×2, 2×4 and 1×4 sizes, many are DLC-listed, and some exceed the efficacy of high-efficiency fluorescent systems. Their cost is still high compared to fluorescent fixtures, but their long lamp life may provide enough operational savings to make up for that over time. They’re available in a range of color temperatures, they have a high color-rendering index, and they’re dimmable, providing the lights are compatible with the dimming controls.
At GreenTech Energy Services, we recently conducted an experiment in our own hallways, where existing fixtures were four-lamp T8 troffers. Gutting the fixtures, we replaced the lamps and ballasts with LED recessed lay-in retrofit kits. Not having to replace the whole fixture saved time and money, but we got the look of brand new LEDs, with two-piece fluted lens, satin-finished aluminum centerpiece, and a CRI of over 80. See the results below.
 Hallway – Before |
 Fixture – Before |
 Hallway – After |
 Fixtures – After |