Retrofitting Specialty Fixtures: Exit Signs, Traffic Lights

In many applications where long-life lamps are important (cost of changing is high) and where low energy use is desired, LED lamps should be considered.

LED Exit Signs - LEDs are becoming increasingly popular. The light emitting diode, or LED meets electrical code requirements in most applications, uses minimal amounts of electricity, 2 to 6 watts, and lasts up to 40 years. LED's can achieve cost savings and the inconvenience and cost of replacing lamps.

Traffic Lamps

Incandescent traffic light bulbs are not as efficient as "standard" incandescent lamps. Incandescent traffic light bulbs (traffic signal lamps) must be designed to withstand the vibration of passing trucks, and are designed to last usually 8,000 hours. They are also not as efficient because traffic lights are colored and the red and green lenses block about 70 percent of the light.

Traffic signals that have earned the ENERGY STAR use 80-90% less energy than conventional signals, while providing reliable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance performance.

Advantages of using high efficiency light emitting diode (LED) technology LED signals:

• Use 80-90% less energy
• Rarely fail, lowering the risk of accidents at intersections and therefore lowering liability costs
• Can last up to 10 years, compared to less than two years for conventional traffic signals
• Have lower maintenance costs because they need to be replaced less frequently
• Simplify inventory control by reducing the need to keep parts in stock

Illustrations and some text courtesy of LEDtronics, Inc., Torrance, CA, 90505

And Furthermore . . .