In recent years, LED lighting has begun to dominate the general purpose lighting market. Hailed for its longevity, energy efficiency, and design flexibility, LED has surpassed both halogens and incandescents in popularity. To adapt to this expanding market, retailers have begun to increasingly release LED Integrated Lighting Fixtures. 

One study found that in 2017, 70 percent of the general purpose lighting fixture market was tied to either LED-integrated fixtures, which are often called luminaires, or LED-ready fixtures that require separate LED bulbs or tubes. It is expected that by 2020, LED-integrated fixtures will be more popular than any other type of lighting.

At The Lighting Shoppe, we often have clients say:

I’d like to upgrade to LED lighting, but I’m unsure if I want to purchase a screw-in replacement product or a LED-Integrated lighting fixture.

While there are various benefits to integrating LED lights into fixtures, there are a number of factors that consumers need to be aware of before purchasing. Although we typically do not recommend LED Integrated lighting fixtures, we’re going to unpack the positives and negatives in an effort to help consumers make an informed decision that suits their needs, lifestyle, and budget.

Integrated LED Lighting 

Prior to LED integrated lighting, light fixtures and sources have always been manufactured as two separate products. LED integrated lighting streamlines the manufacturing process by including LED lights directly into the fixture. Although integrated lighting fixtures may allow for increased light control, they pose a variety of difficulties in regards to both maintenance and upgrades. But first, let’s unpack the benefits.

Pro’s

Increased Control Over Light Output

Integrating LEDs into fixtures gives manufacturers the ability to optimize the operation of each component of the product, which includes the light source itself. Therefore, many LED integrated lighting fixtures allow for increased control over light output and placement. This includes the ability to dim lights.

Light Longevity

The LED lights that are integrated into the fixture typically have an average lifespan of around 50,000 hours or more. Many experts have even compared the lifespan of LED lights to that of a roof.

New Design Options

LED integration has brought a substantial opportunity for fixture design. Typically, lighting has been sized to accommodate large bulbs and bulky tubes. However, LEDs are inherently compact and can be used in modular units with a sleeker design.

Con’s

LEDs impose expiration dates on fixtures

This is perhaps the largest disadvantage of LED integrated light fixtures. Although LED lights have a long life span, integrating the light source into the fixture essentially places an expiration date on the fixture itself. Since consumers tend to view light fixtures as a permanent installation, it’s important to consider this risk.

Up-front cost is higher

Integrated LED lighting fixtures tend to have a high upfront cost. For example, a conventional trackhead costs around $20-30, while an integrated LED trackhead costs around $110-350. Although many argue that the light pays for itself since its lifespan is estimated to be 20 years, this is not always true.

Complication and Expensive Installation

Due to the nature of integrated LED lighting, installation is often more complicated and expensive than traditional fixtures. Typically, installing these lights requires professional assistance.

So, integrated LED or Independent?

Ultimately, the choice is yours. If a large upfront cost is not in your budget or you already have a lighting source in place, independent lighting is likely your best bet. If lighting control is incredibly important to you, you might want to consider going with an integrated LED Light. However, it’s important that you’re completely aware of the costs and requirements of doing so. If you’re stuck between the two, we’d recommend going with a traditional light.

If you have any further questions about LED integrated lighting, please feel free to contact the Lighting Shoppe today for all of your lighting needs and concerns.

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