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LED replacement projects have gained popularity due to their promises of significant energy savings and quick returns on investment. Retrofitting offers the possibility of achieving these savings and benefits without the expense of completely new fittings. It has been touted as a quick and easy solution with low investment, energy savings, adherence to ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ principles, improved performance, reduced maintenance costs, and less strain on limited natural resources. However, before opting for this approach, it is important to evaluate several factors to avoid unforeseen expenses.
Before considering LED retrofit gear trays, the integrity of the existing fittings should be thoroughly examined. We always recommend reviewing a sample product ideally at ground level, however, the likelihood is that every product on site will be in varying states of deterioration or degradation – which can impact the installation of gear trays and may necessitate extensive refurbishment and replacement parts. This is where a comprehensive asset inventory or on-site assessment of all fittings to be replaced and their surroundings is essential. Additional costs such as cherry pickers and audits may begin to emerge, challenging the notion of retrofitting as the most economical choice. Errors in inventory can be the biggest risk to retrofit schemes as incorrect lighting specifications, quantities and geometries are ordered.
LED technology has distinct thermal and weight characteristics compared to traditional lamps. LED gear trays require proper heat dissipation, as they do not naturally radiate heat. The localised heat within a luminaire can affect its performance. Moreover, the weight of LED gear trays may exceed the specifications of the existing fixtures, potentially causing damage and impacting windage and column loading. Consideration also needs to be made to the loading on old hinges and closing fixings. Therefore, ensuring compatibility between the thermal and weight requirements of the gear trays and the existing fixtures is crucial.
LED replacement gear trays may not offer the same photometric performance as the original lamps, which can result in poor, non-uniform lighting or glare. This aspect is especially critical in locations such as motorways, major roads, and public areas where lighting quality directly impacts visibility and safety. Additionally, the efficiency of LED replacement gear trays should be carefully considered to ensure the expected energy savings are achieved. The benefits of good lighting including considering the colour temperature and varying optics does present advantages, however, the public do not always like change – consultation is always advisable including small trial schemes.
Retrofit gear trays may require compatibility checks with existing control systems. Retrofitting LED gear trays can necessitate adjustments to control systems, adding wiring, fittings, and labour costs.
More importantly, altering the original luminaire, such as rewiring or removing components, can affect existing warranties. It is essential to ensure compliance with safety certifications, testing, and conformity with standards when modifying the original luminaire. Always opt for a reputable manufacturer and ensure that CE and UKCA markings are on the product with accompanying conformity documentation. It is also worth checking with the manufacturer whether any ENEC certification becomes void.
While retrofitting LED gear trays may initially seem like an attractive and cost-effective solution that aligns with sustainability goals, it is crucial to consider several factors before proceeding to avoid unexpected expenses, delays and stakeholder satisfaction.
Our story
The idea for Acrospire was formed in 2012 when founder Tim envisioned a different kind of lighting manufacturer: one that would not only deliver outstanding customer experiences but also prioritise fair treatment for its employees.
We’ve come a long way
Motivated by the belief the industry wanted and needed better, Tim shared his plan to establish his own venture with Hatty, who simply couldn't let him do it alone.
The rest, as they say, is history.
Protecting local jobs and ensuring the best quality possible.
Working from a rented office by day and assembling lanterns in a garage at night, Tim and Hatty set to work.
11 Years later
Acrospire now inhabits a 14000² ft manufacturing facility in Basingstoke, Hampshire. We’re a proud partner of the Made in Britain scheme, ISO9001 certified and a member of all relevant lighting industry trade bodies.
Along with great relationships with our customers and a great team! We've attracted some of the most experienced members of the lighting industry, all by following one golden rule.
A simple ethos
That runs through all that we do. Customers who have made the switch to Acrospire have found working with us to be a breath of fresh air.
If you’re a professional in the lighting industry, you’re probably familiar with warranties that range from 3 to 10 years, with extensions available on special request or at additional cost. At Acrospire, where we’re proud to be different, we offer a market-leading simple 12-year warranty, as standard.
We focus on our customers not our competition. We manufacture our products in the UK: with the exception of our solar products, our supply chain is within a 60-mile radius of our factory in Basingstoke: to maintain greater control over quality. We al
Speed of response is crucial when it comes to resolving warranty issues. If we’ve made a mistake, we own it, get to the root cause, and fix it as quickly as possible. We believe in timely communication with our customers and making the resolution pro
Test and Test Again
We believe in independent testing and certification. Our new product development is in line with ISO 9001. Many of our products hold ENEC Certification. To meet the requirements of ENEC we also send random product samples for third party safety testi
Our product design is another key factor in our ability to offer a 12-year warranty. We value engineer rather than cost cut, never compromising on quality. We stick to our processes and engage with our supply chain to ensure that every product meets