When new, a metal halide bulb can produce close to 100 lumens per watt, delivering bright and powerful illumination. Unfortunately, this efficiency doesn’t last long. Over the first few years, the lumen output can drop by as much as 50%. This is known as lumen depreciation, and it happens because the bulb's components degrade with use.

Metal halide systems rely on ballasts to regulate the flow of electricity. Over time, ballasts also lose efficiency, contributing to further light loss and uneven performance. This makes MH systems not only less effective but also more costly to maintain compared to modern LED technology.

LEDs, on the other hand, maintain their lumen output over their lifespan, offering consistent performance and energy efficiency. This makes them an excellent replacement, but it’s important to match the LED output to your MH fixture's original performance for the best results.

LED fixtures are designed to emit light in a 180-degree pattern, directing illumination where it’s needed most. This makes them ideal for high bay lighting, parking lot lights, and other applications where focused lighting is required.

• Advantages:

  • Minimal light loss, as all lumens are directed downward.
  • More energy-efficient, requiring lower wattage for the same brightness.
  • Customizable beam angles for targeted illumination.

• Best Applications:

  • High ceilings, such as warehouses and industrial spaces.
  • Parking lots and outdoor areas requiring directional lighting.

Corn bulbs emit light in a 360-degree pattern, mimicking the output of traditional MH bulbs. While this makes them a flexible option, a significant portion of the light may be lost if the fixture relies on reflectors to redirect the beam.

• Advantages:

  • Easy to install, often without needing to replace the fixture.
  • Suitable for spaces where diffuse lighting is acceptable.

• Challenges:

  • Higher wattage is often required to achieve comparable brightness.
  • Reflector designs can lead to inefficiencies, with some light trapped within the fixture.

• Best Applications:

  • Low-bay lighting.
  • Spaces where a more uniform light spread is preferred, such as retail areas.

Upgrading from metal halide to LED lighting is a smart investment that delivers significant energy savings, consistent performance, and reduced maintenance costs. By understanding the lumen and wattage equivalents, choosing between fixtures and bulbs, and considering your application’s specific needs, you can make an informed decision that optimizes your lighting system.

LED technology offers unparalleled efficiency and flexibility, with options tailored to everything from high bay industrial spaces to outdoor parking lots. Whether you need a focused beam for a high-ceiling warehouse or a broad light spread for retail spaces, there’s an LED solution to fit your requirements.

Ready to take the next step? Explore our range of LED fixtures and retrofit bulbs to find the perfect replacement for your metal halide system. With the right choice, you’ll enjoy brighter, more efficient lighting for years to come.