Sage-Tips

Do LEDs have a start up current?

An LED driver creates a high inrush current at start-up, which can be 100 times the rated continuous current. Installation of multiple LED drivers in parallel on the same branch circuit can create an inrush current sufficient to damage electrical equipment.

Do LED lights need a surge protector?

Should I buy a surge protector for LEDs? The short answer: we recommend buying a surge protector when you’re replacing HID lamps (high intensity discharge) with LED lamps (light emitting diode).

Why do LED lights not turn on immediately?

This is caused by the LED transformer, which can be responsible for delays of up to 2 seconds after the light switch has been pressed. The reason for this delay is the same as with a line-voltage LED light source. The circuit in an LED transformer has several capacitors for the intermediate storage of energy.

How much current does an LED bulb need?

LED currents should be lesser than the optimum allowed for the LED. The maximum current for the standard 5mm diameter LEDs is typically 20mA. Therefore, 15mA and 10mA are ideal values for most circuits. LED lights require a certain voltage, such as 24 or 12V.

What is inrush current in LED lighting?

LED luminaires, drivers and controls Inrush current refers to the briefly occurring high input current which flows into the ECG (electronic control gear) during the initial mains power-up to charge the capacitors on the input side. Below are some frequently asked questions: 1.

Are LED lights more susceptible to power surges?

LED technology has been widely adopted in lighting because it is highly energy efficient and durable. On the other hand, LED lamps contain a number of delicate semiconductor elements, which are more susceptible to power surge damages than conventional lamps.

Can LED lights cause a power surge?

Even though surges in general can last for as little as a fraction of a second, it can take massive toll on all electrical appliances and devices that may be connected to the circuit. LED lights, even the tough ones like high power LED stadium lights and LED flood lights are affected by electrical surges.

Do LED lights draw less current?

LEDs draw less current (fewer amps) than incandescent and fluorescent lights of the same brightness. They draw much less current than incandescent bulbs of an equivalent visible light output, and somewhat less than fluorescents.

What voltage do LED lights work on?

Typically, the forward voltage of an LED is between 1.8 and 3.3 volts. It varies by the color of the LED. A red LED typically drops around 1.7 to 2.0 volts, but since both voltage drop and light frequency increase with band gap, a blue LED may drop around 3 to 3.3 volts.

What type of surge protection do I need for LED lights?

For your LED lights, there are two great options for surge protection: inline surge protectors and photocell receptacle surge protectors. Inline surge protectors are available for a range of LED options including flood lights, corn bulb lights, LED canopy lights and more.

How do voltage surges affect LED lighting?

Voltage surges have a huge destructive impact upon electronic equipment, including LED lighting systems. They wear out LED drivers and distribution panels prematurely and increase service interruptions to LED lighting.

What voltage is required for LED lights to work?

A small DC voltage is required for the correct function of an LED. This is generated in most light sources by an integrated power supply unit or an LED driver from the 120V mains supply. The switching power supplies used for this purpose represent a capacitive load.

When should you replace your led parking lot lights?

One strong surge could be the end of your protection so be ready to replace them, especially after a known large surge. Lots of small surges will wear down surge protectors and they may not protect your LED parking lot lights when you need it. 6.