Plenty of commercial buildings on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane still run fluorescent troffers, metal halide high bays or halogen downlights. They work, but they use more energy, run hotter and need more maintenance than modern LED fittings. An LED upgrade can make a real difference to running costs and light quality, but only if it’s planned properly. This guide covers what we look at before we recommend one.
Why businesses upgrade to LED
The main reasons are lower energy use and lower maintenance. LED fittings generally draw less power for the same light output and last much longer than older lamp types, which means fewer lamp changes and less time on ladders, scissor lifts or boom lifts. In warehouses with high ceilings, that maintenance saving alone can be significant.
There are other benefits too. LED lighting produces less heat, which helps air conditioning in offices and shops. It turns on instantly, unlike metal halide lamps that take time to warm up. And it pairs well with sensors and controls, so lights can dim or switch off when areas are empty.
Start with a lighting assessment
Before choosing fittings, we walk the site and look at what’s there now. We note the existing fittings, ceiling heights, how each space is used, operating hours and any problem areas such as dark aisles, glare on screens or flicker. We also check the condition of the existing wiring and switching.
This matters because a straight swap isn’t always the right answer. A warehouse that has changed from bulk storage to picking may need more light at the racking faces. An office that now has open-plan desks may have too much light in some areas and not enough in others. Getting the layout right is what makes an upgrade feel like an improvement rather than just a change.
Retrofit or replace
There are two broad approaches:
- Retrofit: keeping the existing fitting body and fitting LED tubes or modules. It can work, but the result depends on the condition of the old fitting, and some retrofit products bypass or modify original components.
- Full replacement: removing the old fitting and installing a new LED fitting designed as a complete unit. This is usually the more reliable long-term option and gives better control over light output and quality.
Some retrofit tubes need the old ballast or starter removed or bypassed, which changes the fitting from how it was originally tested and supplied. If a retrofit is done, it should be done by a licensed electrician and labelled so the next person knows what’s inside.
In most commercial jobs we recommend full replacement. The fittings are designed and tested as a whole, the warranty sits with one product, and you get a consistent result across the space.
Choosing the right fittings
A few specifications make a big difference to how a space feels and works:
- Light output and distribution: enough light on the task, spread evenly, without dark patches or hot spots
- Colour temperature: neutral white suits most offices and warehouses, while warmer tones may suit hospitality and some retail
- Colour rendering: important in retail, food preparation and medical settings where colours need to look right
- Glare control: particularly in offices with screens and in high-bay areas where people look up
- IP rating: for wet areas, wash-down zones, car parks and outdoor fittings, especially near the coast
Australian standards for interior lighting, such as the AS/NZS 1680 series, give guidance on recommended light levels for different tasks and spaces. We use these as a reference when we design a layout.
Controls and sensors
Controls are where much of the benefit sits. Occupancy sensors in toilets, storerooms and meeting rooms stop lights running in empty spaces. Daylight sensors dim fittings near windows and skylights. Time schedules make sure lights turn off after hours. In warehouses, zoned sensors in aisles only light the areas being used.
The right controls depend on the building. A simple sensor in each small room is often the quickest win. Larger sites may justify a networked control system that can be adjusted as the business changes.
Emergency lighting during an upgrade
An LED upgrade is a good time to deal with emergency and exit lighting as well. Many older buildings have fluorescent emergency fittings that are due for replacement. Swapping them to LED emergency fittings at the same time reduces disruption and ongoing maintenance. Any new emergency fittings need to meet AS/NZS 2293 and be tested and recorded. Our emergency lighting service can be done in the same program.
Planning the installation
We plan LED upgrades around the business. Offices can often be done after hours or floor by floor. Warehouses may be done aisle by aisle to keep operations running. Retail and hospitality work can be scheduled outside trading hours. Old fittings and lamps are disposed of responsibly, including fluorescent tubes that contain mercury.
At the end of the job, all circuits are tested and we issue a certificate of testing and compliance. We also update switchboard labelling if circuits or controls have changed.
Rebates and incentives
Energy efficiency programs and incentives come and go, and eligibility rules vary between Queensland and NSW. We don’t quote savings or rebate amounts, because they depend on your site and change over time. If you’re considering an upgrade, it’s worth checking current government and energy retailer programs before you commit.
Getting a quote
Our commercial lighting team works on offices, warehouses, retail and hospitality sites from Byron Bay to Brisbane. We’ll assess the site, recommend fittings and controls, and give you an upfront written quote. For a broader look at energy use, see our guide on how to reduce business electricity costs or our energy efficiency service.
Safety note: electrical work in Queensland and NSW must be done by a licensed electrician. This article is general information, not advice for your specific property. If something looks or smells wrong, switch off at the main switch if it’s safe to do so and call an electrician.