How Long Do LED Light Bars Last? Key Factors to Know
Durability and longevity are naturally important topics for various first responder and emergency products, and emergency LED light bars are a great example. How long do LED light bars for trucks, cars and other emergency vehicles last? Several factors tend to be at play here.
At LED Equipped, we're proud to offer an extensive range of LED light bars for trucks, cars and various other emergency vehicles to ensure safety and visibility on the road. From standard light bars to mini LED light bars and more, we have all the products you need to stay safe. Here are some basics to know when it comes to the expected lifespan of LED light bars, from their general averages to some of the key factors that influence them.
Typical LED Light Bar Lifespan
When we talk about the lifespan of LED light bars and related LED products, the meaningful metric we're looking at is hours of use. This is the simplest way to standardize measurements between different types of LED light bars and other products. The general expectation is that a good LED light bar will last at least 30,000 hours of use before needing to be replaced. Some high-quality brands may even go up to 50,000 or more hours, and the very best can even reach close to 100,000.
The exact lifespan can vary based on several specific factors, however - some of which users have direct control over. Let's dive into these for the rest of this blog.
Temperature
One of the largest contributors to the lifespan of an LED light bar is the temperature at which it operates. As a general rule, cooler temperatures will lead to a longer lifespan for your light bar. This is because heat can cause damage to the internal components and reduce their efficiency over time.
To help mitigate this issue, many high-quality LED light bars come with built-in heat sinks or cooling fans to help dissipate excess heat. Additionally, making sure that there is proper ventilation around your light bar can also help keep temperatures in check and extend its overall lifespan.
Voltage
Another important factor in the longevity of an LED light bar is the voltage at which it runs. Generally, LEDs are designed to run at a specific voltage, and using a higher or lower voltage can greatly affect their performance and lifespan.
When choosing an LED light bar, it is important to make sure that the voltage output of your vehicle's electrical system is compatible with the light bar. Using a voltage regulator or stabilizer can also help ensure that your LED light bar receives the correct voltage and operates at its optimal level.
Proper Mounting
It's also crucial to properly mount your LED light bar to ensure its longevity and performance. Most LED light bars come with mounting brackets that can be attached to the vehicle's frame or roof rack. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation and use appropriate hardware.
Additionally, make sure to test the stability of your mounting before hitting the road. Vibration from rough terrain or high speeds can cause your light bar to become loose or even fall off, which not only poses a safety hazard but can also damage the light itself.
Frequent On-Off Switching
While they are less susceptible to wear-and-tear due to regular on-off switching than most other light formats today, it's still true that highly frequent switching can have a minor impact on overall lifespan. Wherever possible, it's good to avoid too much switching on and off of lights in short succession.
However, sometimes that's simply a necessary behavior for first responders - and you shouldn't hesitate to save lives just because it might impact your lights slightly over time. In addition, LED lights are still generally far more long-lasting than traditional light bulbs, which is why they're becoming increasingly widespread in emergency services.
Basic Care
As you may have guessed, another significant factor in the lifespan of LED light bars is the kind of care and maintenance they receive. While some wear and tear is normal, taking proper care of your light bar can greatly extend its lifespan.
First of all, it's important to regularly clean your light bar to prevent any buildup of dirt or debris that can affect its performance. Use a mild soap and water solution to gently wipe down the surface of the lights, being careful not to scratch the lenses. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as these can damage the lights.
In addition, make sure to inspect your light bar regularly for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any cracks or other issues with the housing or wiring, it's best to address them immediately before they cause further damage.
Tips for Extending LED Light Bar Lifespan
In addition to the areas we've gone over already, here are some basic tips for maximizing the lifespan of your LED light bars:
- Consider a dimmer switch: Many of today's LED light bars come with built-in dimmer switches, allowing you to adjust the brightness of the lights as needed. This not only helps you save power, but also puts less strain on the LEDs themselves, potentially extending their lifespan.
- Keep them clean: As with any other electronic device, it's important to keep your LED light bar clean and free of debris. Use a soft cloth to wipe away any dirt or grime that may accumulate on the lenses or housing.
- Proper storage: If you plan on storing your LED light bars for an extended period of time, make sure to do so in a cool and dry place. High temperatures and humidity can damage the circuitry and components within the lights.
- Check for damage: Regularly inspect your LED light bars for any signs of damage, such as cracked lenses or loose wiring. If you notice any issues, it's important to address them promptly to prevent further damage or malfunctions.
At LED Equipped, we're proud to offer a huge selection of standard and mini LED light bars for trucks, cars and other emergency vehicles. Contact us today to find the perfect light bar for your needs and ensure optimal safety and visibility on the road.