Question 1

How much can I save switching to LED?

Accepted Answer

Typical residential savings: $150–$400/year. Commercial buildings often see 50%+ lighting energy reduction with 2–4 year payback.

Question 2

Do I need to change my dimmers to use LED?

Accepted Answer

Often yes. Old incandescent dimmers cause LED flicker and buzz. We supply and install LED-rated dimmers matched to your specific bulbs.

Question 3

How long do LED bulbs actually last?

Accepted Answer

Quality LED lamps run 25,000–50,000 hours — 15–25 years of typical residential use. Commercial-grade LEDs run longer.

Question 4

What's CRI and does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Color Rendering Index measures how accurately light shows color. 90+ CRI is ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and retail. 80 CRI is fine for general residential.

Question 5

Should I do a full fixture retrofit or just bulbs?

Accepted Answer

Bulbs are cheaper and quick. Full-fixture LED retrofits (integrated LED cans, driver on board) are more efficient, longer-lasting, and look better.

Question 6

Do LEDs work with existing 3-way switches?

Accepted Answer

Yes with 3-way LED-rated dimmers. We swap both switches during the upgrade.

Question 7

Can you convert my fluorescent tubes to LED?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We install ballast-bypass LED tubes (best long-term) or plug-and-play LED tubes (easier, keeps ballast until it fails).

Question 8

How much does an LED upgrade cost?

Accepted Answer

Whole-home LED conversion typically $800–$2,500 depending on fixture count and dimmer needs. Commercial paybacks are often under 3 years.

Question 9

Are there utility rebates for LED upgrades?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Pepco, BGE, and Dominion all offer commercial and multi-family LED rebates. We handle the paperwork.

Question 10

Will LEDs work with my Lutron or Leviton smart switches?

Accepted Answer

Yes — both brands maintain compatibility lists we cross-reference during specification.

LED Lighting Upgrades

What's included

Our process