Introduction:
LED streetlights, with their advanced technology, have become famous nowadays. Their wide use is due to their innovative features and energy efficiency. But sometimes these lights do not work efficiently due to some malfunctions. So, the question arises: What are the common LED street lights problems?
Knowing these problems is crucial for their better functioning. It also helps people cope better with those problems if they occur. Remember, these problems can be fixed, saving the cost of new LED lights. Are you curious about those issues? Fret not! This article will discuss some of the most common LED street lights problems. So, let’s get started!
Common LED Street lights Problems
LED streetlights use innovative technology, making them stand out. Most of us think that these advanced lights always work flawlessly, right? But this is a misconception. The section below will share some common problems with LED lights that might surprise you. So, let’s discuss them thoroughly.
1- Flickering or Dimming Lights
This is the most common problem with LED streetlights. Flickering of light affects the aesthetics of the place and the driving experience. It reduces visibility and causes trouble for persons with eye health issues. But what are the causes of the dimming of LED streetlights? The first and most common cause is voltage fluctuations.
Actually, LED streetlights work effectively when the voltage is constant. But sometimes, a sudden drop or rise in voltage occurs. This rise or fall of the voltage affects the electricity connection of LED lights. As a result, they do not work smoothly and start flickering.
Another important reason for this problem is the overloading of the circuit. If the circuit is overloaded with many LED lights, it becomes heated. This overheating damages the efficiency of LED lights and causes dimming. However, the other reasons are extreme weather conditions and poor electrical connections.
2- Overheating
Another reason LED streetlights do not work is overheating. Overheating LED lights creates serious safety issues, such as fire hazards. So, it is essential to understand the causes behind their overheating. Basically, LED lights have heat sinks or cooling systems that scatter the heat produced. But sometimes, this system stops working.
Due to this, extra heat accumulates at the junctions of LED lights and causes overheating. External temperature also causes overheating of LED lights. HOW? If your LED lights are in warmer areas, they are more heat-prone. Moreover, if you drive these lights constantly for a long time, the chances of overheating increase.
3- Color Shift
Imagine you buy an LED street light that emits a cool blue-white color. But with time, it starts emitting a warm yellowish color. This is called the color shift of LED light. This is another common problem that affects LED streetlights. Let’s try to understand the reason behind this problem. These LED streetlights are coated with phosphor.
Phosphor is responsible for giving these lights a definite color effect. Sometimes, the phosphor coating gets damaged due to overheating or extreme weather. Damage to this coating shifts the LED lights’ color from warm to cool or cool to warm. This issue can reduce visibility and deteriorate the uniformity of LED streetlights.
4- Water Ingress and Moisture Problems
As you know, LED streetlights are installed in outdoor spaces, so water ingress is a common problem for them. It is most common for LED lights in rainy and moist areas. Water ingress causes the corrosion of these lights and damages their structure. Almost all LED lights have a proper sealing system to prevent water from entering.
If this sealing system gets damaged, it cannot protect the lights. Moreover, cable entry points also contribute to water ingress. Therefore, these points should be appropriately sealed. Similarly, physical damage to LED streetlights enhances the chances of water seeping inside.
5- Glare Issues
Glare is the effect of bright streetlights, making it hard to see. This problem makes it very difficult for drivers and pedestrians to focus. If not checked, it can cause serious accidents. But what are the factors that raise glare issues in streetlights? This issue is due to improper light distribution.
Sometimes, LED streetlights are installed too high or too low, not evenly spreading the lights. Another reason is the absence of lenses in the streetlights. These lenses spread the light equally and enhance the focus of these lights. Moreover, many LED lights in less crowded areas can enhance glare.
6- Electromagnetic Interference
Before we discuss this issue, explain electromagnetic interference (EMI). EMI is the process in which electromagnetic waves from any nearby source come in contact with an electrical LED light source. These waves disturb the supply of electrical current and affect the functioning of streetlights.
If the LED streetlights are near transformers, they are more prone to EMI. Lightning in harsh weather conditions also enhances this issue. However, If LED streetlights are not adequately shielded, small radio waves from nearby transmitters can cause EMI.
How to Prevent LED Street Light Problems
Once you know those LED street lights problems, it is crucial to settle them. The section below will discuss some tips that will help you tackle those problems efficiently.
- To prevent glare, it is necessary to install LED streetlights properly. Make sure they are not too high or too low. Moreover, it would be best to avoid using more than enough lights in small areas.
- The quality of LED streetlights matters a lot. For example, use LED street lights with high-quality and innovative features. You should prefer a street light with an EMI-resistant shield. Furthermore, ensure these lights have good-quality heat sinks that can reduce extra heat.
- All LED streetlights come with an IP( ingress Protection) rating. This rating indicates their weatherproof capacity. So, choosing an LED light with a high IP rating is better. It will withstand harsh environmental conditions for a long time.
- To overcome the problem of flickering, you should use a voltage regulator. These regulators manage the incoming voltage. In case of a sudden rise in voltage, these regulators protect the LED streetlights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to leave LED streetlights on all night?
Yes, it is OK to leave LED lights on all night. But remember, overdriving can cause overheating of the LED street light. This problem reduces the lifespan of these lights. So, it is better to turn them off.
Can LED streetlights get wet?
Yes, LED lights can get wet. Water can seep into their internal parts and cause damage. Cable points are the primary source of water entry, so it is better to seal those points properly.
How do you protect LED streetlights from rain?
Specialized shields protect LED streetlights from rain. These shields are made of PVC or nylon and do not allow water to enter. In this way, you can protect your LED street light from water and moisture.
Conclusion
Several problems damage LED streetlights. This article discusses the most common issues that a street LED light faces. For example, flickering is caused by a sudden rise or fall of voltage. Overheating, glare, and color shifts are other common problems that affect the efficiency of an LED street light.
However, some simple tips can resolve these problems. For instance, you should use a lens to reduce glare. Moreover, a heat sink and cooling system remove the problem of overheating. Lastly, a good-quality LED light with innovative features is less prone to these problems.
