When to use LED Retrofit Kits v.s. LED Post Tops

First, let’s make sure we set the score right. We sell both. We sell LED Post Tops and we sell LED Retrofit Kits. We are not Post Top biased or Retrofit Kit biased. We even sell new fixtures. We have no biases! We want what is right for you!

So, what is a LED Post Top Retrofit Bulb?

A LED Post Top Retrofit Bulb is a bulb that produces light in 360 degrees. It acts like a light bulb. It send light in every direction. That is why it is the perfect solution for a Acorn Pole Top Light

The LED’s create a 360-degree distribution pattern. There are even LEDs at the top of the bulb to light the top of the acorn lens up. The driver is contained in the bottom part of the fixture, and it takes power from the socket. When replacing a metal halide or high-pressure sodium bulb, you need to remove or bypass the existing ballast 

So what is a LED Retrofit Kit?

A LED retrofit kit is a directional light. It contains a LED Head (shown), an external driver and a series of mounting plates to replace the metal halide bulb, ballast and socket inside the existing fixture. Retrofitting is easy and simple to do. Once you’ve done the first fixture, the rest take very little time to retrofit.

The light is directional. So in a parking lot light or high bay, it makes sense to direct the light to where it is needed. A post top bulb needs a reflector to gather the light and direct it to where it is needed.  That is not efficient. And so a LED Retrofit kit is far more efficient and brighter than a post top bulb. Lumen for lumen, it would be about 30% brighter.

So both bulbs are good. Both are designed to do a specific job. You just need to understand when its best to use a post top and when it is best to use a retrofit kit. If you have any more questions about retrofitting and post tops, just contact our team and we’ll get back to you.

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