Upgrade and optimize your lighting systems in schools, hospitals, offices, and other commercial spaces by seamlessly replacing outdated fluorescent fixtures with efficient and cost-effective LED panels and LED troffer lights. With a range of sizes available and color temperature options ranging from 3000 Kelvin to 5000 Kelvin, you can tailor your lighting solution to meet the specific needs of your space.

For added versatility and control, consider selecting dimmable LED panels and troffers that are compatible with 0-10V dimmer switches. By integrating motion sensors, you can further customize lighting levels and maximize energy savings. In the event of a power outage, opt for fixtures that come with a pre-installed emergency backup, ensuring uninterrupted illumination for up to 90 minutes.

What are LED Troffers?

Troffers are the traditional drop-ceiling fixture used in offices, conference rooms, and other commercial applications. Available in a variety of sizes (2'x4', 2'x2', and 1'x4'), these fixtures are easily recognizable due to their center basket which can house fluorescent tubes, LED tubes, or LED diodes. LED troffer lights work by directing most of the light output into the sides and back of the fixture, then reflecting it down to the ground. This helps reduce glare and ensure that the light output is uniform.

When compared to traditional fluorescent troffers, LED troffers have longer lifespans and consume less power, thereby saving money on maintenance and energy costs. Plus, our LED troffer lights use integrated LED diodes, meaning there are no lamps to replace.

LED vs LED Ready Troffers

Many of our LED troffers use integrated LEDs, meaning the LED arrays are built in and not replaceable. The diodes in these fixtures are designed with a specific Kelvin color temperature and lumen output, and once they reach the end of their life, the fixture must be replaced. LED ready troffers use single-ended LED T8 tubes that are sold separately. This allows you to customize the light output and easily change it later as the needs of your space change.

What are LED Panel Lights?

LED panels are incredibly thin ceiling lights available in 2'x4', 2'x2', and 1'x4' sizes. Their thin design makes them ideal for shallow ceilings, and they are lightweight enough to allow for one-person installation, reducing labor costs. Sold individually or in packs, these fixtures come on instantly to full brightness without needing a warmup period and feature a shatter-resistant lens.

Designed primarily for drop-ceilings or drywall ceilings, these LED panels are remarkably easy to install. Once the integrated LED driver has been properly wired, tabs on the back of the fixture must be bent for the panel light to hang directly from the drop ceiling. For greater versatility, some LED panels may also be suspended or surface-mounted with the right mounting hardware or kits.

Edge-Lit vs. Back-Lit LED Panels

LED panel lights are available as either edge-lit or back-lit. Edge-lit panels have LED strips placed along the edges of the fixture. Using a guide panel, the light is directed into a diffuser that evenly distributes the light output. This gives edge-lit panels a slimmer profile. Back-lit LED panels, on the other hand, place LED diodes in rows across the back of the fixture cavity. The light is channeled directly into the lens, providing uniform illumination. The back-lit fixtures have a slightly larger profile than edge-lit panels.

Selectable LED Panel Fixtures

Ideal for both new construction and remodeling, selectable led panels allow you to set the light output, set a color temperature, or set both during installation. These LED panels and troffers have one or two switches, usually located on the back of the fixture. Just keep in mind that if you need to adjust the settings after installation, you will need to unmount the fixture to access the controls.

Understanding Kelvin Color Temperature

When choosing LED panel and troffer lights for your application, be sure to pay attention to the color temperature of the fixtures. Color temperature, measured in Kelvin, is the color of the light produced by the fixture. If you prefer the light of halogen lamps, pick a fixture that produces a warmer light around 3000 Kelvin. For testing rooms, hospitals, and dentist offices, studies have shown that a cooler white Kelvin temperature around 4000 is better for visibility, focus, alertness, and productivity.

LED Panel and LED Troffer FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about panels and troffers.

What is the difference between LED panels and LED troffers?

• The main differences between LED panels and troffers is their size and appearance. LED panel lights are thin, flat panels. LED troffers are bulkier and have a center basket.

What types of ceilings are LED panels and troffers designed for?

• Both LED panels and troffers are designed for use in drop-grid ceilings. Some fixtures, however, can be surface mounted with paired with compatible kits (sold separately).

Can LED panels and troffers be surface mounted?

• Some LED troffer lights and LED panels can be surface mounted with compatible kits (sold separately). For help finding surface mount fixtures and compatible kits, please call 1-800-624-4488 to speak with one of our lighting experts.

Are LED panels and LED troffers more energy-efficient than traditional fluorescent fixtures?

• Absolutely! LED panels and LED troffers offer significant energy savings compared to traditional fluorescent fixtures. They utilize advanced LED technology which is known for its high efficiency and long lifespan. LED lighting can reduce energy consumption by up to 50% or more, resulting in lower electricity bills and reduced environmental impact.

What is an edge-lit LED panel?

• Edge-lit LED panel lights have LEDs lining the edges of the fixture. The light is directed into a diffuser to evenly distribute the output.

What is a back-lit LED panel?

• Back-lit LED panels have rows of LED diodes across the back of the fixture cavity. The light output is channeled directly into the lens.

How long to LED panels and troffer fixtures last.

• Depending on the fixture, LED panels and troffers can last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 hours on average.

For additional assistance in deciding on the proper fixtures and accessories, call 1-800-624-4488 to speak with an experienced 1000Bulbs.com lighting expert.