Which LED lights can have their circuit boards or light sources replaced?

Welcome to the world of modern LED lighting! Perhaps you have already asked yourself why LED light sources not always replaceable, what you should look out for when buying them or how you can extend the service life of your LED lights extend the life of your LED lights. In this article, we get to the bottom of these and many other questions and provide clarity on the subject of LED lights.

LEDs have revolutionized the world of lighting. They are extremely efficient, durable, compact and flexible to use. Compared to conventional light sources such as halogen or energy-saving lamps, they consume significantly less electricity and offer a longer service life.

Advantages of LED lights:

• Energy-efficient: Up to 90 % less power consumption
• Extremely durable: service life of up to 50,000 hours
• Full light output immediately
• Wide range of designs possible
• Environmentally friendly (mercury-free)

In many modern LED luminaires, the light source is permanently installed. This is because LEDs are very compact and are often merged with the housing or cooling unit of the luminaire to form a single unit.

Reasons for permanently installed LEDs:

• Better thermal management
• More compact and elegant design
• Lower production costs

However, this means that replacement is often not possible in the event of a defect or at the end of its service life. However, this does not mean that you have to sacrifice sustainability - more on this below.

The LED board is the "heart" of the LED light. It contains:

• The light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
• Conductor tracks for the power supply
• Heat sink for heat dissipation
• Partly also electronic components for control

Depending on the design, this circuit board can be integrated as a replaceable module or permanently connected to the luminaire.

We have created a small table to give you a better overview:

This depends very much on the intended use and the budget:

Luminaires with replaceable LED light sources:

• Higher acquisition costs
• More sustainable in the long term
• Ideal for high-quality interior design
• Lower disposal costs as the entire luminaire does not have to be replaced

Luminaires with permanently installed LEDs:

• Cheaper to purchase
• More compact designs
• More suitable for budget or short-term solutions
• Still often economical in combination with regular replacement

For bargain hunters: If you have a limited budget, simple LED lights with permanently installed modules offer an attractive entry-level option. Especially with special offers or in the sale you will find many modern designs at a low price - ideal for rental apartments or temporary solutions.

Tip: Pay attention to the service life information and manufacturer's guarantees (e.g. 5 years for s.luce) to ensure high quality despite the low price.

When buying, you should pay attention to the following information:

• Product description: Does it say "bulb replaceable"?
• Socket type: Classic bases (e.g. E27, GU10) are always interchangeable
• Notes from the manufacturer: It is often explicitly stated whether the LED module is replaceable
• Accessibility: Can a light source or module be reached?

Our tip: In our online store you will find information on interchangeability in the technical data sheet for each luminaire.

• Lights with the socket:
  GU10
  E27
  G9 
  E14 
  
  Here you can decide for yourself which light source to use.

• Pay attention to good heat dissipation (e.g. aluminum housing)
• Use high-quality lights with branded LEDs
• Avoid constant switching on and off
• Use suitable dimmer (not every dimmer is LED-compatible!)
• Clean luminaires regularly to remove dust and dirt

Since the EU Ecodesign Regulation came into force in 2021:

Manufacturers must design luminaires in such a way that LED modules and electronic ballasts can be replaced by a specialist.

That means for you:

• Interchangeability is mandatory
• However not for all product groups (e.g. decorative lights)
• Replacement must be possible by specialist personnel, not necessarily by laypersons

• Interchangeability of light sources or circuit boards
• Warranty period (at least 2 years, preferably 5 years)
• Brand quality (e.g. s.luce)
• light color & color rendering (warm white for living areas, CRI >90)
• Dimmability (if desired)
• Design and functionality
• Sustainability & Repairability
• Price-performance ratio - especially decisive for inexpensive models

Your next step:

• Arrange a free consultation with our lighting designers
• Let us give you individual recommendations for your living situation
• Discover our own brand s.luce for stylish and sustainable lighting solutions

Light is not just light. It is atmosphere, function and design all in one - and we help you to find exactly the right light for your home.