Light emitting diodes (LEDs) have become more common in both residential and commercial interior design. The typical house power is 110v AC of high voltage. LEDs are low voltage with a typical 24 volts DC. Despite their advantages, LEDs still require a transformer or driver. Transformers result in heat and heat equals inefficiency. This may be a significant factor, especially in the ceiling. In addition, even with advances in the technology, LEDs have some level of color degradation, similar to a fluorescent. The color degradation is LEDs are less apparent because the rated of degradation is slower. However, the light from an LED won’t look the same in a few years.

Although the word ‘transformers’ are preferred, transformers are also known as ‘drivers.’ Almost all lighting companies do not manufacture transformers. Despite this, every LED has a built-in transformer. Transformers are typically measured in voltage and wattage. Most manufacturers build a buffer into the stated or required transformer size. Using a transformer ‘bank’ is a good idea, even for residential spaces. A small bank is more reliable than in the ceiling and helps avoid any issues with heat in the ceiling.

LEDs are only available in red, green, and blue (RGB) light. Typically these lights do not dim, only switching between on and off. For decades, only red and green were available in LEDs. However, in 2014, a trio of scientist in Japan and the U. S. won the Nobel Prize for physics by introducing the blue LED. With the blue, LEDs are now capable of the red, green, and blue (RGB) combination to make white light. Despite this, there is no white LED. The RGB combination makes a relatively white light, but is not as white as other comparable fixtures. LEDs also have other issues with the color, dimming, and ease of use. A bank of switches helps increase the ease of use on wall areas.

Time results in the illusion of less output since transformers cannot turn on and off quickly. Most transformers today are electronic. An example of this is any phone charger. Electronic transformers need a certain amount of power to turn on. After selecting the transformer, the next step is selection of the dimmer. Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) gives more flexibility in the use of the dimmer. In addition, individual control of the diodes allows for more intensity and color control.

Good fixture practices helps result in successful lighting projects using LEDs. Use ‘true’ low voltage fixtures without built-in transformers or drivers. Run low voltage wire. Run at least four conductor wires. Centralize transformer(s). Dim via time using PWM. Do not accept cascading switching for the wall switch to the floor lamp. Installer should have experience in low voltage LEDs. Use color control for circadian rhythm. Develop focus and entertain using RGB functions in multiple areas. Consider using a lighting designer. Consider using an integrator. Integrators were previously known as audiovisual (AV) technicians, but now this is considered by some too limiting a term. For new construction, use new fixtures for LED bulbs, unless it is more difficult to change existing incandescent fixtures.

The layout of LEDs and gangs has some complexity. A gang is one dimmer or one outlet. Despite this, if you have to take notes, it’s probably not done correctly. There should be a maximum of 2 gangs. Scene based control is also a good option. Avoid wireless in new construction. Wireless is usually a better option for a retrofit. In a retrofit, an expert can help create a really good wire layout that can bypass the high voltage dimmers.

In addition, don’t use a high voltage dimmer on a low voltage fixture. Incandescent fixtures may use MLV, ELV, and high voltage dimmers. Even with using wireless in a retrofit, all the elements need a wire, unless an item runs on battery. For renovation, new construction, and external transformers; run low voltage wire for low voltage fixtures.