Answering how to replace HID or MH shoebox and area lights with efficient LED retrofits, this guide compares five top options. Each kit is evaluated for suitability by fixture type, ease of installation, efficiency, and durability. Ideal buyers include facility managers seeking long-term energy savings, homeowners upgrading exterior lighting, and contractors replacing legacy HID systems with safer, lower-maintenance LEDs.
Summary Table
| Product | Type | Key Benefit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| BBESTLED 150W LED Retrofit Kit | Shoebox/Area Light Retrofit | High lumen output, 5000K daylight, ballast bypass ready | Parking lots, street lighting, large outdoor areas |
| OSTEK 150W LED Shoebox Retrofit Kit | Shoebox/Area Light Retrofit | High lumens, robust heat management, long life | Parking lots and outdoor street lighting |
| 120W LED Retrofit Kit — 16,200LM (LED Flying Direct) | Multi-Fixture Retrofit | Versatile base options, strong efficiency | High bays, shoebox, wall packs, flood lights |
| OSTEK 120W LED Shoebox Retrofit Kit | Shoebox/Area Light Retrofit | 16,200 LM, 135 lm/W, easy ballast bypass | Parking lots, tennis courts, street lighting |
| SplendidLLED 4FT LED Retrofit Kit (36W) | Troffer/Fluorescent Refit | Magnetic mounting, easy tool-free install | Office troffers, linear fixtures, cost-conscious upgrades |
BBESTLED 150W LED Retrofit Kit
Features indicate up to 140 lm/W, delivering about 21,000–21,400 lumens at 5000K. The kit is designed to bypass ballast, with ETL and DLC certifications cited for safety and reliability. It is best for large outdoor lighting applications such as parking lots and street corridors. Limitations include the need to confirm fixture size and ballast bypass prior to installation to avoid compatibility issues. Best for buyers seeking a high-clarity daylight color and substantial energy savings.
OSTEK 150W LED Shoebox Retrofit Kit
Best for high-output area lighting with strong heat dissipation and a long theoretical lifespan. The kit uses 135 lm/W output with 20260 total lumens and is designed to bypass ballast while mounting with an E39 Mogul base and U-bracket. It is well-suited for parking lots and street lighting. A limitation to watch is ensuring the fixture is compatible with ballast bypass and the E39 Mogul base footprint.
120W LED Retrofit Kit — 16,200LM (LED Flying Direct)
Best for versatile fixture compatibility, offering both E39 and E26 bases. It provides 16,200 lumens with 135 lm/W efficiency and up to 80+ CRI for accurate color rendering. The kit is easy to install with an adjustable U-bracket and ballast bypass guidance. It’s a solid choice for upgrading multiple fixture types, though care is needed to remove ballast and confirm the base configuration before installation.
OSTEK 120W LED Shoebox Retrofit Kit
Best for projects needing a balanced combination of brightness and efficiency. This kit delivers 16,200 lumens at 5000K with a 135 lm/W rating and uses ballast bypass with E39 Mogul compatibility. It is well-suited for parking lots, tennis courts, and street lighting. A potential limitation is ensuring the physical fit and heat management in fixed outdoor fixtures.
SplendidLLED 4FT LED Retrofit Kit (36W)
Best for office spaces and linear fixtures where budget is a priority. This kit offers 36W at 5000K with a 80% energy savings potential and a high lumen output relative to power consumption. It uses magnet mounting for quick installation in compatible troffers. Limitations include lower brightness compared with higher-watt options and the need for compatible fixture dimensions to ensure a secure fit.
Buying Guide
What should buyers consider when choosing HID to LED retrofit kits?
- Fixture compatibility: Confirm base type (E39 Mogul, E26), ballast bypass needs, and housing dimensions before purchase.
- Lumen and efficiency: Compare lumens per watt and total lumens to match the existing lighting area and desired brightness.
- Color temperature: Choose 5000K for daylight-like visibility or consider 4000K for more neutral lighting in work environments.
- Thermal management: Look for aluminum heat sinks, heat dissipation features, and optional fans to maximize lifespan in outdoor or hot locations.
- Certification and safety: ETL and DLC listings indicate compliance and reliability for commercial installations.
- Installation ease: Kits with ballast bypass and adjustable mounting brackets typically reduce installation time and complexity.
- Maintenance and durability: Long-rated lifespans (e.g., 500,000 hours) reduce maintenance cycles and replacement costs.
FAQ
- Are HID to LED retrofit kits ballast bypass ready?
Many kits are designed to bypass ballast, which is often required for direct replacement. Verify ballast bypass compatibility before installation.
- What base types do these retrofit kits support?
Common bases include E39 Mogul and E26. Check the product page to confirm base compatibility with your fixture.
- Is a high lumen kit always better for parking lots?
Higher lumens increase brightness but may require better glare management. Match lumens to area size and safety needs.
- Do these kits come with all mounting hardware?
Most kits include U brackets or magnetic mounting features; always review included accessories to avoid missing parts.
- How long do LED retrofit kits last compared with HID lamps?
LED retrofit kits typically offer lifespans well over 50,000 hours with reduced maintenance, while HID systems require more frequent replacements and ballast maintenance.
- Can I install these myself, or do I need a electrician?
Ballast bypass and fixture adaptation can be DIY-friendly with proper caution. Complex installations may benefit from professional guidance.