LED Linear Retrofits
The fastest way to upgrade from fluorescent tubes. Fluorescent to LED retrofit kits are an easy-install, energy efficient alternative to fluorescent bulbs or older-model LED tubes. Improve your lighting today.
Common Questions About LED Linear Retrofits
Can magnetic LED strip lights replace fluorescent tubes?
Absolutely! LED strip lights are a versatile lighting solution that can effectively replace traditional fluorescent tubes. Our retrofit kits are designed precisely for this purpose, offering a hassle-free way to transition from fluorescent to LED technology.
Are LED strips good for lighting a room?
LED strip lights are not only suitable but also highly efficient for illuminating rooms. With their flexibility, you can install them along ceilings, walls, or under cabinets to create ambient and accent lighting, transforming the ambiance of any space.
What fixture types can Magnetic LED Strip Lights be used with?
Magnetic LED Strip Lights are highly versatile and can be used with various fixture types. They are compatible with linear lighting fixtures, troffers, and other similar configurations. Their magnetic design ensures a secure and convenient installation process, while also making them versatile for unique applications!
What are the best LED strips to get if I'm converting my troffers to LED?
When it comes to choosing the best LED strips, it's essential to consider factors like brightness, color temperature, and quality. Our Magnetic LED Strip Lights are crafted with superior materials, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. Explore our range to find the perfect fit for your lighting needs.
How to replace the tubes and ballast in a fluorescent light fixture with LED strips
Switching from fluorescent tubes to magnetic LED strips is easier than you might think. Our Fluorescent-to-LED Retrofit Kits come with comprehensive instructions, guiding you through the process step by step. Say goodbye to ballasts and complex wiring—our kits offer a direct and simplified approach to upgrade your lighting.
Do I need to bypass existing ballasts? If so, how do I bypass a ballast?
Yes, for LED retrofit kits, you need to bypass the ballast. Bypassing the ballast is a straightforward process:
- Turn off the power to the fixture.
- Disconnect the input power from the ballast.
- Remove the wires connecting the ballast to the tombstones (sockets).
- You can choose to leave the ballast in the fixture or remove it entirely, depending on your preference.
LED Strip Retrofit Kits Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to confidently upgrade fluorescent fixtures to energy-efficient LED strips.
Why Switch to LED Strip Retrofit Kits?
If you're dealing with outdated fluorescent lighting in office, classroom, warehouse, or retail ceilings, it's time to upgrade. LED strip retrofit kits provide a fast, cost-effective way to modernize your lighting without replacing entire fixtures.
These kits are magnetic, easily snapping into your existing troffers or strip housings and quickly providing:
- Better light quality
- Dramatically reduced energy use
- Lower maintenance needs
- Utility rebate eligibility*
They're one of the easiest answers to the common question: How can I switch to LED easily for drop ceiling lights?
*Available across most of the USA, but eligibility and rebate amounts vary by utility company. Contact our team to learn more.
What Is an LED Strip Retrofit Kit?
An LED retrofit strip kit is a bundled solution that converts a fluorescent fixture into an efficient LED luminaire. Most kits include:
- Magnetic LED light strips (typically 2 or 3 per fixture)
- Matched LED driver (often 0-10V dimmable)
- Quick connectors and hardware
- Optional emergency backup or sensor accessories
You install the strips and driver inside your existing fixture—no need for drywall cuts, ceiling tile work, or rewiring the whole space.
Which Fixtures Can Be Converted?
LED retrofit strip kits are compatible with many common commercial fixtures, including:
- 4ft and 8ft fluorescent strip lights
- 2x2 and 2x4 drop ceiling troffers
- Wraparound lights
- Linear low bay lighting in shops and warehouses
Whether you're using T12s in a warehouse or T8 troffers in an office, there’s likely a kit that fits your existing housing.
How to Easily Switch Troffers to LED
The most common upgrade scenario is retrofitting 2x2 or 2x4 fluorescent troffers in a suspended (drop) ceiling.
Here's how to do it:
- Turn off power and remove fluorescent tubes and the ballast
- Mount the magnetic LED strips directly inside the housings
- Connect the driver to your AC power line (bypassing the old ballast)
- Plug the LED strips into the driver
- Close the fixture and power it up
This makes it one of the simplest for easily switching troffers to be LEDs.
If it's hard to picture how LED strips install in a fluorescent fixture designed for tubes, our short video gives you a clear, step-by-step visual:
Benefits of Upgrading with LED Retrofit Kits
Significant Energy Savings
Typical projects cut energy use by 40-60% per fixture.
Minimal Disruption
Avoid ceiling work, fixture replacement, or long downtime—kits go in fast.
Better Light Quality
Flicker-free, high-CRI LED strips produce comfortable, even
illumination.
Long Lifespan
Most kits are rated for 50,000 hours or more—far outlasting fluorescents.
Lower Operating Costs
With fewer replacements, less labor, and lower energy bills,
retrofitting pays for itself quickly—especially with available rebates.
Real-World Results: School Cuts Lighting Costs by 92%
Villa Maria Academy Lower School in Malvern, PA had aging fluorescent troffers throughout its classrooms. The lighting was dim, inefficient, and costly to maintain.
With help from ELEDLights, the school installed LED magnetic strip kits in their existing 2x2 and 2x4 ceiling fixtures. Thanks to instant rebates from the local utility (PECO), they paid just $3 per fixture after incentives.
- 92% project cost savings
- Estimated $60,000 in annual energy savings
- Payback in less than 30 days
- Brighter, more comfortable classrooms
The school's lighting upgrade improved energy efficiency, reduced maintenance, and enhanced the learning environment—all without disrupting day-to-day operations.
Fluorescent to LED Conversion Kit Options by Size
We offer fluorescent to LED conversion kits for the following sizes:
2ft fluorescent to LED conversion kits
- Replacement for fluorescent 2ft or U-bend tubes
- Compatible with 2x2 troffers
- Great for hospitals, utility rooms, and fitness centers
4ft fluorescent to LED conversion kits
- Direct swap for standard 4-foot fluorescent tubes
- Compatible with 2x4 troffers and 1X4 troffers
- Great for offices, retail store aisles, and classrooms
8ft fluorescent to LED conversion kits
- Two 4ft kits can be used end-to-end, or a dedicated 8ft strip solution is available
- Compatible with 2X8 and 1x8 troffers
- Great for warehouses, garages, and work bays
Specific options for parabolic troffers are also available, which contain 3 strips for extra coverage.
Beyond Drop Ceilings: Unique Applications for LED Strip Kits
While most LED retrofit kits are installed in standard fluorescent troffers and strip fixtures, their slim profile, magnetic mounting, and clean light output make them ideal for creative and unconventional lighting upgrades too
Some unique applications include:
- Retail soffit lighting for corridors, alcoves, or merchandise walls
- Under-shelf task lighting in stockrooms or workshops
- Cove or indirect ceiling lighting in office reception areas
- Accent lighting in stairwells or between architectural elements
- Garage and workshop retrofits where aesthetics matter
- Or attach to any metal surfaces - trusses, the walls of steel buildings, metal shelving, refrigerators, production equipment, etc.
Customer Spotlight: Mall Corridor Soffit Retrofit
“I just started putting in the LED strips in the soffits in the mall corridor. I've attached a picture—they are great. These are the 3500K. Thanks for going out of your way to get this color for me.” — Cheryl (Verified Buyer)
This kind of project shows just how versatile LED strip retrofit kits can be. Whether you're reviving outdated fluorescents or looking to modernize nonstandard spaces, the modular nature and simple installation of these kits make them a smart choice.
Want to explore solutions for a creative application?
Our lighting experts are
happy to help you find the right configuration, color temperature, and layout for any space. Many of our strips
are made locally, are BAA compliant, and can be customized for unique locations.
How to Connect LED Strips
Installing and wiring a retrofit kit is simple:
- LED strips attach magnetically to the inside of the fixture housing
- The included driver connects to line voltage via standard hot/neutral/ground wires
- Quick-connect plugs link the strips to the driver
Most kits also support 0-10V dimming, which means they can be paired with compatible dimmers to maximize energy savings.
Do LED Strips Get Hot?
No—LED strips stay cool to the touch, especially compared to fluorescent tubes or HID lighting.
They generate minimal heat, and their aluminum backing helps dissipate what little heat is produced. This cooler operation helps extend the life of both the driver and the strips themselves.
When Were LED Light Strips Invented?
While LED technology has been around since the 1960s, rigid LED strip lighting began seeing commercial adoption in the early 2000s. Magnetic retrofit kits began appearing soon after, as demand grew for efficient replacements in commercial ceilings.
Today, LED strips are brighter, more efficient, and easier to install than ever—and retrofit kits are one of the most accessible ways to bring that technology into older buildings.
How Bright Are Retrofit LED Kits Compared to Fluorescents?
When comparing brightness, it is important to focus on lumens (rather than watts). When comparing energy efficiency, it's important to compare the watts (W). Here's how LED stacks up to fluorescent:
Because LED light is directional (vs 360° fluorescent), you get more usable light at lower wattages.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Real-world LED brightness often appears equal or better than higher-lumen fluorescent setups.
- Fluorescent lamps degrade quickly: Light output drops 15-30% over time.
- LEDs are directional, delivering more usable light to your space.
- Fluorescents emit 360° light, much of which is lost inside the fixture.
Color Temperature Options for LED Strips
Most LED strip kits come in multiple CCT (color temperature) options:
Plus, many kits are CCT selectable, letting you choose at install!
Fluorescent Light to LED Conversion Kit vs New Fixtures
In addition to retrofit solutions, we also offer LED Panel Lights & Troffers, as well as other fixtures, to fully replace outdated models with LED versions. See the pros and cons for retrofitting versus replacing:
LED Retrofit Kits:
- Faster install
- Lower cost
- Works with existing fixtures
- Great for occupied spaces
New Fixtures:
- Cleaner look
- Upgraded housing
- Best for damaged or outdated fixtures
💡Not sure which route is right for you? Our team can assess your current fixtures and recommend the best solution.
Rebates & Incentives for LED Retrofit Projects
Most utility providers offer rebates for converting from fluorescent to LED lighting. In many cases:
- Retrofit kits can qualify (DLC-listed models)
- Incentives can cover up to 99% of project cost
- We'll help you find and file for all applicable rebates
Just send us your zip code and project details, and we'll handle the rest.
Get Help with Your LED Retrofit Project
If you're wondering:
- How many retrofit kits do I need?
- Which kit works with my fixture type?
- How do I connect LED strips safely?
We're here to help! Reach out to our team of experts and see how our services set us apart.
Call: 215-355-7200
Text: 215-355-7200
Email: lights@eledlights.com