Meaning
Light output degradation measures the shift in wavelength or color output of a light-emitting diode over its operating life. Supply agreements specify the allowable spectral decay of retail lights to ensure they do not change color and ruin store displays. This measurement is limited to color shift and does not measure the total loss of brightness.
Performance Degradation
Visual consistency is critical for retail displays, where a shift in light color can make products look unappealing. High spectral decay can cause a white light to turn blue or pink over time. This ruins the store’s visual design.
Warranty Exposure
Warranty agreements for retail lighting contain specific clauses that are tied to color stability over a set period. If the spectral decay exceeds the agreed limits, the supplier must replace the defective lights and cover the cost of labor. This financial risk forces the manufacturer to use high-quality LEDs and drivers that maintain stable output.
If the lighting is not replaced quickly, the retailer can demand a reduction in the lease or supply agreement. This makes color stability a primary metric in commercial lighting contracts.
Contractual Penalty
Regular color audits are conducted to ensure that the lights meet the agreed specifications over time. This minimizes disputes between the supplier and the retailer.