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Reduce, reuse and recycle

Retrofit solutions

Why retrofit

As awareness around waste reduction and product circularity grows, retrofitting is becoming an increasingly popular solution; it can also be an economically effective way of modernising an outdated lighting system.

Besides reducing waste by re-engineering existing luminaire components, retrofitting lighting systems with energy-efficient LEDs cuts greenhouse gas emissions, and can also improve visibility, comfort, and light quality. Further benefits include lower maintenance requirements, longer lifespan and improved durability. Integrating intelligent lighting controls results in efficient usage management, further reducing energy consumption.

A retrofit lighting solution can provide numerous benefits, such as economic savings, lower environmental impact, and improved lighting performance.

Thorlux Lighting offers a complete retrofitting service to convert existing non-LED light fittings or to upgrade older LED luminaires to the latest energy-saving technology. Thorlux has a long history of providing retrofit and custom lighting solutions. The company’s flexibility, experience and in-house manufacturing enable its engineers to implement lighting solutions that balance environmental, aesthetic, and economic considerations.

Old and new - the best of both

Clients often want to keep their existing structure and light fittings in place; Thorlux can provide tailored retrofits to replace the outdated components and re-engineer the light’s chassis to keep it in service. Thorlux can also manufacture bespoke LED circuit boards if required.

A renovated lighting scheme must provide sufficient light levels and uniformity across a space. When restricted by a point-for-point replacement scheme, the retrofit solution must suit the space and provide the right lighting performance. With careful design and consideration, modern LED and optical technology can significantly improve lighting performance, even while working under the restrictions of a lighting layout that is many years old.

Bringing vintage lighting into the 21st Century

Incorporating Thorlux SmartScan controls into a retrofitted luminaire increases energy efficiency even further. Unlike other, two-core wired communication systems, SmartScan is a completely wireless solution, making it ideal for retrofit applications with no additional wiring needed.

To preserve original luminaire styles and characteristics, SmartScan Radar sensors can be used. Using a high frequency sensor integral to the luminaire means energy savings through presence detection can still be achieved, without the need to drill or modify the luminaire to accommodate a standard sensor.

The retrofitting process

A Thorlux retrofit project begins with a comprehensive site survey, noting current luminaire types and locations, emergency exit signage, natural light inlets, existing lighting controls, and more. With this information, the team can make accurate energy calculations and establish what the retrofitted solution needs to achieve.

If possible, engineers bring sample units to Thorlux so retrofit LED gear trays and components can be developed. Where this is not possible, Thorlux will examine and take detailed measurements of the fittings in situ. In either case, measurements must be exacting to ensure a seamless combination of the old and the new.

Once the solution has been developed and has received customer approval, Thorlux will manufacture the retrofit solution and any new fixing components required at its Redditch, Worcestershire factory. The company’s UK manufacturing base gives it unrivalled flexibility for retrofit projects of any scale.

Finally, Thorlux offers a turnkey service where installation and full project management can be provided.

Considering a retrofitting project?

To talk to your local Thorlux representative, contact us today
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Explore Thorlux’s most recent retrofit solutions

Loxley House, Nottingham
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Rhind Building, University of London
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Aston University Library, Birmingham
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Stock retrofit gear trays

Thorlux Lighting provides a variety of standard retrofit kits for longstanding products such as Dot, Light Line, Passlight, Prismalux, Prismalette, A-Line and Pitlight. Upgrading this way grants all the benefits of the latest LED technology, including increased lamp life and improved energy efficiency, whilst retaining the original body and fixed wiring.

Engineers can often perform these upgrades without removing the luminaire from the wall or ceiling making retrofitting both quick and easy.

View our retrofit products
A good retrofitting solution must be practical, effective, and efficient, with improved light output and safety features. It can also be the most circular and sustainable method of relighting a space.

Retrofit product installation

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