What is the difference between a standard downlight and an integrated modular (IC Rated) downlight? And, are they free to upgrade?
We have written before about what an IC Rated downlight, or integrated modular lamp is – it’s considered a premium downlight and is suitable for homes or businesses. The biggest positives about these lamps are their clean, minimalist aesthetic and their suitability for use in close contact to insulation which is definitely not the case with standard downlights.
As energy costs increase annually and we’re now looking at some of the highest energy costs in the world, many Victorians are investing in energy-efficiency upgrades like insulation, so preparing your light fittings to accommodation for insulation is a great idea.
Please note: As of 1st February 2023, FREE Lighting upgrades are no longer available for Victorian homes. This is in accordance with the Victorian Energy Upgrades program (VEU).
As one of the largest providers of free LED upgrades across Victoria through the VEU program, we’re often asked:
Whilst they are partially subsidised if you are upgrading from halogen to IC Rated, they’re not fully covered.
per lamp = $33 when upgrading an existing downlight to an LED.
If you already have an LED fitting in place but want to upgrade to it a premium integrated modular lamp this doesn’t include a VEU rebate, unfortunately. This is because the fitting you have in place already has the most energy-efficient globe and upgrading the fitting does not decrease the carbon emitted or reduce your energy costs.
Whilst upgrading to an IC Rated light is not the cheapest option when you can upgrade to LED for free, you need to consider the wider picture before writing them off. If you want to install insulation in your home that will rest closely alongside your downlights, IC Rated might be essential for you. And, if standard downlights don’t work with the aesthetic of your home or business, then integrated modular lamps could also be a better option.
Below we’ve supplied a handy before and after so you can see the effect that an IC Rated downlight has compared to a standard LED downlight.
If you would like a quote to upgrade your home or business to LED and/or to integrated modular downlight fittings, we can help!
Please note: As of 1st February 2023, FREE Lighting upgrades are no longer available for Victorian homes. This is in accordance with the Victorian Energy Upgrades program (VEU).
They look very similar but modulated lamps (IC Rated) can sit closer to roof insulation, they have a clean, minimalist aesthetic and they're more efficient than typical MR16 LED downlights.
Unfortunately they're not included in the full VEU scheme subsidies so there is a co-payment required.
Should you make the step and upgrade to LED? Are LEDs more energy efficient than other globes and if so, why? Find out here.
We answer the question - are LEDs more efficient that CFLs and is it worth your time upgrading your property from CFL to LED?
Do you already have LEDs at home? Here's how you can tell if your lights are already LED and energy efficient.
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