The free LED upgrade: What you need to know
There’s no doubt about it – the days are getting darker. As we pass through the shortest day of the year, you’ll likely have started flicking on the lights earlier and earlier, adding a few extra figures to your electricity bill and making your carbon footprint that little bit larger.
While it might seem like there is little you can do to fight back the gloom, the reality is that LED lights offer a cheaper and more environmentally friendly way to light up your home in the winter months. The Victorian government even offers a scheme that can potentially net you them for free. Through the Victorian Energy Saver Incentive scheme, you might be eligible to get your old halogen downlights upgraded to the latest and greatest in lighting technology without a single cost.
LEDs are for more than just displays these days.However, because this service is offered through local businesses, you will quickly find that there are a few door-knockers on the prowl that might offer this upgrade – but aren’t actually accredited to do so. So why should you only use a registered installer, and how can you spot the unqualified?
Choosing the right installer
This service must be done by a professional in order to ensure safety, reliability and efficiency for your home.
If you are interested in the scheme, the easiest way to make these changes is to get in touch with a local accredited installer. “Switch On Victoria” has a list of every business that has proven that it is professionally capable of making these adjustments with a minimum of bother and maximum efficiency.
Because lighting is classified as a high risk activity by the Victorian Essential Services Commission, only licensed electricians are allowed to make these upgrades, and then only with approval. Replacing your halogen lights is not simply a matter of replacing the light bulbs – LEDs are fundamentally different, and this service must be done by a professional in order to ensure safety, reliability and efficiency.
Don’t use doorknockers
A lot goes into getting accredited for the VEET (Victorian Energy Efficiency Target) scheme. There are plenty of local businesses who have decided to get involved, so there’s no reason to rely on somebody that has not undertaken the registration process. It is also important to remember, that you can only get the free upgrade if you have 12 volt ceiling downlights, and only if performed by a registered business!
