Boating Basics: Shopping for T-Top LED Lights

In this series, Boating Basics, we'll talk about a variety of introductory topics related to must-have accessories and other products commonly found on boats. If you have a topic you'd like covered or questions, comment below. In today's Boating Basics, we'll talk about what features to look for when shopping for T-Top LED Lights.

When buying T-Top LED lights, there are several important features to consider. Here are some of the best features to look for:

1. Brightness: The brightness of the LED lights is a crucial factor. Look for lights with high lumens output to ensure they provide ample illumination for your needs. Consider the application and the lighting requirements to determine the appropriate brightness level. Our TACO T-Top LED Tube Lights have 300 lumens of white light and 150 lumens of color light.
2. Energy Efficiency: LED lights are known for their energy efficiency. Check for lights that have a high energy efficiency rating, such as an Energy Star certification, which indicates they consume less power while delivering optimal brightness. Our T-Top LED Tube Lights have a low draw of less than .5 amps.
3. Durability and Weather Resistance: T-Top LED lights are typically used in outdoor settings, so it's important to choose lights that are durable and weather-resistant. Look for lights with sturdy construction, corrosion-resistant materials, and appropriate IP (Ingress Protection) ratings that indicate their resistance to dust and water. Because our lights are primarily used on boat T-Tops, our LED Tube Lights have an IP67-waterproof rating.
4. Adjustable Mounting Options: Ensure the LED lights come with adjustable mounting options or a versatile bracket system that allows you to easily install them on T-Tops or other structures. This flexibility enables you to position the lights for optimal illumination and coverage.
5. Beam Angle: Consider the beam angle of the LED lights. A wider beam angle provides more coverage, while a narrower angle creates a focused and concentrated beam. Determine your specific lighting needs and choose a beam angle that suits your requirements.
6. Color Temperature: LED lights come in various color temperatures, ranging from warm white to cool white. Consider the ambiance you want to create and select a color temperature that aligns with your preferences. For example, warmer color temperatures (around 2700K-3000K) create a cozy atmosphere, while cooler temperatures (5000K or above) provide a daylight-like illumination. At TACO, we offer T-Top LED Tube Lights in white/red and white/blue color combinations that can easily be toggled back and forth, depending on your preferences and needs. Our bright LED Lights enable better visibility onboard, which is crucial for safety.
7. Dimmability: If you prefer adjustable lighting levels, look for LED lights that offer dimming capabilities. Dimmable lights allow you to control the brightness according to your preferences, creating a more versatile lighting setup. Because our LED Tube Lights come in two color combinations, it's easy to switch from bright white to a warmer red or blue.
8. Longevity: LED lights are known for their long lifespan. Check the manufacturer's specifications for the estimated lifespan of the lights. Longer lifespan ensures reduced maintenance costs and fewer replacements over time.
9. Warranty and Customer Support: Consider the warranty provided by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period demonstrates the manufacturer's confidence in the product's quality. Additionally, ensure there is reliable customer support available in case you have any questions or issues with the lights. At TACO, we are proud to offer a 1-year warranty on our T-Top LED Tube Lights as well as excellent customer support.

In addition to T-Top LED Tube Lights, we also offer reliable and attractive LED Deck Lights and LED Navigation Lights for boats. Shop our entire product line of LED Lights here. Use cod TACOGPT for 10% off at checkout exclusively on tacomarine.com. For questions about our LED Lights, comment on this blog below.