Low energy LED battens improve lighting quality

Tring Market Auctions dates back to 1832 and has operated independently since 1992. It is located 30 miles from both London and Oxford and hosts regular fine art and antique auctions. Its current buildings consist of a number of former cattle auction buildings that have been repurposed as characterful sales rooms. The existing lighting was standard T8 fluorescent tubes but the owners were looking for a more energy efficient solution that would also improve the customer experience.

Megaman’s Nero LED fittings are a cost-effective alternative to conventional T5 and T8 fluorescents. The 48W Nero battens were chosen based on a recommendation and supplied by a local wholesaler. The 4000K versions were installed in the four sales rooms as well as the connecting hallway to deliver a clean, bright, white light. Due to the higher quality of light produced by the new LEDs, the total number of fittings could be reduced without affecting the overall light levels.

Jo Burch, Saleroom Administrator at Tring Market Auctions, explained: “The new lighting has made a significant difference and many of the regular customers have commented on the improvement. We didn’t realise how poor the light really was until the fittings were replaced. We have also been able to reduce our energy usage due to the much lower power requirements of the LEDs.”

The tough polycarbonate body of the Nero is also IP66 rated for full protection against water and dust. This was an additional consideration for Tring Market Auctions as one of the areas is not fully insulated and as a result suffers from occasional moisture ingress. Furthermore, the Nero battens also ensured a simple installation with the option for surface mounted or suspended fixing as standard – both of which were required to suit the different areas of the building.

Denise Patrick, Business Development Manager for Greater London and East at Megaman UK commented: “This project highlights the versatility of the Nero product range. While commonly used in outdoor settings, it is equally at home in a character heritage building converted into a modern auction house. Carefully chosen for its efficiency and slimline, lightweight design, it is an ideal replacement for a conventional indoor T8 batten.”