The Metalux ST Series 4FT Linear LED Striplight is a versatile lighting solution designed for commercial and residential applications. Its energy-efficient design, compatibility with a wide voltage range, and durable construction make it a popular choice for replacing traditional fluorescent strip lighting systems. This article provides a detailed overview of the installation process, technical specifications, and key features of the Metalux 4FT LED Striplight, based on information from official product manuals and technical documentation.
Overview of the Metalux 4FT LED Striplight
The Metalux ST Series 4FT Linear LED Striplight is engineered to replace single or dual lamp fluorescent strip lighting systems. It offers high lumen output, a long warranty, and a range of mounting options, making it suitable for both new installations and retrofit applications. The product is available in 2FT, 4FT, and 8FT sizes, with the 4FT variant being particularly common for commercial and industrial environments due to its balance between coverage and energy efficiency.
According to the provided documentation, the 4FT LED Striplight features a dual lens design that ensures even light distribution and minimizes glare. It operates on a universal voltage range of 120–277V and is equipped with a non-dimming driver. The fixture is rated for 4200 lumens and 4000K color temperature, making it ideal for environments that require bright, neutral lighting such as offices, retail spaces, and warehouses.
The device supports multiple mounting types, including ceiling and surface mounts, and can be installed in continuous rows using an included aligner. A notable feature is the tool-free driver access, which simplifies the installation and maintenance process by allowing technicians to access the internal components without requiring additional tools or disassembling the entire fixture.
Installation Process and Requirements
The installation of the Metalux 4FT LED Striplight is designed to be straightforward, with several mounting options available to accommodate different environments and structural requirements. Below are the key steps and considerations for installing the device, based on the information provided in the source documents.
Mounting Options
The Metalux 4FT LED Striplight can be mounted using three primary methods: surface mount, chain mount, or toggle mount. Surface mounting is the most common method for ceiling or wall installations, and it involves securing the fixture directly to a flat surface using screws or mounting brackets. Chain mounting is typically used for suspended ceiling systems, where the fixture is hung from the ceiling grid using chains or wires. Toggle mounting allows for flexibility in positioning the light, particularly in environments where the fixture may need to be adjusted for height or angle.
The documentation also states that the 4FT LED Striplight can be mounted individually or in a continuous row. When installing multiple fixtures in a row, an aligner is included to ensure consistent spacing and alignment. This is particularly useful in large-scale installations where visual uniformity is important.
Electrical Requirements
The Metalux 4FT LED Striplight is designed to operate on a universal voltage input of 120–277V. This wide voltage range makes the fixture suitable for a variety of electrical systems, including standard residential and commercial wiring. The device does not support dimming and requires a non-dimming driver to function correctly.
Installation should begin with verifying that the electrical system is compatible with the fixture's voltage requirements. It is also important to ensure that the circuit is properly grounded and that all necessary safety precautions are followed during the installation process. The tool-free driver access feature allows for easy access to the internal components, which can be useful for troubleshooting or replacing the driver if necessary.
Step-by-Step Installation
While detailed installation instructions are not explicitly provided in the source materials, the documentation outlines several key elements that are essential for a successful installation. Based on this information, the following steps can be inferred for installing the Metalux 4FT LED Striplight:
Verify Electrical Compatibility: Confirm that the electrical system is compatible with the 120–277V input range of the fixture. Ensure that the circuit is properly grounded and that all safety precautions are followed.
Prepare the Mounting Surface: Clean and prepare the surface where the fixture will be installed. If mounting multiple fixtures in a row, use the included aligner to mark the positions for consistent alignment.
Mount the Fixtures: Secure the fixture to the surface using the appropriate mounting method (surface, chain, or toggle). Ensure that the mounting hardware is correctly installed and that the fixture is level and stable.
Connect the Electrical Wires: Connect the electrical wires according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Ensure that all connections are secure and that the wiring is properly insulated.
Test the Fixture: Once the fixture is mounted and wired, turn on the power and test the light to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
Repeat for Additional Fixtures: If installing multiple fixtures, repeat the process for each unit, using the aligner to maintain consistent spacing and alignment.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The Metalux 4FT LED Striplight is a high-performance lighting solution that offers a range of technical advantages over traditional fluorescent strip lighting systems. Below are the key technical specifications of the device, as outlined in the source materials.
Light Output and Efficiency
The 4FT LED Striplight produces a light output of 4200 lumens, with a color temperature of 4000K, which is considered a neutral white light suitable for most indoor environments. The fixture is also rated for 118 lumens per watt, indicating a high level of energy efficiency. This combination of high light output and low energy consumption makes the device an excellent choice for applications where energy savings are a priority.
The documentation also mentions that the fixture has a DLC (DesignLights Consortium) listing, which is an industry standard for high-performance lighting products. This certification indicates that the device meets rigorous performance and efficiency criteria, making it eligible for utility rebates and other incentives in certain regions.
Physical Dimensions and Design
The 4FT LED Striplight has a full-length and standard-width die-formed channel measuring 1.8 inches in width and 3.5 inches in height. This compact design allows the fixture to fit into standard lighting channels and ceiling grids without requiring significant modifications to the existing infrastructure.
The device is also designed with a tool-free driver access feature, which simplifies the installation and maintenance process. This design choice reduces the time and effort required for routine maintenance and makes it easier to replace or repair the driver if necessary.
Warranty and Compliance
The Metalux 4FT LED Striplight comes with a 5-year warranty, which provides peace of mind for both residential and commercial users. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, ensuring that the device will perform reliably over its expected lifespan.
The fixture is also compliant with a range of industry standards and regulations, including CSA (Canadian Standards Association) certification. This compliance ensures that the device meets safety and performance requirements for use in North American markets.
Compatibility and Integration
The Metalux 4FT LED Striplight is designed to be compatible with a wide range of existing lighting systems and control platforms. This compatibility makes it an attractive option for both new installations and retrofit applications.
Control Platform
The fixture is compatible with the Wireless SensorSwitch AIR control platform, which allows for remote monitoring and control of the lighting system. This integration enables users to adjust the lighting based on occupancy, time of day, or other environmental factors, further enhancing energy savings and convenience.
Dimming and Compatibility
Although the 4FT LED Striplight does not support dimming, it is compatible with 0–10V dimming protocols. This means that the fixture can be integrated into existing dimming systems, provided that the system is configured to operate in a non-dimming mode. This compatibility allows for seamless integration with other lighting fixtures and control systems, making it easier to manage lighting in large commercial or industrial environments.
Retrofit Applications
The 4FT LED Striplight is specifically designed for retrofit applications, where it can replace traditional fluorescent strip lighting systems without requiring significant modifications to the existing infrastructure. The fixture’s universal voltage range and mounting options make it compatible with a wide range of existing lighting systems, reducing the cost and complexity of the retrofit process.
Key Advantages and Use Cases
The Metalux 4FT LED Striplight offers several key advantages that make it an attractive choice for both residential and commercial applications. These advantages include energy efficiency, durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with existing lighting systems.
Energy Efficiency
With a high lumen output and low energy consumption, the 4FT LED Striplight is an energy-efficient lighting solution that can help reduce electricity bills and lower carbon emissions. The fixture’s DLC listing further reinforces its energy efficiency, making it eligible for utility rebates and other incentives in certain regions.
Durability and Longevity
The 4FT LED Striplight is built to last, with a 5-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. The fixture’s durable construction and high-quality components ensure that it will perform reliably over its expected lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and maintenance.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
The fixture’s tool-free driver access and multiple mounting options make it easy to install and maintain. The included aligner also simplifies the process of installing multiple fixtures in a row, ensuring consistent spacing and alignment. These features reduce the time and effort required for installation and maintenance, making the device an attractive option for both residential and commercial users.
Versatility
The 4FT LED Striplight is suitable for a wide range of environments, including offices, retail stores, warehouses, and other commercial spaces. Its high light output and neutral color temperature make it ideal for environments that require bright, even lighting. The fixture’s compatibility with existing lighting systems and control platforms also makes it a versatile choice for retrofit applications.
Conclusion
The Metalux 4FT LED Striplight is a high-performance lighting solution that offers a range of advantages over traditional fluorescent strip lighting systems. With its energy-efficient design, durable construction, and ease of installation, the device is an excellent choice for both residential and commercial applications. The fixture’s compatibility with existing lighting systems and control platforms further enhances its versatility, making it a practical option for retrofit projects.
The 4FT LED Striplight is also backed by a 5-year warranty and meets industry standards for performance and safety, ensuring that it will perform reliably over its expected lifespan. Whether used in new installations or retrofit applications, the device provides a reliable, energy-efficient lighting solution that can help reduce electricity costs and improve lighting quality.
For users looking to upgrade their lighting systems, the Metalux 4FT LED Striplight offers a cost-effective, long-term solution that delivers high performance and value.