Toronto’s Mosaic Salon recently completed an LED-light retrofit by replacing their old fluorescent and halogen bulbs to new LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs. They’re durable, bright, use less energy and last longer than compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Mosaic Salon co-owner, Robert Spizziri, explains what the retrofit involved and how it benefitted the business.

1. The Salon Looks Better and Brighter

“We were apprehensive at first because we didn’t know what it would mean for the look of our salon, but the truth is, we should have done this a long time ago,” says Spizziri on his first reaction when Green Circle Salons and Lighting Enhancement Corporation approached him. “The lighting is much brighter for haircutting. There’s no more eyestrain and our clients have told us that it gives the salon a more open, brighter look. To me, that’s the biggest asset of changing the lights–the ambiance of the salon has improved.”

2. Installation is Fast and Easy

One of the setbacks with a retrofit might be an interruption to everyday business as new equipment is being set up, and the total costs involved with a full installation. In Spizziri’s case, there was little to worry about: “The installation took less than one hour and the team was very helpful and professional. Our sales representative was very good at educating us about price points, on top of planning the project.

3. Eligibility for a Government Rebate

Many provincial government programs offer subsidy incentives for businesses that are converting to LED lighting. “Our sales reps even worked with us and the hydro company to give us the 52 per cent rebate,” says Spizziri. For example, the Ontario Power Authority’s Retrofit Program funds up 50 per cent of project costs. Contact your local electric utility to find out more.

The Bottom Line of Mosaic Salon’s LED Retrofit

Project cost: $2160

Monthly cost with LED system: $18

Monthly savings, compared to old lighting system: $125

Government subsidy: $1080 (50 per cent rebate)

Lifespan of LED bulbs: 7 years at 10 hours of daily usage

Total savings over lifespan of bulbs: $14, 355

Photo by Adam Brandon