As fluorescent lamps are being phased out, converting old mirror cabinets to work with LED bulbs has become increasingly relevant. Nearly all light fixtures that use fluorescent tubes or compact fluorescent lamps require modification work by a qualified electrician before LED bulbs can be used safely.
We recommend having the necessary mirror cabinet modification work made before replacing the existing bulb with an LED model.
Converting mirror lights to LED lights
If your light fixture uses a traditional T8 fluorescent tube, there may be a compatible LED tube available that works with the existing setup without any modifications. However, for a more efficient, safer, and better-performing solution with lower energy consumption, we recommend having the fixture or mirror cabinet professionally modified for LED use.
If your fixture uses T5 fluorescent tubes or compact fluorescent lamps, switching to LED bulbs will almost always require modification work to ensure the LED bulb functions properly. During the conversion, the ballast is removed from the fixture. Any modification work on a mirror cabinet should always be carried out by a qualified electrician.
Reading tip: LED tube as a replacement for a fluorescent tube
Mirror cabinet lighting can also be replaced with LED strip lighting. This makes it possible to create lighting with smoothly adjustable color temperature, ranging from warm to cool white light.
During the modification, the ballast is replaced with a driver that is suitable for LED strips. Photos of the fixture frame and the intended mounting location for the lighting help estimate the installation time.
Replacing the 12V spotlights in a mirror cabinet with LED lighting is usually easiest by replacing the fixtures entirely. Small spotlight fixtures are relatively affordable, which often makes replacing the fixture a more practical option than modifying the existing one.
It is also possible to use 12V LED bulbs in the old fixture, but in most cases the old AC driver must be replaced with a DC driver compatible with LED bulbs. Driver replacement should always be carried out by a qualified electrician.
Product tip: LUMO Spotlight Set – Cabinet Light
What does mirror cabinet modification work cost?
The time required depends on the structure of the mirror cabinet. If all components are easily accessible, the work can usually be completed quickly. In most cases, having the mirror cabinet professionally modified is worthwhile, as it saves both time and money by allowing you to keep the existing cabinet instead of replacing it.
Typically, the modification work we carry out on mirror cabinets has been billed as a two-hour job when performed at the customer’s home. This usually includes both the installation work itself as well as travel time to and from the site. LedStore’s installation service is available within approximately a 50 km radius of Koivuhaka, Vantaa.
Average estimated times (travel time not included):
- Modifying a mirror cabinet with a single fluorescent tube typically takes approximately 30 minutes.
- If the mirror cabinet has two vertically mounted fluorescent tubes, the work is most often completed within about an hour.
- If the old metal housing is fitted with a 230V LED strip, the work can usually be completed within about an hour. If the structure is more complex and, for example, an adjustable color temperature LED strip (24V) is installed instead, the installation time may be around two hours.
- Replacing mirror cabinet spotlights with LED spotlights has typically taken from 30 minutes to two hours. The installation time depends on factors such as the size of the mounting openings, the location of the drivers inside the mirror cabinet structure, and the positioning of the electrical wiring.
The duration of all modification work is assessed before the installation begins. We always bill installation work based on the actual hours spent, after the work has been completed.
At the time of writing, our electrical installation rate is €65/hour including VAT. You can find our latest pricing on our installation service page.
Things to consider
Component condition
It’s always important to check that the fixture components are still in good condition and that, for example, the bulb sockets or mounts haven’t become brittle over time. Deteriorated parts like these are commonly found in bathroom ceiling lights and when replacing fluorescent tubes in older mirror cabinets.
In some cases, replacing the entire fixture with a new one is both easier and more cost-effective than trying to modernize an old fixture that is already nearing the end of its lifespan.
Take photos and measurements
We always recommend taking photos of the mirror cabinet or light fixture before any modification work is carried out. Measure the size and depth of the spotlight mounting opening, and provide at least approximate dimensions of the mirror cabinet itself.
Photos of the power supply connections, the driver, and the light source help us provide the best recommendation for updating the lighting. Based on this information, we can also estimate the installation time required.
Site location
Where will the modification work be carried out? The location of the site affects the installation cost, as we bill based on the total working time, including travel time to and from the site.
Please include the project address in your quote request, as it helps us estimate the time required for the work.
If the old fixture is easy to remove yourself, you can bring it to our store and ask for a cost estimate for the modification work. In some cases, the work can be completed while you wait, but most often there is a queue for repair services and the work is completed within 2–5 business days.
LedStore at your service
If you need help updating your lighting, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We provide installation services within a 50 km radius of our Vantaa store, while lighting consultation and design services can also be handled remotely.
We’re happy to help with lighting upgrades for spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms!
