4FT and 8FT LED Linear Strip Lights: A Practical Guide for Contractors

Commercial lighting needs to work for the building, the people using it and the project budget. A fixture that offers adjustable power and light color gives contractors more flexibility when planning installations across different rooms or work areas.

This LED linear strip light series combines four wattage settings, five color temperatures and 0–10V dimming in a slim, matte white fixture. Available in 4FT and 8FT models, it gives contractors and facility managers options for indoor lighting upgrades without choosing a separate fixed-output model for every area.

Here is what to know before selecting fixtures, preparing a quote or placing a commercial order.

Choose the right size and light output

The 4FT LED fixture offers four settings: 20W at 2,600 lumens, 30W at 3,900 lumens, 40W at 5,200 lumens and 50W at 6,500 lumens.

The 8FT LED linear strip light fixture offers 50W at 6,500 lumens, 64W at 8,320 lumens, 70W at 9,100 lumens and 80W at 10,400 lumens.

Both models are rated at 130 lumens per watt. Watts describe power consumption, while lumens describe light output. Use both figures when comparing fixtures and estimating operating costs.

The 4FT fixture measures approximately 48.11 × 2.92 × 3.31 inches and weighs 3.2 pounds. The 8FT fixture measures approximately 95.28 × 2.92 × 3.31 inches and weighs 6.3 pounds. Confirm dimension orientation and mounting locations against the manufacturer's drawing before installation.

The shorter fixture may fit better where space is limited. The longer model offers higher maximum output. The right choice depends on the room layout, mounting height and light needed at the work surface.

Why selectable wattage helps on commercial projects

Different areas of a building rarely need exactly the same lighting. A storage area, service counter and workbench may have different requirements even when they use the same fixture style.

Selectable wattage allows the installer to choose from four power levels on the selected model. This can simplify purchasing and reduce the need to stock several fixed-wattage versions.

Choose the lowest setting that meets the lighting design. Maximum wattage should be a response to the required light level, not an automatic choice. Confirm the result in a sample area before repeating the setup across a large installation.

Record the approved settings for each area. That makes future replacement and maintenance more consistent.

Five color temperatures in one fixture

Both sizes offer 3000K, 3500K, 4000K, 5000K and 6500K. This is what “5CCT” means: five selectable white-light color temperatures.

3000K produces a warm white appearance. 3500K is a slightly less warm option, while 4000K gives a neutral white appearance.

5000K looks cooler and more daylight-like. 6500K has an even cooler appearance. Compare these settings in the actual room, especially where occupants spend long periods under the lights.

A higher Kelvin number does not automatically mean higher light output. Choose color temperature for appearance and comfort, then choose wattage and fixture quantity for the required illumination.

The specification lists CRI greater than 80, a measure of color rendering. If the customer performs color-critical work, such as print matching or detailed product inspection, check whether the project's color-quality requirements call for a different fixture.

Treat CCT selection as a fixture setting. The 0–10V dimming function should not be assumed to change the light color.

Suitable spaces and environmental limits

For dry indoor areas, this type of linear fixture can be considered for stockrooms, workshops, retail support areas, utility spaces and commercial garages. Final suitability depends on the lighting design and site conditions.

In storage aisles, focus on visibility around shelves and racks. In workshops, check the light reaching benches and equipment. In occupied support areas, also consider glare and reflections.

The listed environmental rating is IP20. Plan for protected indoor use; the fixture has no rated water protection. It should not be selected for exposed outdoor or washdown use on the basis of this rating.

The operating temperature range is −4°F to 104°F (−20°C to 40°C). Check the temperature at the mounting location, particularly near roofs, machinery or other heat sources.

For high ceilings, compare this fixture's light distribution with a suitable high-bay option. An 8FT body alone does not establish that it will provide enough light at floor level.

How many fixtures will your project need?

Fixture count depends on room size, mounting height, required light levels and obstructions. There is no single coverage figure that works for every installation.

Measure the room and identify work areas, shelves and equipment. Record the proposed mounting height and existing electrical connection points. This information helps establish both the lighting layout and installation cost.

The specification lists a nominal 120° beam angle, indicating broad distribution. For accurate spacing, request the IES light-distribution file for the exact model and configuration. Use it for a project-specific lighting calculation instead of treating beam angle as a coverage guarantee.

Where possible, approve a representative area first. Check shadows, glare and light on the working surfaces before completing the rest of the building.

Electrical supply and 0–10V dimming

Both fixtures have a built-in driver rated for 100–277V AC at 50/60Hz. The sheet also lists a power factor greater than 0.90 and total harmonic distortion of 20% or less. These details help the electrical designer check the fixture against project requirements.

The driver supports 0–10V DC dimming. Before ordering controls, have the electrician verify driver compatibility, wiring requirements and the number of fixtures supported by each controller.

Confirm the minimum dimming level and switch-off behavior. A standard household wall dimmer should not be assumed compatible.

If the project needs occupancy sensors or daylight controls, confirm the exact option and what is included in the order. A sensor label in a drawing does not establish that every supplied fixture includes a sensor.

Surface mounting or suspension

The installation guide shows both surface-mounted and suspended arrangements. Surface mounting places the fixture close to the mounting surface, while suspension allows it to hang below the ceiling.

The fixture has a solid frame with a matte white painted finish and a slim profile. Confirm the mounting surface, fixing positions and required hardware before the installation date.

For suspension, verify which wire ropes, hooks and other parts are included. The installer should follow the manufacturer's instructions to secure and level the fixture.

The guide also illustrates a linking arrangement. Ask for the approved linking components, wiring method and maximum permitted run before planning a continuous row. A linking diagram alone does not establish how many fixtures may be connected.

Installation should be completed by qualified electrical professionals with power disconnected, following the manufacturer's instructions and applicable requirements.

Planning a fluorescent lighting replacement

Start by recording the existing fixture quantity, total input wattage and operating hours. Include ballast consumption where applicable so the comparison reflects the old system's actual electricity use.

Inspect the existing wiring, mounting points and access conditions. A complete LED fixture replacement has a different scope from replacing fluorescent tubes with LED lamps.

Include removal, disposal, mounting accessories, labor and access equipment in the quotation. If the building remains occupied, agree on installation phases and any required shutdowns.

For the customer, a clear proposal should explain the planned light levels, fixture settings, installed cost and expected operating costs. That makes the value of the upgrade easier to assess.

Estimate savings using your own project numbers

The specification sheet advertises energy savings of up to 50% compared with traditional fluorescent fixtures. Treat this as a comparison-dependent claim. Actual savings depend on the old system, the new settings and operating hours.

For example, assume 24 existing fixtures use 160W each, including any ballast consumption. Replacing them with 24 fixtures set to 80W, operating 3,000 hours per year, would reduce annual electricity use from 11,520 kWh to 5,760 kWh.

That is 5,760 kWh saved annually, or $864 per year at an assumed electricity rate of $0.15 per kWh. This example represents a 50% reduction in lighting electricity use, provided the proposed layout meets the required lighting levels.

These are illustrative inputs, not guaranteed results. The example excludes demand charges, maintenance costs and any additional reduction from controls.

To estimate your own savings, multiply the wattage reduction per fixture by the fixture quantity and annual operating hours, then divide by 1,000. Multiply the resulting kWh savings by your electricity rate.

For simple payback, divide the net installed project cost by estimated annual savings. Deduct only confirmed incentives from the project cost.

Certifications, warranty and service life

The supplied sheet lists ETL and DLC. Request documentation matching the exact manufacturer model when preparing project approvals. The sheet does not specify DLC Premium.

If utility rebates are part of the budget, confirm the model's current eligibility with the program administrator before purchasing. Ask whether approval is needed before installation.

The fixtures carry a listed five-year limited warranty and a rated life of 50,000 hours. Rated life is not a guarantee that every component will operate without failure for that period.

Review the warranty terms for exclusions, claim procedures, shipping and labor coverage. Ask how drivers or fixtures are replaced if service is needed.

Plan for periodic inspection and cleaning even when maintenance needs are low. The supplied instructions say not to use chemicals on the lighting surface; follow the manufacturer's cleaning guidance.

Ordering for a contractor or facility project

Specify the exact model, total fixture quantity and planned mounting method. Include the delivery ZIP code, required arrival date, supply voltage and any controls or documentation needed.

The sheet lists four fixtures per carton for each size. Confirm the supplier's selling quantity, carton details and final delivered price before issuing the purchase order.

For jobs requiring emergency lighting, ask whether an approved battery-backup configuration is available. The supplied specifications do not establish emergency output or runtime.

An accurate quote should include the required accessories and delivery terms. This helps prevent a low fixture price from becoming a more expensive installation because essential parts were missed.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum wattage of the 8FT model?

The supplied specifications list 80W maximum for the 8FT fixture, with 50W, 64W, 70W and 80W settings.

What is the maximum output of the 4FT model?

The 4FT fixture is listed at 6,500 lumens at 50W. Its lower settings are 20W, 30W and 40W.

Can I change the white-light color?

Yes. Both models offer five selectable settings from 3000K to 6500K. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when making adjustments.

Can I use these lights in a wet area?

The listed IP20 rating provides no rated water protection. Select a fixture documented for the environment if the project involves water exposure or washdown.

Is a motion sensor included?

Confirm the exact ordered configuration. The sensor reference in the supplied drawing does not establish that a sensor is included as standard.

Can I connect multiple fixtures in a row?

The guide shows a linking arrangement, but the allowed quantity and required components need confirmation before installation.

Request pricing for your next commercial lighting project

Selectable wattage and five color settings give your project team flexibility when matching fixtures to different indoor spaces. The next step is to confirm the layout, choose the model and price the complete installation.

Contact SwitchToLED with your required size, fixture quantity, delivery ZIP code and project date to request contractor pricing. Specify 4FT or 8FT and your required wattage so the quote matches your project.