[GraniteMark]

I am installing a new Lithonia LED exterior security light to replace a metal halide light. The existing wiring is 240v. The new light is multi-voltage (120-277v), 42W, .35-.15A . Would you stick with the 240v or convert to 120v? I'm not sure if there are any real efficiencies with either voltage on something this small. Thanks for your input!

 

[seharper]

Efficiency wise, it's a coin-flip unless long distances are involved, then 240V wins by a mile.

There is no upside to changing it from 240V to 120V, unless you really want a 120V socket at that location.

Since it's already 240V-wired, and the LED certainly can take 240V, I would not upset the apple cart and leave it as-is.

Unless it has a dedicated breaker and you sorely need the 2 spaces in the panel lol.

 

[Jim Port]

Changing from 240 to 120 would only free up 1 breaker space, not 2.

 

[Let it Snow]

There is no difference in efficiency for an LED. A 42 watt light is 42 watts at any voltage.
A motor on the other hand, will run cooler and last longer on 240V.

 

[seharper]

Changing from 240 to 120 would only free up 1 breaker space, not 2.

Because once you convert this low-draw lighting circuit to 120V, it can simply be combined with another existing 120V circuit.

 

[Shadow99]

A motor on the other hand, will run cooler and last longer on 240V.

A dual speed motor will run at the same temp whether 120 or 240V
The current is still the same through the run windings.

 

[FrodoOne]

A dual speed motor will run at the same temp whether 120 or 240V
The current is still the same through the run windings.

Because, on 240 V, they are in series while on 120 V they were in parallel.