Fluorescent Lamps Are Out, For Good.

Why Fluorescent Lamps Are Being Phased Out

Starting January 1, 2026, Minnesota will be implementing a ban on the sale of fluorescent lamps. Fluorescent lamps, which were once the more energy-efficient alternative to incandescent bulbs, have long been a staple in households, offices, and signage. However, they come with significant environmental and health drawbacks:

1. Mercury Content: Fluorescent lamps contain mercury, a toxic heavy metal that poses risks to human health and the environment if the bulbs are broken or improperly disposed of.

2. Energy Efficiency Gap: While they were once considered energy-efficient, fluorescent lamps are now outpaced by LED technology, which consumes significantly less energy and has a longer lifespan.

3. Recycling Challenges: The safe disposal and recycling of fluorescent lamps require specialized facilities, and improper disposal often leads to mercury contamination in landfills and water sources.

The Transition to LEDs

The ban is part of a broader movement to promote the adoption of LED technology. LEDs offer numerous advantages over fluorescent lamps, including:

• Energy Efficiency: LEDs reduce electricity bills by using up to 75% less energy than fluorescents.

• Longevity: LED bulbs can last up to 25 times longer than traditional fluorescent lamps, lowering replacement costs and waste.

• Eco-Friendly Design: LEDs do not contain hazardous substances like mercury, making them safer for users and the environment.

What the Ban Means for Minnesota Businesses

Starting in 2026, Minnesota businesses will no longer be able to purchase fluorescent lamps. The legislation does make exceptions for certain specialized lamps, such as those used in medical and industrial applications, but the vast majority of products will be prohibited.

This means if your current sign is using fluorescent lighting, we will not be able to service the sign as is. Our service technicians will no longer be carrying lamps and ballasts to service signs that use fluorescent lighting. But that does mean there is an opportunity to upgrade your sign illumination with LED. 

How We Can Help You

• Expert Consultation: We will start by assessing your existing signage to determine its suitability for retrofitting. Factors such as sign size, design, and current electrical components are evaluated to recommend the best LED retrofit options for your sign.
• Customized Solutions: Not all signs are created equal, and retrofitting often requires a tailored approach. We can build LED systems that fit seamlessly into the existing framework, preserving the sign’s original look while enhancing performance.
• Installation Services: Professional installation is key to a successful retrofit. Our install techs have the expertise to safely and efficiently replace fluorescent lamps with LED components, minimizing downtime for the business.
• Recycling and Disposal: Fluorescent lamps contain mercury and require careful disposal to avoid environmental contamination. We will facilitate the recycling and disposal for you by working with certified facilities to handle this process responsibly.
• Maintenance and Support: Retrofitting is just the beginning. We can provide ongoing maintenance to ensure the new LED system operates at peak efficiency, extending its lifespan and maintaining the sign’s impact.  

The transition from fluorescent to LED lighting is an exciting opportunity for your business to enhance your exterior signage while contributing to a sustainable future. By partnering with an experienced sign company, like Spectrum Signs, you can be sure the retrofitting process with be handled with ease, ensuring your sign remains vibrant, energy-efficient, and compliant with new regulations.

If you're ready to make the switch, the time to act is now.