1. DLC certification
The DesignLights Consortium (DLC) was established in 2009 as a collaboration between utility companies and regional energy efficiency organizations in the United States and Canada. The DLC aims to promote energy efficiency in commercial lighting through the development of technical specifications and quality standards for lighting products. By certifying products that meet these standards, the DLC helps businesses and consumers identify energy-efficient lighting solutions that can reduce energy consumption and operating costs. The DLC certification has become a widely recognized mark of quality and energy efficiency in the lighting industry, driving the adoption of sustainable lighting technologies.
2. More about DLC certification
The DesignLights Consortium (DLC) 5.1 is an updated version of the DLC technical requirements and quality standards for commercial lighting products, specifically focusing on LED fixtures and bulbs. DLC 5.1 sets more stringent criteria for energy efficiency, performance, and quality compared to previous versions, encouraging the adoption of even more advanced and efficient lighting technologies.
- Color temperature test for high color temperature;
- LM79 test for low color temperature;
- ISTMT test for low color temperature;
- Temperature rise test of driver (required by Premium version);
- TM21 life analysis;
- …
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Required documentation varies depending on the products. For detailed required documentation on specific product, please fill out our short form, our expert will be glad to assist you further. Below are some of typical required documentation for DLC certification:
- LM79 test report + ISTMT temperature rise test report;
- Safety test reports (issued by ETL, UL or TUV, or reports recognized by United States federal government);
- Lead time will be reduced with LM80 test report. Otherwise, it will be tested for 6,000 hours;
- Product specification;
- 5-year warranty statement;
- If you apply for premium version, the specification and life span evaluation report of driver shall be provided.
Below are the general application steps for achieving DLC certificate. Have questions or not sure where to start? Please fill out our short form, our expert will be glad to assist further.
- Provide recognized safety test report;
- Send samples for testing;
- Issue test report (generally takes 1 week);
- Register on Lightingfacts website;
- Register on DLC website;
- Settle payment;
- DLC audit (generally takes 2-3 weeks);
- Listed on DLC website.
3. Price and lead time
You will never pay for services that you don’t need! GTG Group provides a customized quote which are tailored to each client's needs and budget. Furthermore, you will receive the DLC certification within 5-7 weeks according to our past successful records, much shorter than the average industry time.
However, the cost and the lead time of testing and certification varies depending on the product complexity and the testing requirements. GTG Group provides free consultation to assess your needs and provide advice on how to get started with compliance. Contact us today by filling out our short form!
4. Differences between DLC certification and Energy Star® certification
Both DLC certification and Energy Star® Certification play a crucial role in promoting energy efficiency and sustainability, offering consumers and businesses options to choose environmentally friendly lighting solutions tailored to their needs, but they have some key differences:
- Scope: Energy Star® Certification covers a wide range of products, including appliances, electronics, and lighting, while DLC certification specifically focuses on commercial lighting products such as LED fixtures and bulbs.
- Certification Criteria: Energy Star® Certification sets energy efficiency guidelines for products based on national standards, while DLC certification establishes technical requirements tailored to commercial lighting applications.
- Incentives: Products with Energy Star® Certification may qualify for rebates and incentives from utility companies and government programs, while DLC-certified products are often eligible for utility rebates specifically targeting energy-efficient lighting upgrades.
- Recognition: The Energy Star® label is more widely recognized by consumers across various product categories, while DLC certification is more industry-specific and targeted towards commercial lighting professionals.
5. Why choose us?
Founded in 2012, GTG Group is an independent ISO/IEC 17025 accredited product testing and certification services provider in China, providing comprehensive testing and regulatory certifications obtaining services for a wide range of products. Our goal is to certify your products and ensure their compliance with regulatory standards in order to help you access worldwide markets.