LED ROI Calculator for Signage Projects
Use this LED ROI calculator to estimate module count, system wattage, power supply count, energy usage, labor time, and retrofit savings when switching from your existing LED system to TMT LED modules.
How the LED ROI Calculator Works
Module Count (Lumen Matching)
The calculator uses lumen-matching methodology. The number of TMT modules required is the ceiling of (existing total lumens divided by TMT lumens per module). This ensures the new system always meets or exceeds the existing light output.
Power Supply Sizing
Power supply count uses official per-model 60W load limits from TMT datasheets where available (typically 84-85% of rated wattage). When no official limit is published, an 80% derating fallback is used as a conservative planning estimate.
Energy Cost Calculation
Annual energy cost = total watts / 1000 x hours per year x electricity rate. Default: 4,380 hours per year (12 hours/day, 365 days). All assumptions are visible and editable in the calculator.
Installation Time
Labor savings are estimated from the difference in module count and power supply count between the existing system and the TMT system, multiplied by your entered install time per module and wiring time per supply.
LED ROI Calculator
Select your TMT module, enter your existing system details, and calculate savings.
Calculator Assumptions and Limitations
Default Assumptions
- Operating hours: 4,380 per year (12 hours/day, 365 days) — editable
- Power supply sizing: official TMT per-model load limits from datasheets
- PS derating fallback: 80% of rated wattage when no official limit exists — editable
- Module count: ceiling function (never rounds down)
- Energy savings: based on wattage difference at entered electricity rate
Planning Estimate Disclaimer
Calculator results are planning estimates only. Final LED layouts should account for sign depth, stroke width, face material, desired brightness, voltage drop, wire runs, loading margin, local electrical code, and manufacturer installation guidance. Always verify with a final layout before ordering.
Read the full calculator methodology | Power supply planning guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the LED ROI calculator estimate?
The calculator estimates module count, system wattage, power supply count, annual energy cost, installation time, and 5-year cumulative cost for both your existing system and the selected TMT LED module system.
How is module count calculated?
Module count uses lumen-matching: the ceiling of (existing total lumens divided by TMT lumens per module). This ensures the TMT system always meets or exceeds the existing light output. The ceiling function means the result is never rounded down.
Why does the calculator use official 60W load limits?
TMT publishes per-model load limits in their datasheets (e.g., 32 modules per 60W supply for the Midi 4 at 1.7W). These limits reflect real-world safe loading. Using raw wattage division alone can overload supplies. The calculator uses official limits first and falls back to 80% derating only when no official limit exists.
Can I change the operating hours assumption?
Yes. The default is 4,380 hours per year (12 hours/day, 365 days). You can enter your actual operating hours in the calculator. The energy cost calculation updates automatically.
Should I use calculator results to order materials?
No. Calculator results are planning estimates. Always verify with a final LED layout that accounts for sign depth, stroke width, face material, voltage drop, wire runs, and local code requirements before placing an order.
Where can I get a custom layout?
TMT LEDs USA offers a free online layout tool (TLS) at tls.tmtleds.com. For complex projects, email tls@tmtleds.com for a customized layout. You can also contact Kurtis Strand at TMT LEDs USA directly.