Microlite Lighting Control Retrofit for Existing Buildings
Many commercial and institutional buildings still operate Microlite lighting control systems. While these systems were reliable when installed, they are now increasingly difficult to service, limited in integration capability, and often unsupported. In many cases, however, a Microlite lighting control retrofit can modernize the system without requiring full replacement.
A retrofit approach allows facilities to upgrade lighting control functionality while reusing existing enclosures, wiring, and compatible relays. This reduces cost, minimizes downtime, and improves long-term serviceability.
How a Microlite Lighting Control Retrofit Works
A Microlite retrofit typically focuses on replacing outdated control electronics while keeping the panel enclosure and branch circuit wiring in place. Legacy electronics are removed and replaced with a retrofit interior designed to fit the existing panel footprint.
When relay types are compatible and in good condition, existing relays can often be reused. The upgraded system communicates using BACnet MS/TP, allowing direct integration with the building automation system without gateways or proprietary middleware.
This approach avoids rewiring, fixture replacement, and large-scale shutdowns, making it well suited for occupied buildings.
Relay Compatibility and Replacement Considerations
Not all Microlite relays are suitable for reuse. Four-wire Microlite relays are discontinued and have demonstrated long-term reliability concerns. These relays are not reused and must be replaced as part of the retrofit strategy.
Identifying unsupported relay types early allows replacement to be planned correctly and reduces the risk of extended downtime in the future.
Supported Panel Configurations
Most Microlite retrofit projects involve centralized relay panels commonly found in commercial facilities. Retrofit interiors are typically configured to support common panel sizes, including 16-relay and 32-relay configurations.
By matching the existing enclosure and relay count, retrofits can be completed without disturbing line-voltage wiring or requiring full panel replacement. This is especially important in schools, healthcare facilities, offices, and municipal buildings.
Integration With Building Automation Systems
Modern buildings increasingly require lighting controls to function as part of a unified building automation system. Microlite lighting control retrofits support native BACnet MS/TP communication, allowing lighting schedules, points, and status to be accessed directly through the BAS.
This improves coordination with HVAC systems, simplifies commissioning, and supports centralized building management.
Switches, Sensors, and Emergency Lighting
Existing dry-contact momentary switches can often be reused in a Microlite retrofit. Powered switches, legacy sensors, or non-dry-contact devices may need to be replaced to align with modern control logic.
Emergency lighting requirements should be reviewed early in the retrofit process. Confirming emergency circuits and relay behavior upfront helps ensure code compliance and prevents late-stage scope changes.
Why Retrofit Instead of Full Replacement
A retrofit interior approach offers clear advantages over full system replacement. It lowers installation cost, shortens outage windows, minimizes disruption to occupants, and extends the useful life of existing infrastructure.
By addressing discontinued or unreliable components as part of the retrofit, facilities can improve long-term system reliability without unnecessary risk.
Evaluating a Microlite Lighting Control Retrofit
If your facility operates a Microlite lighting control system and is experiencing serviceability, integration, or support challenges, a retrofit solution should be evaluated before pursuing full replacement.
Modern Microlite lighting control retrofits allow legacy systems to evolve alongside today’s building automation platforms while preserving existing infrastructure.
Can This System Be Retrofitted?
Not every lighting control system needs to be replaced.
Many legacy systems can be modernized while reusing existing panels, wiring, or relays.
Use our Lighting Control Retrofit Assessment to determine whether this system is best suited for:
- A retrofit kit
- A retrofit interior
- Or a full system replacement
This quick assessment provides a clear, high-level recommendation before pricing or design begins.
Call to action:
Start the Retrofit Assessment
If you have questions or prefer to speak with someone directly, contact sales@brtint.com.
