Let’s Talk About Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet
The Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet promises a compact and efficient lighting solution for a variety of applications. Manufactured by Innovative Lighting, this small light is designed for marine environments, RVs, and trailers. Its key features include a long lifespan, underwater rating, and ease of installation.
I was looking to upgrade the lighting in my boat’s livewell. The old incandescent bulb was a power hog and prone to burning out. This Shortie LED promised a more efficient and reliable solution, piquing my interest.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the light’s small size and simple design. The white grommet looked clean and durable, and the blue LED emitted a surprisingly bright light. The build quality seemed solid, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of a marine environment.
I considered other livewell lights, some with more complex features or brighter outputs. However, the Shortie LED’s compact size, low price point, and reputation for reliability swayed my decision. I chose it for its simplicity and promise of long-term, trouble-free operation.
My first impression was positive. I was excited to see how this little light would perform in my livewell, providing illumination without draining my battery. The potential for a long-lasting, corrosion-resistant light was a welcome change from my previous experiences.
Real-World Testing: Putting Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet during a weekend fishing trip on Lake Erie. It was installed in my boat’s livewell, providing illumination for night fishing. The conditions were typical for late summer, with warm days and slightly cooler, humid nights.
The Shortie LED performed admirably in the livewell. The blue light penetrated the water effectively, illuminating the bait without being too harsh or startling the fish. It was easy to see the minnows clearly, making it simple to select the right one for my hook.
Installation was straightforward and only took a few minutes. The 3/4″ grommet fit snugly into the existing hole, and the 9-16 Volt DC system was compatible with my boat’s wiring. The only minor issue was ensuring a watertight seal around the grommet, which required a small bead of silicone sealant.
The light worked without any issues during the initial test. Its low power consumption was noticeable, as it didn’t seem to impact my battery life. The cool-to-the-touch design ensured it didn’t heat the water in the livewell, which could stress the baitfish.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of regular use, the Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet continues to perform well. It has been subjected to various weather conditions, including rain, sun, and fluctuating temperatures. There have been no signs of diminished performance or flickering.
The light shows no signs of wear and tear. The white grommet remains clean and free of corrosion, despite being constantly submerged in water. The LED itself is still bright and consistent, indicating its long-term durability.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent. I occasionally wipe down the lens to remove any algae or debris. But otherwise, the light requires no special care or attention. This is a significant improvement over my previous incandescent bulb, which required frequent replacements.
Compared to my previous experiences with other livewell lights, the Shortie LED outperforms them in every way. Its reliability, low power consumption, and ease of maintenance make it a superior choice. I am impressed with its performance and would happily recommend it to other boaters.
Breaking Down the Features of Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Innovative Lighting. They are a well-known provider of lighting solutions.
- Bulb Type: LED. LEDs are known for their efficiency and longevity.
- LED Color: Blue. Blue light is often preferred for livewells as it doesn’t spook fish.
- Operating Voltage: 9-16 Volt DC Systems. This makes it compatible with most boat and RV electrical systems.
- Service Life: Rated at 100,000 Hours. This equates to many years of use, minimizing replacement costs.
- Grommet Hole Size: Requires 3/4″ Hole. Ensures a secure and watertight fit.
- Features: Shock and Vibration Proof. Designed to withstand harsh conditions.
- Features: Cool to the Touch. Prevents overheating and doesn’t raise the water temperature in livewells.
- Features: No Corrosion. Ensures long-term durability in marine environments.
- Features: Rated for Underwater Use. Essential for livewell applications and other submerged lighting needs.
- Features: Can also be used as accent lighting on yachts, boats, RV’s and trailers. Offers versatile applications beyond livewells.
These specifications are crucial for a reliable and long-lasting lighting solution. The LED technology ensures low power consumption and a long lifespan. The underwater rating and corrosion resistance make it ideal for marine environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet performs its job exceptionally well. It provides ample illumination for livewells and other small spaces. The blue light is effective at attracting fish without being overly bright or intrusive.
Its strengths include its ease of installation, low power consumption, and long lifespan. The underwater rating and corrosion resistance are also significant advantages. There are no apparent weaknesses, given its intended purpose.
The Shortie LED meets and exceeds expectations. Its performance is consistent and reliable, providing a hassle-free lighting solution for my boat’s livewell. The light does exactly what it says it will do.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with durable materials that can withstand the harsh marine environment. The light is lightweight and compact, making it easy to install in tight spaces. The white grommet provides a clean and professional look.
It is user-friendly and requires no special tools or expertise to install. There is no learning curve, and the light operates seamlessly once connected. The design is simple and functional.
Durability & Maintenance
The Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet is built to last. Its corrosion-resistant materials and shock-proof design ensure long-term durability. The rated service life of 100,000 hours means it should last for many years.
Maintenance is minimal. Occasional wiping down the lens to remove debris is all that’s required. The light is designed for hassle-free operation and requires no special repairs or maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet comes with a white grommet for easy installation. There are no other accessories included, as it is a self-contained lighting unit. No modifications are needed.
There are no customization options available for the light itself. However, it is compatible with standard 12V DC wiring systems, allowing for easy integration with existing electrical setups. The user does not need to customize it.
Pros and Cons of Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet
Pros
- Provides ample illumination for livewells and other small spaces.
- Extremely low power consumption extends battery life.
- Rated for underwater use and corrosion-resistant for long-term durability.
- Easy to install with the included white grommet.
- Long 100,000-hour service life minimizes replacement costs.
Cons
- The blue light might not be suitable for all applications or personal preferences.
- Requires a watertight seal around the grommet during installation.
Who Should Buy Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet?
- Perfect for: Boat owners looking to upgrade their livewell lighting with an efficient and reliable LED solution. RV owners seeking accent lighting. Anyone needing a small, waterproof light for submerged applications.
- Who should skip this product? Individuals who prefer brighter or multi-colored lighting options. Those who are not comfortable with basic electrical wiring.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? Silicone sealant for ensuring a watertight seal during installation.
Conclusion on Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet
The Innovative Lighting The Shortie LED Bulkhead/Livewell Light w/ White Grommet is a fantastic lighting solution for its intended purpose. Its reliable performance, ease of installation, and low power consumption make it a worthwhile investment. It offers great value.
At $13.99, the price is more than justified. It offers a long-lasting, maintenance-free lighting solution for livewells and other small spaces. It saves money in the long run.
I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a compact, efficient, and reliable underwater light. It is a simple yet effective upgrade that will enhance your boating or RV experience. Buy it, install it, and enjoy the benefits of long-lasting LED lighting.