Please welcome guest writer, Carl Turner.
Why LEDs Are the Most Efficient Lighting Choice
Whether you’re trying to go green at home or work, or you simply want to reduce your electricity bill, LED lighting is an excellent solution. There are many advantages to LEDs, including an incredibly long bulb lifespan, easy maintenance, resistance to damage and wear, compact sizes, and much more. However, arguably the most important feature that LEDs offer is their efficiency. Let’s take a look at why LED lighting is the most efficient and eco-friendly lighting option available today.
Analyzing Efficacy
According to Energy.Gov, it’s important to consider both the source efficacy and the luminaire efficacy when determining the efficiency of your LED setup. The source efficacy refers to how efficient the actual LED bulb itself is, and the luminaire efficacy is based on how successful the LED and the fixture work in conjunction to produce the desired lighting effect. In other words, the lamp you use also determines how efficiently the LED runs, so remember that your mileage may vary based on your fixtures.
LEDs Have the Longest Lifespan
On average, LED lights have a lifespan of around 50,000 hours – sometimes more. That’s over five years of continuous lighting. In comparison, a standard incandescent bulb usually provides around 1,000 hours, and a similar CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) provides 8,000 to 10,000 hours. Even the best linear fluorescent lights only last for approximately 30,000 hours, making LEDs the clear winner for longest lifespan.
LEDs Use Less Electricity
Compared to similar bulbs, LEDs are the clear winner for electricity consumption. For every 10 watts used by a LED bulb, an incandescent bulb would require 60 watts and a CFL would require 14 watts, according to The Simple Dollar. Simply put, that means you’re spending less on energy while still enjoying the same amount of light. Over time, those savings really add up, making LEDs an undeniably financially sound long-term investment.
LEDs Are Still Improving
LEDs are only going to continue getting more efficient. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the efficacy of LED products has improved steadily since they were first introduced, and we can logically anticipate that better production methods, new materials, and new configurations will continue to improve LED efficiency.
LEDs Are the Environmentally Friendly Option
LEDs are a much cleaner option. Not only do they reduce light pollution, but they don’t contain any filament, gas, or mercury. According to Atlanta Light Bulbs, LEDs rely on a semiconductor chip that lights up when a current flows through it. That means you don’t have to worry about proper disposal procedures or accidentally harming the environment, yourself, or other people with toxic materials.
LEDs Are Surprisingly Affordable
When you consider the clear advantages that LED lighting offers over other comparable bulbs, switching over is a no-brainer. LED bulbs can be purchased for around $5, and sometimes less depending on the retailer. In the past, LEDs were recognized as a valid long-term investment, but the initial upfront cost could be daunting. These days, however, LED prices are comparable to CFL or incandescent bulbs, so why not transition to a more efficient option? Your electricity bill and the Earth will thank you.
