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LED Lighting
Summary of Benefits
Less Expensive Electricity Bill:
Although the cost of the light bulbs are initially more expensive, both CFL and LED
lamps save you money long run. Less electricity is used, and bulbs are being
replaced much less frequently; LEDs use about half the amount of electricity that
CFLs that output the same brightness use.
Long Lifespan:
Run-times of CFL bulbs typically range from 6,000 hours to 15,000 hours while the
typical lifespan of an incandescent lamp is around 1,000 hours. A LED lamp can last
50,000 to 60,000 hours which equates to around 5 or 6 years (10 times longer than a
CFL).
Versatility:
Indoor, outdoor, home, or commercial LED and CFL bulbs can be used in a many
different types of applications where conventional bulbs were once used. LED bulbs
and CFLs can be used in track lighting, table lamps, task lighting, recessed fixtures,
and ceiling fixtures. Both types of bulbs are available in dimmable models for use
with a standard dimmer switch.
Durability:
Since LED light bulbs don't use a filament like incandescent, they are shock
resistant and can be used in high vibration applications.
Warm-up time - LED lights turn on instantly, while CFLs take a few minutes to warm
up and provide full brightness.
Hazardous waste - CFLs contain mercury and must be properly disposed of. The
EPA website provides proper disposal options. LEDs do not contain mercury.
Frequent Cycling Lowers Lifespan - In high traffic areas, such as home bathrooms,
where CFLs are turned on and off often, their lifespan will decrease quickly.
Ultraviolet Light - CFL bulbs can emit UV-light which may not be desirable for certain
applications.
LEDs:
High initial cost - The LED bulbs themselves are costly, but the initial investment is
quickly recuperated in lower electricity bills.
Heat generation - Certain high power (5w and up) LED light bulbs may produce
significant heat. Heat-sinks are often built into the bulbs themselves, and may
require LED specific fixtures to ensure proper air-flow.
LED light bulbs are becoming the choice for energy efficient lighting due to their
varied bulb options, and the ease of which the light output can be layered and
controlled when compared with CFL bulbs.