LEDs (light-emitting diodes) belong to a family of lighting technology known as Solid State Lighting (SSL). SSL is distinct from other types of lighting in that electricity is converted into light through the use of a semiconductor material, rather than a filament (incandescent, halogen), gas (fluorescent, neon) or plasma (arc lamps). To find out more about how semiconductors work, check out our blog.
As a type of SSL, LEDs offer number of advantages over traditional lighting technologies including:
- lower energy consumption;
- longer life span;
- less radiated heat;
- greater durability;
- greater versatility.
By replacing your traditional incandescent bulbs with LEDs you can save up to 90% on the cost of lighting your home and help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint. This is because LEDs are more efficient. About 90% of the energy consumed by an incandescent light bulb is radiated as heat, rather than visible light. In contrast, less than 10% of the energy consumed by an LED is emitted as heat.
The semiconductor inside an LED degrades at a much slower rate than a filament, typically lasting for up to 50,000 hours. Compare this to a halogen which only lasts 1,000 hours and a compact fluorescent lamp, which lasts 10,000 hours. LEDs don't fail abruptly like other light bulbs either. Instead, they fade away slowly over time, and will even continue working at a very low light output.
After a halogen bulb has been on for a while it becomes too hot to touch. This isn't the case with LEDs. As explained before, LEDs are more efficient at converting energy into light and therefore emit less heat. So, even after prolonged use, an LED Bulb can still be handled safely. They are less of a fire hazard and won't leave unsightly scorch marks on your luminaires either.
Being solid-state components, LEDs are more resiliant to shocks and vibrations, unlike fluorescent and incandescent bulbs, which are made of fragile parts.
Thirty years ago, LEDs were mostly used as indicators in electronic appliances. Fast forward to today and they are being used in torches, cars, televisions, photography and general purpose lighting. To get some idea of how truly versatile LED Lights are, why not look at how architects use them to illuminate building exteriors.
If you would like to find out how LEDs can help save you money on the cost of lighting your home or business, give your retailer a call today.
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