LED Lighting Guide: Do You Really Need It?

Over the last decade, incandescent lights have been replaced with more energy-efficient alternatives, including LED lights. If you haven’t made the switch to LEDs yet, here are some of the key things you need to know to help you decide if you really need LED lighting.

What is LED Lighting?

Unlike incandescent bulbs that use a filament, LED lights use a semiconductor called light-emitting diodes. This process is nearly 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs. Because LEDs convert energy into light more efficiently, they are much cooler than incandescent. This can be especially important if you have small children or pets that may touch the bulb.

LED lighting also comes in several different shapes and sizes. The inherent nature of LEDs means they can be incorporated into fixtures as permanent light sources or can be retrofitted into existing fixtures. LEDs can be found in the traditional bulb shape, as tube lights, light strips, etc.

Are LED Lights Brighter Than Incandescents?

Brightness depends on how much wattage the bulb takes in and how many lumens it produces. LEDs produce more lumens per watt. This means the same wattage can have very different results with LEDs and incandescent. A good point of reference is that 1600 lumens are nearly the equivalent of a 100-watt incandescent light bulb.

Do LEDs Have Blue Light?

Modern LEDs typically come in 2700 Kelvin, which is a “warm white” similar to traditional incandescents, or in 3000 Kelvin, which is still a warm tone, just slightly whiter. It is possible to get LEDs in 3500 or 4000 Kelvin, which offer a whiter light. However, whiter light means bluer light.

Can I Use LEDs With Any Fixture?

LEDs can be used with most fixtures that have standard E26 (medium base) or E12 (candelabra base) sockets. As LEDs become more popular we will likely see more socket sizes that are compatible.

Can I Use LEDs With a Dimmer Switch?

Not all LEDs are dimmable. If this feature is important you must first check the LED fixture and make sure it is dimmable. You also need to make sure it is compatible with the dimmer you have. Most dimmable LED fixtures require a specific type of dimmer switch.

Most dimming LEDs only adjust the lumen output as opposed to making light warmer. However, “warm dim” LED fixtures are quickly being introduced in the market.

How Long Do LEDs Last?

LEDs last longer than an average lightbulb. An LED’s average lifespan is 20,000 hours versus an incandescent or halogen bulb that lasts, on average, 2,000 hours. This means your LED bulbs could last 20+ years if the bulb is only used a few hours a day.

How Much Can I Save With LEDs?

LED bulbs are more expensive upfront, but cost less to run overtime. LEDs are far more efficient, using fewer watts. This in turn drastically reduces the cost of running the bulb. On average, homeowners could save around $600 a year switching to LEDs.

Are Incandescent Bulbs Legal?

The phasing out of incandescent and halogen lights was to begin being phased out in early 2020 as part of energy legislation implemented under President George W. Bush and finalized under the Obama administration. However, in late 2019 President Trump rolled back this requirement for energy-efficient light bulbs. This means that incandescent and halogen bulbs are still legal, for now.

So, Do You Need LED Lighting?

Currently, nothing is mandating that you switch to LED lights. However, LEDs are becoming increasingly popular and subsequently more affordable. If you are concerned about your electricity bill or the environment, switching to LED bulbs can help you with both. If you are concerned about converting your home from traditional lighting to LED lighting, you don’t have to do it alone. The professionals at Wire Craft can help you come up with the best solutions to make your home’s lighting more efficient. Contact our professionals now.