What is LED lighting?
An electrical current passes through a microchip, which illuminates the tiny light sources we call LEDs and the result is visible light. To prevent performance issues, the heat LEDs produce is absorbed into a heat sink. By using semi-conductors to convert electricity into light instead of heat, LED lights are more efficient than incandescent light bulbs.
According to the U.S Department of Energy, “The light-emitting diode (LED) is one of today’s most energy-efficient and rapidly-developing lighting technologies. Quality LED light bulbs last longer, are more durable, and offer comparable or better light quality than other types of lighting.”
LED Lighting Facts:
- Longer life: on average LED bulbs last for over 20,000 hours or 5 times longer than incandescent
- Energy Efficient: LED bulbs use at least 75-80% less energy than incandescent bulbs
- Environmentally Friendly: LED bulbs do not use mercury in their production and since they last longer, there will be fewer bulbs in the landfills.
Shopping for LED Bulbs:
- LED bulbs are measured in Lumens not Watts. Lumens is a measure of light the bulb gives off while watts is a measure of the amount of energy a bulb gives off.
- LED bulbs are available in different colors & 3 white light shades: bright white (blue-tinted), soft white (yellow-tinted), and daylight (bright light).
- An ENERGY STAR certified bulb has been tested for color quality, light output and efficacy.
- For more information on how to choose the best LED bulb for your home, check out this link.
Being energy efficient is not only good for the environment but it will also save you money. You can transition slowly, by replacing incandescent or CFL bulbs as needed or replace bulbs room by room. There are also services available from electricians and handy-men that can do your whole house at once. However you decide to transition over, it is a step in the lighted direction!
For additional information see the link below:
