LED lighting has grown in popularity at a remarkable pace over the last decade. When LED light bulbs are compared to incandescent light bulbs, it is easy to determine which option is more economical. When you consider the fact, LED lighting utilizes less energy and costs less than incandescent lighting. If you are still utilizing conventional lighting, it may be time to start rethinking your decision. There are many reasons to make the transition from incandescent lighting to LED lighting. Of course, you will never know if you refuse to make the transition. Below, you will discover a list of factors to consider when shopping for LED lighting.
Brightness Level
Incandescent lighting and LED lighting are measured in watts. 450 lumens is compared to 6 watts (LED), 40 watts (incandescent), and 29 watts (halogen). 450 lumens is minimally bright when compared to 5800 lumens or 45 watts (LED) and 300 watts (incandescent).
It is crucial to consider lumens. The higher the lumens, the bright the LED. A 6-watt LED light bulb is ideal for low lighting environments while a 45-watt LED light bulb is more suitable for reading. However, 24- and 45-watt LED light bulbs are compatible with special high-voltage lamps.
Longevity (Hours)
Ask any LED lighting manufacturer about longevity. When the lifespan of LEDs is compared to incandescent bulbs, there is a remarkable difference. The lifespan of LED bulbs is up to 50,000 hours, compared to the incandescent bulb’s 1,000 hours.
LED bulbs latest four times longer than fluorescent bulbs. When compared to the halogen bulb, the LED bulb is guaranteed to last several years longer. The halogen bulb has a lifespan of 1,000 hours, compared to the LED bulb’s 50,000 hours.
Operating Cost
When most people transition from incandescent lighting to LED lighting, the main goal is to minimize the annual operating cost. If you have made it this far, it is obvious, you are trying to save money on your annual energy bill. LEDs utilize less energy than fluorescent, incandescent, and halogen light bulbs.
Evidence shows LED bulbs utilize 80 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs. The only light bulb that even comes close to the LED bulb is the fluorescent bulb. The fluorescent bulb utilizes 75 percent less electricity than the incandescent bulb.
Color Temperature
Another factor that must be considered when shopping for LED lighting is color temperature. The color temperature determines how warm the bulb is when touched. As far as color temperature goes for LED lighting, it is very inconsistent. The color temperature varies depending on the quality of the LED bulb.
The color temperature for the incandescent light bulb is 2,700K or warm, compared to 3000K for the fluorescent light bulb.
Summary
Other factors include output, dimming capability, and Color Rendering Index CRI rating. There are various brands of LED lighting that stand above the rest. It is crucial to consider name brands because they generally come with a better warranty than knockoffs. Making the transition from incandescent lighting to LED lighting is an important step to creating an eco-friendly home.