Looking at a Bright Future: LED Bulbs
The government is forcing a phase out of incandescent bulbs, correctly citing the fact that they require a lot of energy to use. Compact florescent bulbs are replacing them currently, but contain mercury, a deadly poison. LED bulbs, while not quite ready for all purposes, are capturing an ever-increasing part of the energy-efficient lighting market.
The Advantages
LEDs are highly efficient; they draw between 80-90% less energy than incandescent bulbs for the same quantity of light emitted. They can last up to 100,000 hours, and they produce little heat. This makes them ideal for a number of applications. New shapes allow them to be used in traditional light fixtures.
Unlike CFL bulbs they can be used with a dimmer switch. Furthermore, advances in technology now allow them to be created in a pure white light such as is used in the home or office.
LEDs are not limited to white light, however. They come in a variety of colors and they can, in fact, be designed to produce a specific shade. They light up very quickly, unlike CFL bulbs, and they cycle frequently if the need arises. Finally, they are environmentally safe to use.
The Challenge
While LEDs have come a long way, and are now entering domestic use, they do continue to have a few challenges. When compared to other bulbs, the initial investment is considerably higher. However, the savings both in monthly energy bills and bulb replacement costs, make them a very good investment.
Initial Applications for the Home
Of course, no matter how wonderful LED bulbs might be, unless they can be used practically within the home they won't sell. While they are not ideal for every application as of yet, there are several places where you can put LEDs to good use.
When used as spot lights over specific areas you wish to illuminate - for example over a kitchen island or stove, to highlight artwork or to direct attention at a particular spot - they are ideal. Another great place to try out LED bulbs is in hard to reach locations. Nothing is more frustrating than having to take out a ladder to change a bulb every few months, especially when the bulb is difficult to get to. Placing an LED bulb in such a spot will probably save you the need to replace it for as long as you live in your home.
Another optimal application is outside use. Using LED bulbs in sensor fixtures, patio lighting and other sensitive areas provides a lot of light for a little money. Because of the quick cycling and minimal energy usage you don't have to worry about leaving on the lights or having them triggered frequently.
Where to Find Them
LED lights can be found at a variety of vendors. They are only just beginning to take shelf space at large home supply stores. You might need to look a bit harder for them if you want to shop at such discounted locations, and your selection may be limited.
You can find plenty of vendors online - however, you should be cautious about which company you purchase from.
As mentioned above, expect to pay more for your LED bulbs. They have come down in price in the last 5 years, which does help, but you can still expect to pay $7-$68 per bulb depending upon a number of factors.
Still, if nothing else will convince you of the advantages of changing over to LED, consider that replacing 5 incandescent accent lights - those candle shaped lights in chandeliers - with an LED version will reduce your carbon emissions by nearly a ton a year if you use the fixture about 40 hours per week; and that's not environmental chump change.
The Advantages
LEDs are highly efficient; they draw between 80-90% less energy than incandescent bulbs for the same quantity of light emitted. They can last up to 100,000 hours, and they produce little heat. This makes them ideal for a number of applications. New shapes allow them to be used in traditional light fixtures.
Unlike CFL bulbs they can be used with a dimmer switch. Furthermore, advances in technology now allow them to be created in a pure white light such as is used in the home or office.
LEDs are not limited to white light, however. They come in a variety of colors and they can, in fact, be designed to produce a specific shade. They light up very quickly, unlike CFL bulbs, and they cycle frequently if the need arises. Finally, they are environmentally safe to use.
The Challenge
While LEDs have come a long way, and are now entering domestic use, they do continue to have a few challenges. When compared to other bulbs, the initial investment is considerably higher. However, the savings both in monthly energy bills and bulb replacement costs, make them a very good investment.
Initial Applications for the Home
Of course, no matter how wonderful LED bulbs might be, unless they can be used practically within the home they won't sell. While they are not ideal for every application as of yet, there are several places where you can put LEDs to good use.
When used as spot lights over specific areas you wish to illuminate - for example over a kitchen island or stove, to highlight artwork or to direct attention at a particular spot - they are ideal. Another great place to try out LED bulbs is in hard to reach locations. Nothing is more frustrating than having to take out a ladder to change a bulb every few months, especially when the bulb is difficult to get to. Placing an LED bulb in such a spot will probably save you the need to replace it for as long as you live in your home.
Another optimal application is outside use. Using LED bulbs in sensor fixtures, patio lighting and other sensitive areas provides a lot of light for a little money. Because of the quick cycling and minimal energy usage you don't have to worry about leaving on the lights or having them triggered frequently.
Where to Find Them
LED lights can be found at a variety of vendors. They are only just beginning to take shelf space at large home supply stores. You might need to look a bit harder for them if you want to shop at such discounted locations, and your selection may be limited.
You can find plenty of vendors online - however, you should be cautious about which company you purchase from.
As mentioned above, expect to pay more for your LED bulbs. They have come down in price in the last 5 years, which does help, but you can still expect to pay $7-$68 per bulb depending upon a number of factors.
Still, if nothing else will convince you of the advantages of changing over to LED, consider that replacing 5 incandescent accent lights - those candle shaped lights in chandeliers - with an LED version will reduce your carbon emissions by nearly a ton a year if you use the fixture about 40 hours per week; and that's not environmental chump change.
