TLW: The Top 10 Benefits of LEDs

There is no doubt that LEDs are the most technologically advanced addition to the lighting industry in recent years. We speak to Melissa Davidson about the many benefits inherent in LEDs, and why everybody should be switching over.

Light Emitting Diodes or LEDs are manufactured solid light sources that are powerful, energy efficient, durable and long lasting. Says Melissa Davidson from leading lighting supplier, The Lighting Warehouse: “LEDs are the way of the future – they offer so many benefits that it is very worthwhile to consider moving over to LEDs for all your lighting needs.” She provides an outline of the many benefits of LEDs:

1.) LEDS are efficient: If you are still using incandescents, you can save up to 90% energy simply by switching to LED globes. This will save you money on your utility bills, but since LEDs have a considerably longer lifespan than other lights, they will also save you money on replacement costs.

2.) LEDs offer excellent longevity and durability: An LED globe lasts a minimum of eight times longer than an incandescent globe, and five times longer than a CFL (compact fluorescent globe). It is estimated that LEDS boast a lifespan of around 25 000 hours! LEDs are classified as solid express lighting devices that utilise semiconductor material rather than a filament or neon gas. An LED light comprises a tiny chip exemplified in an epoxy plant enclosure, which makes them much sturdier than their counterparts, as they are mostly able to withstand harsh weather, shocks, vibrations and abrasion.

3.) LEDs are cooler and safer: During our hot summers, we are always looking at ways to keep the interiors of our homes cooler. Traditional incandescent globes, including halogen globes, are actually one of the main culprits when it comes to unnecessary in-home heat generation. By contrast, LED globes remain cool when functioning. In fact, LEDS remain cool to the touch when in operation, which is not only great for keeping our homes cooler, but it also reduces the potential for dangers, such as burns and fires for example.

4.) LEDs are ecologically sound: In contrast to other globes, such as fluorescent lighting for example, which uses mercury, LEDs are made entirely from non-toxic materials, and are considered “green” or earth-friendly. All the components inherent in an LED globe are recyclable, and using LEDs will help you reduce your carbon footprint.

5.) LEDs are available in a variety of colours: LEDs are mostly available in both warm white and cool white, and coloured LEDS are generally available in red, green, blue and yellow. There is an LED gu10 downlighter that is colour-changing and remote control operated, which offers purple, pink, orange, and light blue.

6.) LEDs are versatile: LEDs are available in a number of different formats – making them exceptionally versatile. They are available as globes, striplights, LED channels, LED panels, LED undercounter lights, LED outdoor lights (including solar) , and you can even purchase all-in-one LED decorative pendants .

7.) LEDs have almost no UV emissions: LEDs produce a very small amount of infra-red light, which makes them an excellent source of light for storage cupboards, as they won’t degrade stored materials by either UV or heat. This also makes them a good source of light for highlighting artwork. Traditional incandescent and halogen globes with their filaments emit large amounts of ultra violet light which can be harmful too for example artwork.

8.) LEDs can work in extreme temperatures: Unlike other incandescent lights for example, LEDs work well in extreme temperatures, which make them ideal for locales with very hot or very cold environments. It also makes them the ideal choice for fridge or freezer lighting.

9.) LEDs work instantly: When switching on a CFL globe, there will be a slight warming up process before full brightness is achieved. Some may even flicker while they are starting up. However, LED globes offer a full and steady illumination the second they are switched on – which is a real advantage, especially for lights around the home that are regularly switched on and off.

10.) LEDs are dimmable: In the past, you weren’t able to dim LED globes at all. However, today, you can purchase dimmable LED globes that are designed to work with purpose-built LED dimmer switches. This is great news, as now you can use LED lighting in areas in the home where ambient or mood lighting is important, such as in the lounge or dining room for example.