Household Tips & Resources
LED Light Bulbs
Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Lights
LEDs are one of the most efficient types of light bulbs to use for indoor and outdoor purposes. LEDs use a fraction of watt power, compared to incandescent bulbs, in order to create the same amount of light (lumens). LEDs use about 6-8 watts to create the same amount of lumens as a 60 watt incandescent light bulb. They are also about twice as efficient compared to compact fluorescent lights (CFLs). This saves you money on your electricity bill and is good for the environment!
Light color, or color temperature, is measured using the Kelvin scale. LEDs are available in warm colors (2700k-3000k) to show yellowish light similar to incandescent bulbs, a neutral white color (3500k-4100k) that appears white, and they are also available in cooler colors (5000k-6500k) that show a bluer type of light.
LEDs have the longest lifespan as well. On average they can last 8-25 times longer than incandescent lighting, and 6 times longer than a CFL.
What is a LED?
A light-emitting diode (LED) is a two-lead semiconductor light source. When voltage is applied to the leads, electrons are able to recombine with electron holes inside of the device, releasing energy in the form of photons. This effect is called electroluminescence, and the color of the light (in relation to the energy of the photon) is determined by the energy band gap of the semiconductor.
Choosing the Right Bulb
Look for the Lighting Facts label the next time you are in the market for a lightbulb. Similar to the Nutrition Facts label found on manufactured foods, the Lighting Facts label provides you with the basic information needed to make an informed decision on your next purchase.
- ENERGY STAR: Look for the ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY STAR-certified bulbs use 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last 10-25 times longer, while providing the same amount of light. ENERGY STAR-certified bulbs are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are available for use in recessed cans, track lighting, table lamps, and more.
- Brightness: The brightness, or amount of light you will get from a bulb, is measured in lumens. More lumens means it will be a brighter light; fewer lumens means it will be a dimmer light. Follow these general guidelines when replacing incandescent bulbs:
- To replace a 150-watt incandescent bulb, look for an energy-saving bulb that emits about 2,600 lumens.
- To replace a 100-watt incandescent bulb, look for an energy-saving bulb that emits about 1600 lumens.
- To replace a 75-watt incandescent bulb, look for an energy-saving bulb that emits about 1100 lumens.
- To replace a 60-watt incandescent bulb, look for an energy-saving bulb that emits about 800 lumens.
- To replace a 40-watt incandescent bulb, look for an energy-saving bulb that emits about 450 lumens.
- Estimated Yearly Energy Cost: This provides an estimate of how much it will cost to operate the lightbulb per year. The average number of hours per day a light is used and the rate of electricity used to calculate the cost are included for reference. For a more accurate yearly energy cost, multiply the average number of hours per day you anticipate using the light, the number of days per year you anticipate using the light, and the current kWh electricity rate.
- Life: This is the estimated life expectancy of the bulb, expressed in years. It is based on an assumption of 3 hours of operation per day. If your daily usage is more than 3 hours, the life expectancy will decrease.
- Light Appearance: Energy efficient lightbulbs are now available in a range of colors. Light color is measured on a temperature scale referred to as Kelvin (K), and ranges from 2,600 K - 6,600 K. Lower Kelvin numbers mean the light will be warmer, having a yellow or orange hue. Higher Kelvin numbers mean the light will be cooler, having a white or blue hue. Most ENERGY STAR-certified bulbs are in the 2700 K - 3000 K range to match the color of incandescent bulbs.
- Energy Used: This is the amount of watts the bulb uses.
- Contains Mercury: This disclosure designates bulbs containing mercury.
Common types of LED lights are:
Directional – Reflector Led Lamps
Directional – Reflector LED lamps are the best solution for lighting large areas of space. Reflector LED lamps light the area in a beam pattern with less energy consumption. It is good to use where goods and materials are sensitive to UV light emissions.
Conversion Kits & Downlights
Conversion kits and downlights are dimmable and provide a very sophisticated lighting experience. It comes in sleek and professional designs to suit working places. They can be easily converted to different sizes of 4, 5 and 6 inches.
LED Spots
Different sizes of LED spots are available to fit different types of needs. LED spots are good for people who are seeking brighter light that will last longer. LED spots are particularly useful for people or businesses that have large showrooms. It will help them to display their products be more presentable for customers.
LED Candle Bulbs
LED-Globe bulbs are best for indoor purposes and are a good alternative to incandescent light bulbs. LED-G bulbs are useful for bathroom strip lighting, chandeliers, ceiling fans and lanterns. LED-G bulbs are dimmable which can reduce electricity use.
LED-G (Globe) Bulbs
LED-Globe bulbs are best for indoor purposes and are a good alternative to incandescent light bulbs. LED-G bulbs are useful for bathroom strip lighting, chandeliers, ceiling fans and lanterns. LED-G bulbs are dimmable which can reduce electricity use.
LED Tubes
LED tubes are shorter and slimmer than regular tube lights. They are easy to install and they do not create a lot of heat. They are best to use in offices or at home. They are eco-friendly and do not omit UV rays, so they are better for the environment.
LED Track Lights
Track lights are useful to illuminate a big area without wiring too many fixtures. On track can have several different LED lights on it that has a stylish and modern look to it. There are different sizes, shapes, and colors for track lights. Track light providers typically customize the track light to fit the wants and needs of the customer. Track lights are made of copper and allow the lights to be positioned in a variety of different ways.
LED Industrial High Bay Lights
High bay lights are used for industrial purposes and are designed to be more durable and long lasting. To be more efficient and cost effective, people use industrial high bay lights for their businesses. They come in different shapes and sizes to fit the customer’s needs.