What does LED stand for?

Light Emitting Diodes

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How long do LEDs last?

It varies by brand and style, but LEDs are notable for being extremely long-lasting products. Many LEDs have a rated life of up to 50,000 hours. This is approximately 50 times longer than a typical incandescent, 20-25 times longer than a typical halogen, and 8-10 times longer than a typical CFL. Used 12 hours a day, a 50,000 bulb will last more than 11 years. Used 8 hours a day, it will last 17 years!

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Where can LEDs be used?

LED’s come in a variety of types and can replace most incandescent and CFL lamps. LED replacements are already available for bulb types such as A-shape, PAR reflectors, MR reflectors, decorative, undercabinet, and more. When used on dimmers, particularly dimming systems that support many bulbs, we suggest testing a few LEDs first to test compatibility.

Should LEDs be used in enclosed fixtures?

Only use LEDs that are listed as “enclosed rated” for this purpose, it will say on the packaging if it is enclosed rated.

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What are the advantages of switching to LED?

LEDs typically use 85% LESS energy of incandescent lamps, i.e. a 9 watt LED will replace a 60 watt incandescent. They will also produce less heat and last longer.

Why do LEDs cost more than other types of bulbs and are they worth it?

LED’s have sophisticated electronics that produce the light output. The cost benefit is they last longer and end up saving money in the long run due to increased life and reduced energy consumption. The more LEDs manufactured the less they cost.

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Is an LED going to produce enough light to replace my current bulb?

Yes, a 9watt LED can produce the same lights as a 60watt incandescent lamp, additionally LEDs are available in a variety of the color of the light output from Warm White to Daylight.

What is the quality of LED light?

If you buy quality product, the light quality is excellent. Color Rendering Index (CRI) is generally used to measure light quality on a scale from 1-100. Most LEDs have a CRI rating of at least 80, and many are rated 90 and above. LEDs provide superior light output as compared to incandescent as they are easier to control where the light goes, and have the advantage of LEDs being available in a variety of the color of the light output options from Warm White to Daylight.

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How “green” are LEDs?

LEDs are very green. For starters, they use much less electricity than many other lighting products. This means that less electricity needs to be produced to operate them, and resulting in lower emissions from power plants, especially in areas where coal-fired plants are common. Unlike CFLs, they contain no mercury. Because of their long life, they also reduce solid waste.

 

Can LEDs be used with dimmers?

Usually, yes. Many LEDs are specifically listed as being dimmable. Some dimming systems work with LEDs better than others, so it is best to test one or two before completely re-lamping a space.