Since the invention of the first usable LED light in 1962, LED technology and accessibility have inarguably advanced in leaps and bounds. According to the US Energy Department in 2012, approximately 49 million LEDs were installed in the United States alone. This resulted in an energy savings of about $675 million annually. In fact, LED lights have become so efficient that it’s estimated LED lights will account for 75% of all lighting sales by 2030.
Why You Should Join the LED Revolution
There’s no doubt that the LED revolution has transformed the way we consume energy and the standards we have for our lighting solutions. But did you know that even the government endorses the use of LED lighting solutions? Here are a few surprising reasons why Uncle Sam wants you to light up your life with solid-state lighting.
Solid-state lighting is more efficient
LED is short for “light-emitting diode.” A diode is an electrical device that contains two electrodes through which electricity flows, typically in one direction. LED solid-state lighting uses a semiconductor to convert electricity into light. According to the US Department of Energy, today’s LED light bulbs are up to seven times more efficient than traditional incandescent lights while cutting energy use by more than 80%.
The ability of LED lights to run more efficiently than incandescent light also means that LEDs are much cooler than their traditional counterparts. Incandescent and Compact Fluorescent Lighting (CFL) can release more than 90% of their energy as heat. On the other hand, the heat in LED bulbs is dissipated by a metal ‘heat sink’ or liquid cooling mechanisms that wicks away heat from the light source itself.
LED lighting solutions last longer and are more versatile
Typically, incandescent bulbs can last anywhere from 1,000 to 2,000 hours. LED replacements, on the other hand, are routinely quoted as having a lamp life of 25,000 to 50,000 hours. For those having trouble imagining just how much longer LED lights last, that means that your new LED will have a life of more than three years if kept running 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Longer lamp life and reduced power usage aren’t the only benefits to LEDs. Solid-state lighting is also far versatile than traditional lighting. From traffic and brake lights to your TV screens, the unique characteristics of LED lighting solutions has resulted in their use in a variety of applications.
What makes LED lights so dynamic?
- Compact size
- Easy maintenance
- Resistance to breakage
- Ability of LEDs to focus their light in a single direction
LED lighting has a smaller environmental footprint
Recently, an Energy Department study found that LED lighting solutions have a much lower environmental impact than both incandescent lights and CFLs. As LED technology continues to develop, the future is promising for this source of eco-friendly light.
Since 2000, solid-state lighting research and development has resulted in the creation of 58 new patents for projects. These include everything from developing new ways to use materials to solving underlying technical challenges and cutting costs. In fact, the need for investment in solid-state lighting is so evident that the Energy Department just announced its sponsorship of five new projects aimed at improving manufacturing equipment and LED production processes.
Stop Paying More Than Necessary for Your Lighting Needs
At LED Lighting and Power, we are familiar with all of your lighting needs; whether you’re looking to cut down your home’s energy bill or if you’re in need of the best lighting for your business, our lighting design experts are here to help you make the most of the LED revolution!
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