More and more people are striving to live a greener lifestyle or become more energy-efficient by purchasing products that use less energy. Recessed lights using light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, are one of many energy-efficient products. They can last 15 times longer and use less energy than incandescent or fluorescent light bulbs. However, you should analyze your needs before switching to LED lights.
LED light bulbs
LED light bulbs are very efficient, use little electricity and generate virtually no heat. They last for about 50,000 hours, or seven years. LED lights are used in small to large electronics. They can be found in Christmas tree lights, flashlights, cellphones and TVs. In TVs, LED lights can produce a clearer picture, but can be more expensive.
They also are used in traffic signals and in tail lights in trucks. Recessed lights are a great option for a reading light or under-cabinet lighting.
LED lighting pros
LED recessed lights last for many years. In the long run, a person will save a significant amount of money by using LED lighting instead of compact fluorescent lights or incandescent light bulbs, because of the energy savings.
LED lights conduct little heat, so they do not usually attract insects and are ideal to use in outside light fixtures. A cleaner and sharper light is usually emitted from LED lights.
Because LED light bulbs do not contain mercury, they do not pose a health or environmental risk. They do not have to be recycled in a special manner like compact fluorescent lights do.
LED lighting cons
LED lights typically cost from $22 to $150--significantly more than compact fluorescent or incandescent light bulbs--and the output of light is less. These light bulbs usually provide direct light and do not scatter light in a room, so LED lights are better for lighting a small area.
Another downside of LED lighting is that some fixtures cannot use replaceable bulbs. There is the expense of buying a new fixture or product when the lifespan of the bulb is up. It also can be a challenge finding a fixture or electronics that use replaceable LED bulbs.
History of LED lights
LED have been around as a practical electronic component since the 1960s but have not been readily used or available in residential settings until the past few years. Because more manufacturers are producing LED lights, they are becoming more affordable than when they were first introduced.
Considerations
A 9 watt LED bulb is comparable to the light output of a 40 watt incandescent light bulb. Only four colors were available up until a few years ago, but now LED lights come in 13 colors, including white.
There are also several types of LED bulbs, intended for different purposes. Take this into consideration when purchasing an LED bulb.
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