What makes LEDs different from the lights I have now?
You've seen LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) in things like exit signs and traffic lights, but they are also being sold to replace incandescent bulbs in recessed lights, linear fluorescent lamps and other fixtures.
LEDs produce light differently from a standard electric bulb. Instead of a filament, LEDs use electrons moving in a semiconductor material to create light. They last longer and use less energy than a standard incandescent bulb.
Where can LEDs be used today?
Are LEDs right for my business?
Despite the energy savings of LEDs, they are still a ways away from replacing existing lights in most cases. The Department of Energy released a report in November 2008 that looked at replacing incandescent lamps with LEDs. The report found that, "For most general illumination applications, current LEDs cannot yet compete with traditional sources on the basis of performance or cost."
Another report in January 2009 concluded that LEDs were not ready to replace linear fluorescent lamps in typical fixtures for general lighting, mostly because of insufficient lighting levels. LEDs currently produce only 10-60% of the light output they first claimed. They also have noticeable issues with color rendition and directionality.
Developers are investing a lot of time and money to improve LEDs, so expect to see LEDs ready for general use in the coming years. However, today you can still meet all your lighting needs with fluorescent, metal halide, high-pressure sodium, halogen, and even standard incandescent lighting systems.
Fluorescent lighting is an excellent choice for general lighting at virtually all businesses. It's hard to beat halogen lighting for accent and spot lighting. And for outdoor lighting, metal halide and high-pressure sodium are both excellent choices. For advice on the best lighting to meet your particular needs efficiently and effectively, send the Lighting Experts an email, or call us at 1-800-649-1169.
More information on lighting technologies and applications can be found in our newsletter archive where 10 years of CMP's Lighting Connection newsletter is available online.
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