LED Bulbs the environmentalists choice in energy saving light bulbs
Presently there is a lot of concentraton on the environment and how energy saving light bulbs can cut back the carbon foot print
. Undoubtedly the best technology energy saving light bulb is LED bulbs, nevertheless their cost is high and are they in all respects worth the investment? Here is a summary of the technology and history of LED Bulbs together with information regarding the costs and environmental positive aspects. Optimistically this information will be of assistance in decision making in LED bulbs.
LED bulbs technology
LED Bulbs utilize light emitting diode semi-conductor technology which has been around since 1962 in a simple form mainly for very low light indicator lamps. The technology behind LED bulbs allows very small units, typically of 1 square millimetre, to be made and in a spectrum of colours. Also LED's are inherently very reliable and can withstand knocks and bangs widening their utilization. The power constraint of the early units meant that usage was restricted to applications ,for example electronic unit displays; however, the technological advancement basically means that they are now adopted in general lighting applications.
How much energy do they save?
If we use a 25 watt halogen downlighter as a comparator then approximately the same level of light output can be obtained from a 3W LED MR16 . This will create and electricity saving in the vicinity of 85% in comparison to the halogen bulb. Another consequence of the electricity saving is that there will be less stress on the electrical wiring and any transformers will have a longer life span. This results in an additional operational cost saving.
Cost of LED bulbs
The price of LED bulbs is significantly more than either incandescent, halogen or CFL bulbs, but with advancements in technology then the price now means they are commercially viable. When analysing the commercials is most important to note that LED bulbs will typically last anything up to 50 times more than conventional bulbs as their life in approximately 30000 hours.
To quantify the cost savings here we add the running costs of a LED bulb to the purchase cost and compare this to the cost of using traditional bulbs for the same period. Using this practice then you will see a lifetime saving of ordinarily 250 for every LED purchased.
The effect on your carbon footprint of using LED bulbs.
There are 3 key advantages of using LED bulbs from an environmental point of view.
1. LED lamps have a exceptionally long lifespan compared to conventional bulbs and accordingly the level of landfill is dramatically reduced.
2. When electricity is generated using oil and coal stations then it develops large quantities of carbon dioxide. The low energy usage results in a large reduction in your carbon footprint.
3. LED's unlike CFL's do not contain mercury or any other hazardous substances which are dangerous to the environment.
These 3 eco benefits disclose clear facts as to why LED bulbs are the preferred option in comparison to halogen or beyond doubt CFL technology for energy saving light bulbs. In due time these benefits mean that it is predicted that LED technology will take over as the best choice.
LED Bulbs the environmentalists choice in energy saving light bulbs