LED 101 LED = Light-Emitting Diode
The light-emitting diode (LED) is today’s most energy-efficient and rapidly developing lighting technology. Quality LED light bulbs last longer, are more durable, and offer comparable or better light quality than other types of lighting.
Energy Savings
LED is a highly energy-efficient lighting technology and has the potential to change the future of lighting in the United States fundamentally. Residential LEDs -- especially ENERGY STAR-rated products -- use at least 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent lighting.
Widespread use of LED lighting has an enormous potential impact on energy savings in the United States. By 2035, most lighting installations are anticipated to use LED technology, and energy savings from LED lighting could top 569 TWh annually by 2035, equal to the annual energy output of more than 92 1,000 MW power plants.
How LEDs are Different
LED lighting differs greatly from other lighting types, such as incandescent and CFL. Key differences include:
Light Source: LEDs are the size of a speck of pepper and can emit light in a range of colors. A mix of red, green, and blue LEDs is sometimes used to make white light.
Direction: LEDs emit light in a specific direction, reducing the need for reflectors and diffusers that can trap light. This feature makes LEDs more efficient for many uses, such as recessed downlights and task lighting. With other types of lighting, the light must be reflected in the desired direction, and more than half of the light may never leave the fixture.
Heat: LEDs emit very little heat. In comparison, incandescent bulbs release 90% of their energy as heat, and CFLs release about 80% of their energy as heat.
Lifetime: LED lighting products typically last much longer than other lighting types. A good quality LED bulb can last 3 to 5 times longer than a CFL and 30 times longer than an incandescent bulb.
LED Products
LED lighting is available in various home and industrial products, and the list grows yearly. The rapid development of LED technology has resulted in increased product availability, improved manufacturing efficiency, and lower prices. Below are some of the most common types of LED products.
Industrial and Commercial Lighting
LEDs' high efficiency and directional nature make them ideal for many industrial uses. LEDs are increasingly common in street lights, parking garage lighting, walkway and other outdoor area lighting, refrigerated case lighting, modular lighting, and task lighting.
Under-Cabinet Lighting
Because LEDs are small and directional, they are ideal for lighting tight spaces such as countertops for cooking and reading recipes. Since there can be variation in light color and directionality, it is important to compare products to find the best fixture for your space.
Recessed Downlights
Recessed downlights are commonly used in residential kitchens, hallways, bathrooms, and in many office and commercial settings. DOE estimates more than 600 million recessed downlights are installed in U.S. homes and businesses.
LED Replacement Bulbs
With performance improvements and dropping prices, LED lamps can affordably and effectively replace 40, 60, 75, and even 100-watt incandescent bulbs. Reading the Lighting Facts Label is essential to ensure the product has the proper brightness and color for its intended use and location.
Benefits to Upgrading to LED Lighting
- LEDs use at least 75% less energy than incandescent lighting
- LED lighting lasts 35-50 times longer than incandescent bulbs
- LED advanced lighting controls save more than 50% compared to manually controlled systems
- LED troffers are 44% more efficient than fluorescent troffers
- LEDs help meet California Building Title 24 Energy Efficiency Standards
- LEDs help increase property values
Additionally ...
Achieve sustainability goals
More efficient lighting means less energy usage. If your company is working toward reducing its carbon footprint, energy efficiency upgrades will help you achieve your sustainability goals faster.
Save money
Lighting systems are one of the costliest components to operate in buildings. With energy-efficient programs that offer rebates and no upfront capital, upgrading your lighting can be a win-win situation.
A more productive work environment
Dim lighting can cause headaches, eye strain, and lack of focus. Upgrading to more energy-efficient lighting can improve employees’ comfort and enhance safety, creating a more welcoming and productive work environment.
