Benefits of switching your home lighting to LED
8 to 15% of the average home power bill can be contributed to lighting. We agree, it's not a huge amount but if you're keen to reduce your home's electricity bill every bit counts. Converting to LED lighting throughout the house has many benefits, from increased energy efficiency to reduced maintenance.
Why should I switch to LED lighting?
LED bulbs are up to 80% more energy efficient than older-style incandescent bulbs.
Long-lasting and cost-effective
LEDs last significantly longer than other bulbs (2 or 3 times) and, after an initial period during which they were a bit costly, are getting much cheaper. However, even with the higher initial cost the savings on replacement bulbs and operation costs far outweigh this outlay.
Prices for standard bulbs range from around $5-20 for LED bulbs vs $4-6 for CFLs or halogens.
Light-emitting diode bulbs utilise most of the energy they consume to produce light. Halogens, on the other hand, waste a lot of power to heat rather than light.
Bright light
Modern LED bulbs can create as much light as you need and can even be used as spotlights. Early versions of LEDs earned a reputation for having a low dull light output when they were first introduced, this is definitely no longer the case.
Instant-on
Unlike some CFL bulbs which have a small lag time while they warm up, LEDs produce light the instant they are switched on.
Colour
The range of light options is extensive, from basic warm or cool white to all the colours of the rainbow.
Bulb conversion table
| Brightness in Lumens | 220 | 400 | 700 | 900 | 1300 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old-style incandescent | 25W | 40W | 60W | 75W | 100W |
| Halogen | 18W | 28W | 42W | 53W | 70W |
| CFL | 6W | 9W | 12W | 15W | 20W |
| LED | 4W | 6W | 10W | 13W | 18W |
Bulbs are no longer measured in watts, the amount of power used by the bulb, but rather lumens which is the amount of light produced.
Where can LED lighting be used?
Anywhere, from tiny under-cabinet lighting to a grand chandelier at the entrance of your home, right up to huge floodlights for sports fields.
How do I switch over to LED bulbs?
Switching over for most households is straightforward.
Some light fittings may need to be upgraded, LEDs get rid of a small amount of heat through the base of the bulb so enclosed fixtures may not be suitable for standard LEDs. Alternatively, you may need to purchase bulbs specifically designed for this style of fitting. Speak to your electrician for advice specific to your home lighting, not doing so can cause bulbs to burn out faster or pose a fire risk from overheating, this is especially the case with recessed downlights. Each year fire and emergency services respond to fires that are caused by incorrectly fitted downlights, don't take the risk.
240-volt fittings are often a straight bulb replacement switchover. 12-volt fittings may need a replacement driver so ask a licenced electrician to carry out upgrades to 12-volt fittings to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.
As with any product or service, you get what you pay for and using reputable brands will usually ensure you get a quality, long-lasting product. There will always be cheap alternatives available if you value good lighting in your home invest in trustworthy brands.
Keep reading for more intriguing electrical information
- Simple tips on how to keep your home cool for less this summer
- What's the difference between a safety switch and a circuit breaker?
Ref - thelightbulb.co.uk/resources/lumens_watts/, yourenergysavings.gov.au/, energyrating.gov.au,