LED stands for “light emitting diode.” This device is a semiconductor. Other types of lighting convert energy into heat and then light. LEDs skip the heat part, converting energy directly into the light we need. This process is more efficient, with less wasted electricity.

Manufacturers can customise the colour of an LED by using different materials to make them. Many produce white light by combining a blue LED with yellow phosphor.

Some will instead combine red, green, and blue LEDs to create white light. This method isn’t typically used for household lighting. It’s preferred when creating components for full-colour devices.

Are LED Bulbs More Efficient Than Other Lights?

LEDs have been hailed as the most efficient lighting option out there. There are many reasons for that. They pull far ahead of standard incandescent bulbs when it comes to efficiency.

An incandescent light will use approximately 60 watts per 10 LED watts. The LED uses five times less energy. Incandescent bulbs also only last a short time – usually months. LEDs can last up to 25 times longer (depending on quality and brand).

Halogen bulbs are another popular choice. Both halogen and LED products produce the same brightness. LED wins again by generating equal illumination while consuming 85% less energy. They also last approximately 10 times longer than halogen bulbs.

How Much Can I Save Using LEDs in My Home?

Some homeowners get excited when they hear about the energy efficiency and lifespan of an LED, only to feel uncertain when they see the initial cost. LED bulbs have come down in price in recent years, but they are still the more expensive option. That’s why it’s important to look at the bigger picture when deciding on what type to buy.

It’s impossible to know exactly how much you will save each year without knowing how big your home is, how long you leave your lights on, and how many lamps and fixtures you need to power.

According to the Australian Department of Environment and Energy website, electricity accounts for 10% of the average household budget. Replacing 10 halogen bulbs with LEDs can amount to an estimated savings of $650 over 10 years.

For those concerned about the initial expense, you’ll be happy to hear that LEDs generally earn that amount back in less than a year of use.

Manufacturer Viribright found a noticeable difference in long-term operational costs. The following list is based on using a 60-watt incandescent bulb and equivalent CFL and LED bulbs over 20 years. The totals include the cost of the bulb, and the energy consumed to power it:

• Incandescent bulb costs $211
• CFL bulb costs $54
• LED bulb costs $34

When you factor in the long-term savings, LED lights still win out even with their higher purchase price.

There are also environmental benefits to using efficient lighting that requires fewer replacements. Begin switching to LEDs now so that you can start saving on your annual household expenses.

Most people used to rely on incandescent lights to brighten their homes. Today, household lighting uses a variety of bulbs. These are often more efficient than what was available years ago. It can be difficult to know which type of bulb is the best option for you. The first step is understanding the technology and how it can lower your expenses and increase efficiency.

LED Light Bulbs Explained

Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, are a popular choice for many lighting applications. They offer superior lifespan and are highly energy efficient. They emit direct light rather than diffused light and are often used as a component in circuitry. Once they reach the end of their lifespan, they don’t just burn out like incandescent bulbs. They tend to fade out, providing some illumination.

LED bulbs last as much as 10 times longer than halogen products and uses 25% of the energy consumed to generate the same amount of lighting. Some appliances and fixtures utilise smart technology that includes LED bulbs. This can sometimes counteract the money-saving benefits by lowering efficiency when left on in standby modes. Otherwise, they offer a great alternative to incandescent bulbs because they consume 75% less energy and last 25 times longer.

CFL Bulbs Explained

Compact fluorescent lights, or CFL bulbs, are another energy-saving option. They require one-fourth of the energy used by incandescent lights. Much like LED bulbs, they can last as much as 10 times longer. They are quiet and offer warmer colour compared to older fluorescent technology.

Some households prefer CFL over LEDs because they are cheaper to buy. However, they are not quite as efficient as LEDs and only last about half as long. They also contain a small amount of mercury (approximately 4 milligrams per bulb). They don’t break easily, but if they do, proper safety precautions should be taken when removing the pieces and cleaning up. Homeowners should review the recommended procedure before using CFL bulbs so that they are prepared in case of an accident.

Halogen Bulbs Explained

Halogen bulbs are a type of incandescent lighting. They are similar in appearance and functionality. However, they are 30% more efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. They also offer a longer life span.

Halogen lights are not as efficient as CFL or LED bulbs. They cost less, making them an appealing short-term option. People who aren’t ready or don’t have the money to invest in expensive LEDs or CFLs can opt for halogen to help lower utility bill costs. The average halogen light uses approximately 35W to 50W and emits illumination that’s similar to natural daylight.

What Type of Light Globe Should I Use?

Each type of light globe offers different benefits. Halogen is a cost-effective option that will help a household begin to lower their energy consumption. LEDs are more expensive but provide an impressive lifespan and significant efficiency. CFLs are a good middle ground if someone isn’t prepared to pay for an LED but wants more energy savings than a halogen will provide. Remember to also consider wattage, brightness, shape, and colour before choosing a new light globe for your home.

If you bought light bulbs in the last several years, then you have probably come across LEDs. Light emitting diodes (LED) were invented in 1962. They were very expensive to buy at the time, which made them impractical for everyday use in homes. Research and development over the following decades drove the price down to what it is today, making LEDs a viable choice for residential use.

Many communities have created initiatives to encourage people to switch to LEDs. What is it about this relatively new light source that makes it so appealing?

• LED Lights Are Highly Efficient

LED light bulbs are 90% more efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. This is a big benefit for people who want to save money, save the environment, or do both at the same time. Higher efficiency means a lower monthly utility bill. It also consumes less energy, which is ideal for conservation purposes.

• LED Lights Last Longer

The average LED light bulb has a much longer life span than its incandescent counterparts. In fact, some models can last 41.6 times longer for a total of 50,000 hours of use. They cost more than incandescent lights, but the extended lifespan more than makes up for it.

It’s also a good thing for environmentalists. It means fewer bulbs are needed to light homes in an average year. Fewer bulbs used translates to less household waste dumped in landfills.

• LED Light Bulbs Are Durable

Durability is important when using lights. Incandescent bulbs must be handled with care. The exterior is fragile and can break if they are dropped, fall, or are accidentally struck.

LEDs are not indestructible, but they tend to be more durable. They are resistant to most jarring or bumping. There is no filament, which is a common weak point in incandescent lighting.

• LED Light Bulbs Are Safer

Safety is a top priority for most consumers. LEDs are safer overall. They do not generate as much heat as incandescent bulbs. This eliminates the danger of burning if someone’s skin touches the bulb or surrounding light fixture. No heat also helps maintain a comfortable temperature in your home during the warmer months.

LEDs do not contain mercury like compact fluorescent (CFL) lights do. Elevated blood mercury levels can cause long-term health effects. A CFL bulb is safe, as long as it doesn’t break. If it breaks, that’s when exposure is a concern. LEDs pose no mercury risk.

• LED Bulbs Can Handle Switching

Cycling power can shorten the life of some types of light bulbs. For example, CFL bulbs are often marketed as providing up to 10,000 hours of use. However, if the bulb is switched on and off frequently, it may only provide around 3,000 hours of use.

LED lights are not affected by switching. The bulb will not lose hours if it is installed in a fixture that is turned on and off throughout the day.

LEDs offer significant financial and environmental benefits. They are easy to find, more affordable than they once were, and can help keep your home safe, comfortable, and well­ lit.

There is no denying the influence electricity has on our modern lives. We use it to wash our clothing, cook our food, and power our communication and entertainment. An increase in electricity consumption also means there are more opportunities for things to go wrong. The following list identifies common electrical problems around the home and how to deal with them.

• Power Surge – An electrical surge can happen for many reasons, including poor wiring, lightning strike, or damaged power lines. Some of these things must be handled by your energy company. If wiring is the issue, then you may need to talk to an electrician.
• Uneven Power – If power seems to dip and surge at times, this could be due to the poor quality of the devices consuming it. Check your home for faulty or inferior-quality electronics and replace as needed.
• Circuit Overload – Circuit overload happens when too many devices are consuming power at the same time. This often occurs in older homes that haven’t been updated to meet modern electrical standards. You may need to upgrade or otherwise increase the power capacity in your home. In the meantime, you can unplug devices that are not in use to lower the load.
• Tripped Circuit Breaker – Circuits trip to protect your home. One of the most common causes is a high-wattage device like a microwave or hairdryer. Try using lower settings on these appliances or reduce the number of electrical devices in use at the same time.
• Malfunctioning Light Switch – If your light switch is faulty, there could be one of several issues. It may need to be replaced or rewired. Dimmer switches can have trouble adjusting, especially if they are not installed properly or use poor quality materials. An electrician can identify the cause and come up with a solution.
• Light Bulbs Burning Out – If you notice your light bulbs burning out faster than they should, you could have one of several problems. Common causes include poor wiring, wattage is too high, a dimmer switch is overloaded, or your insulation may be too close to the bulb.
• Lack of Outlets – Older homes were built with fewer electrical outlets. Using power strips to create more ports can work but can also become a hazard if too many devices are connected. The only way to fix this problem is to install new outlets. In some cases, you may need to rewire and upgrade the service box to handle the increased capacity.
• Electrical Shock – Electrical shock can be mild and may feel like a slight tingle when you touch an appliance. This usually indicates that something is wrong with the appliance or wiring that is powering it. You should be careful when handling these devices and replace them or fix the issue as soon as possible.
• High Electrical Bill – If you receive an unusually high electric bill, that could indicate a problem with your home. Old electrical wiring and poor quality or damaged devices could be causing power surges. You should unplug devices when not in use to lower utility costs.
• Lights Turning Off or Dimming – If your lights dim or brighten, you may be using the wrong type of bulbs. Lights turning off and on could indicate that the fixture is too close to ceiling insulation, causing it to heat up.

An electrician should be called anytime you cannot identify the cause of a power problem or if the problem is too complex to handle. Visit our website to learn more about using electricity at home.