By now, we’re sure you have heard of LED technology, but you may not know how the technology is transforming our entire business. LED’s use a fraction of the electricity used by other types of light bulbs and can last up to 10 years.
How do they work?
Without getting too technical (zzzz), a driver converts AC power to DC power to illuminate a microchip. LED’s (Light Emitting Diode) are extremely efficient and can use 1/10th of the electricity a standard incandescent bulb uses. Plus, they are extremely long-lasting, in some cases 10 years or more depending on use.
I want to save some money on my electric bill, where should I start?
Start by replacing light bulbs in heavily used areas such as your living room or kitchen. Lights that normally stay on for longer time spans are another good place to replace, such as outdoor fixtures that may be on for most of the night or garage lights. Don’t forget those hard to reach spaces that are a pain to change out are another excellent spot for LED bulbs; vaulted ceilings and exterior flood lights that are accessible only by a ladder will give you less hassle with LED bulbs installed.
Alright, I know where I want them, now what do I buy?
Well, there are a few things to be aware of when buying LED bulbs:
Lumens: This is the amount of light put off by the LED. Most packages will give an incandescent wattage equivalency. For example, a 19w LED puts off the same amount of light as a 100w incandescent.
Kelvin (K): This is the color the LED emits. A standard incandescent bulb is usually in the 2700k range and what you find in most homes. LED’s have the ability to range in all sorts of colors with the most popular being “warm white” (2200-3000k) and “daylight” (4000-5000k). Daylight gives a fluorescent, office lighting color, which is whiter.
Dimmers: Not all LED bulbs are dimmable. The cheapest LED’s are, in most cases, not dimmable so make sure to check the packaging when buying. That being said, there is nothing wrong with non-dimmable LED’s, they’re a perfectly cheap solution for outdoor fixtures and anywhere in your home you do not have a dimmer. When purchasing dimmable LED’s just be aware some may flicker or strobe when installed on a standard dimmer and may require the installation of an LED dimmer designed specifically for LED bulbs. These special dimmers are available at Lowe’s or Home Depot and are not difficult to install.
If you have any questions, concerns, or would like some assistance on your LED lighting installation don’t hesitate to give Werkheiser Electric a call.