LEDs have come a long way from their humble beginnings in 1962. Nick Holonyak, Jr. invented the first visible-spectrum LED in the form of red diodes. LEDs appeared as indicator lights and calculator displays in the 1970s, and the discovery of the blue diode in the 1990s ushered in LED bulbs being used in traffic lights, flashlights, and TVs. Lighting companies, like EarthTronics today, continually make improvements to both the quality of light and energy efficiency of LEDs, cutting their market cost and boosting energy savings. But, despite all the historical and recent advancements in LED technology, a few myths still hang in the air. Here are four LED myth busting facts to set the record straight.
1. LEDs are really expensive.
At first, LEDs were much more expensive than other forms of lighting, and they do still have a higher initial cost of purchase when compared to incandescent and CFLS. With LEDs you’re playing the long game – meaning that over the course of a few years, while you may have changed out a CFL multiple times, the LED is still going strong. Due to its much longer lifespan, the simple fact that you don’t have to buy replacements nearly as often drives down the cost. That coupled with the immediate energy consumption savings (up to 80%), makes the ROI even more dramatic.
2. LEDs aren’t compatible with existing fixtures.
Actually, many fixtures and lamps can be converted to LED by simply replacing the bulb. At EarthTronics, we also offer LED fixture retrofit kits and “plug n play” lamps that don’t require any arduous rewiring making installations quick and easy.
3. LEDs are way too bright.
At first, LEDs were seen as harsher than other forms of illumination, emitting a strong blue/white color. Nowadays, LEDs come in a range of lumens and color temperatures, from cool to warm, and are completely dimmable. No matter if you’re looking for lighting in a warehouse, restaurant, hospital, or house, LED lights are available in every hue and level of illumination needed.
4. LEDs last forever.
Yes, LEDs can last a very long time – but they don’t last forever – and beware of lighting distributors that say they do. Many reputable LED manufacturers have adopted the L70 rating at between 20,000 and 30,000 hours. That’s still a really long time and a more realistic lifespan estimation. Lower quality LED fixtures may tout a 100,000-hour lifespan, but the electronics that power the fixture are not and frequently fail within the first year. That’s no good!
It’s your best bet to work with a well-known LED manufacturer from the get-go. EarthTronics is dedicated to developing energy efficient lighting products that provide a positive economic and environmental impact for our customers. Based in Michigan, our products are found in commercial buildings, hotels, restaurants, and residential homes! Check out our extensive inventory online, and if you have any questions, or would like us to help “light up” your next project or renovation, please contact us anytime!
Sources
https://www.energy.gov/articles/history-light-bulb
https://www.destinationlighting.com/fliptheswitch/led-lighting-benefits-myths/