With a longer lifespan and far lower running costs compared to traditional lamps, LED lighting is beginning to spread into more businesses across the UK, but what do you need to know before you think about converting to LED?
Over the last two years, the costs of LED lighting has tumbled significantly meaning more companies across the UK are considering the switch to the eco-friendly lighting option. So what are the advantages and disadvantages of LED, and are they a good choice for your business?
Advantages
Energy efficient – LEDs are up to 90% more energy efficient than traditional lighting.
Long-Life – a correctly fitted LED light should last over 50,000 hours, compared to the 5,000 of traditional lamps.
Durability – LEDs are also somewhat more rugged than traditional lights as they are made of solid material with no filament or tube to break.
Instant turn-on– Unlike eco-lights which have a warming up period, LED lights turn on instantly
Controllable – LEDs can be controlled for brightness and colour as well as directionality. This means there’s no light wasted.
Environmentally friendly – As well as great efficiency LEDs contain no mercury or other hazardous substances.
Disadvantages
Cost– Although the price of LED lamps has fell significantly there is still a higher outright cost price. This should eventually be offset by savings
Over Heating– Poor quality, or badly fitted LED lamps are prone to overheating causing the LED to burn out
Directional light– Older LEDs used to emit light like a torch, in straight lines. Although new lamps have improved the light spread is not quite the same as a standard lamp.
Dimmable compatibility– LED lights are not always compatible with older dimmer units, so a new switch may be needed