LED vs. Incandescent Lighting

In 1879, Thomas Edison created the first electronic source of light, the incandescent light bulb. From then there were very few major advancements in the lighting industry, that was until the LED came to life.

The battle between incandescent and LED lighting is a fight for dominance in our homes and workplaces. While the familiar incandescent bulb has served us well for over a century, LED technology offers a brighter, more sustainable future. Let's break down the key differences between these two lighting options:

Understanding the Bulb: Incandescent vs. LED

• Incandescent: This is the classic type of bulb you're probably familiar with. It works by heating a thin filament made of tungsten metal to a high temperature. As the filament gets hot, it glows and produces light. The bulb itself is made of glass and is either filled with an inert gas or a vacuum to prevent the filament from burning out quickly. However, this heating process is inefficient, with only about 10% of the energy being converted to light. The rest escapes as heat.
• LED (Light Emitting Diode): LED lighting technology is a solid-state alternative. Instead of a filament, LEDs use semiconductors that emit light when an electric current passes through them. This process is far more efficient, converting most of the energy used into light with very little heat generation.

The Benefits of Switching to LED

Here's why LEDs are quickly becoming the preferred lighting choice:

• Energy Efficiency: This is where LEDs truly shine. They can use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs to produce the same amount of light. This translates to substantial cost savings on your electricity bill over time.
• Lifespan: Another area where LEDs reign supreme is lifespan. Incandescent bulbs typically last around 1,000 hours, requiring frequent replacements. LEDs boast a lifespan that can range from 25,000 to 50,000 hours, or roughly 25 times longer. You'll replace LED bulbs far less often, reducing maintenance costs and waste.
• Temperature: As mentioned earlier, incandescent bulbs generate a significant amount of heat. This can be a drawback in warm climates or rooms where heat gain is undesirable. LEDs, on the other hand, emit very little heat, making them a cooler lighting option.
• Variety and Versatility: LEDs offer a wider range of color temperatures and dimming capabilities than traditional incandescent bulbs. This allows for greater design flexibility and the ability to create specific lighting moods for different areas of your home or business. LEDs are also available in a wider variety of shapes and sizes, making them suitable for a broader range of lighting applications.

The switch to LED lighting has been a very gradual, with a lot of homes and offices still using incandescent bulbs. However, the change over to LED is one that can provide greater customisability, and savings in the short and long term.