The Cost of LEDs: Start saving sooner than you think

February 5, 2015

When you’re making lighting decisions, the cost of LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) may appear more expensive than competing bulbs. Prices start as low as $5, but are more commonly in the $10-$20 range. However, that initial investment is quickly rewarded with savings, which start the moment you install the bulbs.

• See the difference on energy bills: LEDs offer immediate and long-term energy savings, delivering lower power bills than traditional incandescent bulbs or CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lights). LEDs use from 75-80% percent less energy compared to older inefficient bulbs. The average LED light uses between 2 and 17 watts of electricity.
• Save money long-term on replacement costs: There’s a good chance that you may move or switch jobs before an LED you installed needs to be replaced. LEDs can last for 11 years, operating continuously. With a lifespan 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs and 10 times as long as CFL bulbs, LEDs offering dramatic savings on bulb replacements over the life of the light.
• In addition, there are hidden savings: Incandescent bulbs waste much of their energy - up to 90 percent - creating heat. CFL bulbs are similarly wasteful, releasing up to 80 percent of their energy as heat. LEDs create almost no heat, less than 5 percent of what incandescent bulbs generate. Because of this difference, buildings that switch to LEDs may also see savings on cooling costs.

Due to the improvements in quality and long-term energy savings, LEDs are expected to become more popular than CFLs by 2018. That shift may improve the way commercial buildings look, too. LEDs offer better range of light options than CFLs. LEDs are also excellent at directing light, making them an excellent choice for task applications. When positioned in a strategic way, the ability to target light may allow facility managers or designers to create the same lighting quality with fewer lights.

Even as the quality and versatility of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) has improved, costs for this bright new technology have consistently dropped. This energy-efficient technology will continue to require even less of an initial investment for all its long-term benefits.

For more information about how to save money on your lighting costs, contact us.