The LED (light-emitting diode) technology is developing rapidly, so each year brings products of better quality, with all the research heading in the direction of more sustainable solutions. On top of that, with the market steadily growing and the manufacturing efficiency improving, the prices are declining, so it’s really no surprise that most facility managers have already upgraded to LED lighting systems. But lately, according to the US Energy Information Administration, even homeowners have been replacing their traditional lighting  with LEDs, and for a good reason. See what the hype is all about!

Energy efficiency

This is pretty much the first thing that springs to mind when mentioning LEDs. Because they are mounted on a flat surface, the diodes aim light in a specific direction – hemispherical, as opposed to spherical, and this significantly reduces wasted light and energy. The result is that about 50% less electricity is spent than when using incandescent, fluorescent, and halogen lighting. Considering that lighting makes an average 7% of the electricity bill for most homes, using LEDs has proven to be cost efficient for homes and businesses alike.

Low maintenance

The expected lifespan of quality LEDs is about 30 000 to 50 000 hours, whereas the average incandescent bulb lasts about 1000 hours. Also, they don’t just “die” on you unexpectedly, they dim over time. This makes LEDs very low-maintenance, which is an important factor in commercial situations and public spaces. And, if you’re thinking about buying LEDs for your home, it’s a purchase that will last at least a decade.

Heat (or lack of it)

LED lights emit very little heat, unlike their incandescent counterparts, which release about 90% of their energy as heat, and fluorescent light bulbs, which release about 80%. So, LEDs are not just incredibly more efficient, but also safer (since traditional lighting actually represents a burn hazard for people and materials). Not to mention, they won’t be heating up your working space when you least need it.

Controllability

Because they are semiconductor devices, LEDs are very compatible with controls, and some can even be dimmed to 10% of light output. The shift from 100% lighting to 10% is smooth and easy on the eyes, making LED lighting very practical and attractive, and more and more people are turning to products such as Azoogi dimmable downlights to improve the atmospheric quality of their interiors. Recessed downlights are used in residential kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms, as well as in most office and commercial spaces.

Flashing

Being constantly switched on and off does not at all affect the lifespan of LED lights, unlike it does for traditional lighting. Consequently, the use of LEDs has become pretty much inevitable in commercial situations – not just for flashing light displays, but also for occupancy or daylight sensors.

Functionality in low temperatures

LED performance increases as temperatures drop. On the other hand, fluorescent lamps require a higher voltage to start in the same situation, and the intensity of their light actually decreases. This is why LED systems are being widely used for lighting refrigerated cases, industrial spaces that must operate at very low temperatures, and urban areas.

Besides all these benefits, LEDs have also become a favorite because of their durability. With more and more people and businesses relying on LEDs, the options are also widening, and now there is much more choice in the general characteristics of the lights, so you can get more atmospheric lighting. Enjoy the process of choosing the kind of light that works for your situation, because it really does make a big difference. When doing this, take into consideration factors such as dimmability, warmth, color, light quality and the way it is distributed.