What is LED lighting?
Light emitting diodes, otherwise known as LEDs, started life as light indicators in electrical components manufactured by Hewlett Packard. The light is a result of electrons releasing energy in the form of photons better known as electroluminescence. So then, let’s explore why are businesses moving towards LED Lighting?
Their energy efficiency, low maintenance, robustness and long life mean that they are an efficient bright alternative to the energy-hungry and delicate analogue light sources we all grew up with.
Originally their cost limited their use as an everyday light source. However with increasing energy prices combined with improved manufacturing process, LEDs have finally become a viable alternative to Thomas Edison’s invention.
Today LEDs are used in televisions, traffic lights, car headlights, torches and signs across the world.
Why should I be using LED lighting?
- LEDs use less energy. One of the most important reason for using LEDs is that they can consume up to 85% less energy than traditional lighting. Being energy efficient is not only good for the environment but it can present huge savings for businesses too. Less power usage means increased cash flow.
- LEDs last longer. The average age for a LED light is 50,000 hours (over 10 years). They can last longer and much will depend upon the application. Even then, they will only need replacing as their light fades.
- LEDs are much safer – LEDs don’t contain any mercury, use low voltage (12-24 volts) and LEDs emit no UV and very little heat so they can be used in areas where too much heat is dangerous.
- LEDs are easier to maintain. LEDs can be left alone and a quick wipe over once in a while is all they need. No lifts to rent to do group relampings.
- LEDs are solid state. In other words, there is no filament or glass to break and they are robust even in wet conditions. They can even be used underwater in some circumstances.
- LEDs are easier to dispose of. Although there is no real way to recycle them at the moment they are tiny and therefore easier and less damaging to the environment than disposing glass bulbs and gas-filled tubing.
- LEDs are much, much smaller. They can therefore be used in much more creative ways than traditional lighting. For example light boxes can be slimmer, LEDs can even be embedded into acrylic panels for certain applications.
I’ve heard it is more expensive?
Initially, the acquisition of LED fixtures can seem more expensive than traditional light bulbs and fluorescent tubes. However after accounting for the savings in energy consumption and maintenance cost, the true cost of these LED fixtures are about one fifth (1/5) of the cost of traditional lights. The savings for industrial and commercial businesses are typically significant. Often times having a large and immediate impact to their cash flow.
What are the products out there ?
There are a variety LEDs to choose from. Even when LEDs come in similar shapes and sizes, keep in mind just because they look similar on the outside, they can be entirely different in many important metrics, sch as lumens, wattage, CCT, and type of LED used. Not all Add variations like smart controls that can regulate everything from brightness and duration of each LED and now you can really maximize the energy savings.
LED grids
LEDs can be bought ready fixed into a sheet of plastic or run along the edge of a piece of acrylic which can then be cut to suit the particular application. The tight formation of these LEDs means that a very area of light can be achieved.
Slimline LED light boxes
When fluorescent tubes are placed too close to the front of a light box you often see a striping effect. Fluorescent tubes are also short lived. If one goes you face an expensive call out for a replacement. LEDs allow for a thinner light box and a more light source for your graphics. Long life and less repair visits can significantly lower your maintenance cost. Just an occasional wipe-over should do it!
Retrofitting non-LED products
There are now retrofitting products that simply fit into current fluorescent and light bulb fittings. This is a short to medium term fix when you have a large amount of traditional lighting, like strip lighting, and do not have the budget to change the fittings. You will instantly benefit from the energy savings associated with LED lighting. The most common products are fluorescent tubing replacement units and halogen replacement spot lights. Personally, this wouldn’t be my first choice, but given individual circumstances, this may be your best option.
Neon replacement LED tubing
Neon is an eye-catching way to advertise your business. It is also very expensive to produce, takes high levels of energy to run and is bad for the environment too. Now you can simulate a neon effect with a range of neon tubing replacements. LED tubing can be cut and bent into any shape, much like traditional neon. But, because it runs cold and uses low voltage, can be installed by anyone – you do not need a qualified electrician to connect to the mains.
Low energy LED products LEDs are low voltage and this gives us an opportunity to use solar power cells and wind turbines for the first time. It is now possible to have an illuminated sign that runs off its own power.
Which products should I use?
The LED market is, like all markets, filled with good products and bad products. LED lights are made on a single sheet called a wafer, much like computer chips. As many as 6000 LEDs can come from just one wafer. There are imperfections across the surface of each wafer so individual LEDs are graduated once they are pressed out. Quality control differs from manufacturer to manufacturer so it is important to make sure you select a trusted supplier. There is a level of quality with LEDs ranging from the whitest, bright lights through to the low cost mass produced LEDs that will not last as long or give you the same quality of light. Understanding that there are differences will allow you to choose the perfect solution for you.
There is little point investing in the cheapest possible LED lighting when the bulbs are going to have a short life-span. The electronics powering the LEDs are also important factors in the results you get from your LED lighting. We understand the technology and are knowledgeable about all the products suitable for our customers. Reach out to us and let one of our in house lighting specialist help you.
