Before we answer that lets look at how traditional bulbs work:
In a traditional bulb there is a wire filament, basically a very thin coiled wire. When a current is passed through it gets hot and so glows. Just like the ring on an electric stove glows when turned on. A lot of energy is wasted in these bulbs as a lot of the energy is turned into heat, which is great for a stove, not so great for a light source.
Traditional bulbs rule the roost for many years till Compact Fluorescent Lamps CFL's came along. CFs contain no filament and are a bit more complex.Basically the bulb contains a mix of argon gas and mercury vapor. When a current passes through this mix if produces ultraviolet light. This is not much use for our eyes but the inside of the tubes are covered with phosphorus. Ultraviolet light excites the phosphorus which gives off a bright white light. CFL's are moreefficient than traditional filament bulbs, but they do still waste energy in the form of heat and there are environmental concerns with the use of mercury in their manufacture. They do cost more but their longer life means that you do save money in the long run.
Light Emitting Diodes LEDS are the new contenders for lighting your home and office. An LED is made by join two materials which have very special properties. N-types have extra electrons and P-Types which are missing electrons. A match made in heaven.Putting a current though these two materials helps the spare electrons flow from the N type to the P type.When the electrons join onto the P-type energy is released in the form of light. The color of light that is produced depends upon the materials used. This is why so many products originally had red LEDS as it was much easier to make red ones. Now its possible to make a range of colors. White is produced by our old friend phosphorus.
So why are LEDs so great that they get their own blog ?
- They use a lot less energy than conventional bulbs and CFL's. Good for the environment and for your electricity bill
- They last much longer than traditional bulbs and CFL's. Good for the environment and your wallet.An LED can last over 10 years
- Less hazardous to manufacture and use.Safer for the environment and you, no dangerous vapor released or broken glass if you did manage to break one open
- Generate much less heat.Good for your fingers, safer to use around children
