Commercial & Industrial Electrical ContractorThere has been a lot of hype about alternative lighting technology - and it is definitely true that incandescent bulbs are bad in terms of energy efficiency. Not only do they use more power, but they have to be replaced more often, which means more of them are needed, wasting energy and materials.
The latest thing is LED lighting, which is touted as even more efficient than CFLs - but is it? Some comparison testing shows that for the same amount of light, LEDs and CFLs are about equal. LEDs have the edge because they last longer - in fact, there are LED bulbs on the market with 25,000 hour expected lifespans. That's about 20 years in normal usage. However, they are more expensive than the difference in lifespan warrants. Other tests show that residential LEDs use about 50% less energy than CFLs - so in some ways the jury is still out.
So, if there is no huge increase in efficiency in LEDs, are there reasons to choose them? Absolutely. One reason is if the fixture is located somewhere that makes changing the bulb a challenge. Use an LED, and you might never have to change that fixture again.
A second is that CFL bulbs contain mercury. Because of this, they are considered hazardous waste and have to be disposed of accordingly. Most jurisdictions have some system for this, but you cannot just put them in the trash. If one breaks, you have a difficult cleanup on your hands, including potentially having to leave your heat or a/c off for hours.
LEDs also emit very little heat, which can be useful in some situations. They do not require reflectors when used for downlights or task lighting, which can be very helpful.
In other words, LEDs may or may not be more efficient than CFLs, but they are somewhat better in other ways.
If you're looking for a professional commercial electrical contractor for industrial lighting services, contact the team at C&J Electrical Services today.