In the United States, it can be easy to take residential electricity services for granted because they are so readily available, as opposed to electrical systems in developing countries. However a combination of increasing emphasis on environmentally sustainable energy solutions and a new generation of eco-savvy consumers have dramatically changed the role of electric utility.
The demand for affordable, sustainable, and low-impact electricity rates has gone beyond searching for the best electric company, with consumers also shopping for the best lighting solutions. Energy comparisons can help consumers determine which eco-friendly lighting solutions are best for their needs.
Light-emitting diode or LED lighting is a rapidly-developing lighting technology has that has irrevocably changed the way spaces are lit. An energy comparison involving LED bulbs with traditional light bulbs would reveal that there simply is no comparison: LED lighting is the future of sustainable lighting. Here’s how:
Serious energy and cost savings
Reducing energy consumptions has a number of both small and large scale benefits. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, residential LED-lighting ? especially Energy Star rated products ? using 75% less energy than traditional incandescent lighting.
A more detailed energy comparison between LED lighting and traditional light bulbs highlights the cost saving benefits of LED lighting. For example, a household that replaces its five most frequently used lighting fixtures with LED light bulbs can expect to save an average of $75 a year.
Longer lifespan
Traditional incandescent lighting pales in comparison to the longevity of LEDs, which do not dim or burn out over time. Quality LED lighting has an expected lifespan of nearly 30,000 to 50,000 hours and perhaps even longer depending on the lighting fixture. On the other hand, the average incandescent bulb lasts a mere 1,000 hours in comparison. Even comparable compact fluorescent or CFL light bulbs fall short of the LED lifespan, only lasting 8,000 to 10,000 in comparison. LED lighting is hassle free, low maintenance, and time saving.
Mercury-free
In addition to reduce energy consumption, energy comparisons reveal LED lighting to be the more eco-friendly choice because they don’t contain mercury, a hazardous heavy metal. CFL lightbulbs contain traces of mercury that can be released into the air and surrounding environment if the bulb is broken. If a CFL bulb is broken, a specific procedure must be followed in order to minimize mercury exposure during clean up. Furthermore, LED light bulbs can be easily recycled.
Energy comparison is always a bright idea when it comes to both electric suppliers and lighting fixtures. Taking the time to do so helps to save the environment while dramatically reducing energy costs. A little extra effort has the potential to save a lot of money in the long run! Just imagine how “green” the world could be if every business or household did their part to reduce energy consumption.