A simple task like picking a light bulb can be very intimidating because of all the options available to us. One thing’s for certain: we’re told to switch the light bulbs in our homes from incandescents to energy efficient LEDs. But what’s the difference between the two? What are the downsides of using LEDs?
Incandescent Light Bulbs
Incandescent light bulbs work by using a coiled piece of tungsten metal, which heats up when electricity passes through it. This process releases energy in the form of light, known as incandescence. The tungsten filament is housed in a glass bulb filled with inert gas to prevent rapid oxidation. However, incandescent bulbs are inefficient, as only 10% of the energy used generates light, while the remaining 90% is wasted as heat. Additionally, the tungsten filament gradually evaporates over time, leading to black spots inside the bulb.
Light Emitting Diode LED Bulbs
LED bulbs function differently, utilizing a semiconductor material like gallium arsenide or gallium phosphide. The diode within an LED allows current to flow in one direction, and when electricity is applied, electrons move from one material to another, releasing energy in the form of light. Unlike incandescent bulbs, LEDs do not rely on heat to produce light, resulting in cooler temperatures of around 150°F or 65°C. LED bulbs are much more energy-efficient, with 40% of the energy used generating light, and the remaining 60% generating heat.
Comparison
- Lifespan: Incandescent bulbs last approximately 1,500 hours, while LEDs can have a lifespan of up to 30,000 hours. However, it’s essential to be cautious when purchasing cheap LEDs, as some may not live up to their claimed lifespan.
- Cost: Incandescent bulbs are initially cheaper, but the long-term cost savings with LEDs make them a more economical choice. LEDs consume significantly less energy, resulting in substantial electricity savings over time.
- Heat: Incandescent bulbs are heat-resistant and can be used in certain high-temperature environments. LEDs, on the other hand, are not suitable for ovens and can melt or release toxic fumes if exposed to high heat.
- Dimmability: All incandescent bulbs are dimmable, but not all LEDs support dimming. It’s crucial to ensure you have a compatible dimmer switch for dimmable LEDs.
- Color Rendering Index (CRI): Incandescent bulbs have a CRI close to 100, replicating natural daylight. LED bulbs can vary in CRI from 80 to 98, affecting how colors appear under their light.
- Blue Light Issues: LED bulbs emit more blue light, which can disrupt circadian rhythms, affect sleep patterns, and lead to eye fatigue. High-quality LED bulbs with lower blue light emission are recommended for better health and well-being.
- Dimmability. All incandescent bulbs are dimmable. Not all LEDs are dimmable. If you try to cut off a portion of the electricity, you will strain the driver within your LEDs and decrease its lifespan.
- Different colors. On a more fun note, certain LEDs use red, green and blue lights to create a range of colors. You can switch them using a tiny microcontroller in the bulb and control them with an app. If you want yellow, the bulb turns on red and green. For cyan, it turns on green and blue. For white, it turns them all on.
Conclusion
In conclusion, LEDs are a superior choice for most lighting needs due to their energy efficiency, longer lifespan, and versatility. However, it’s essential to be mindful of factors like color temperature and blue light emission. Quality LED bulbs can provide excellent lighting while promoting a comfortable and healthy living environment. Consider your specific lighting requirements and opt for reputable brands to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
