LED lighting is increasingly becoming popular for outdoor and residential lighting. LED lighting is a more efficient and durable option than traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs. This is not surprising. However, the high cost makes it seem expensive. What are the advantages of LED landscape lighting? Is it worth replacing your current landscape lighting system?
Continue reading to learn more about LEDs, their uses, and the many benefits they offer for landscape lighting.
What does LED stand for?
LED stands for “Light Emitting Diode” and is a type of semiconductor that emits light as current passes through it. Solid-state devices are also known as LEDs because they emit light from solid semiconductor materials. This technology is completely different from the heated filaments used in traditional incandescent or halogen lamps or gas discharge as in fluorescent lights.
What is the Secret to Their Success?
The electrons and electron holes combine to create light. This energy is released when current flows through the diode. Light is not emitted by heat, but by electrons directly. The energy gap in the semiconductor determines the color of the light.
LEDs are able to produce a wide range of colors while using minimal energy.
The Benefits of LED Landscape Lighting
The benefits of LED landscape lighting may not be obvious at first glance. This is especially true when you consider that LEDs can cost 6 times more than compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). The upfront price of LEDs for outdoor lighting can discourage consumers from purchasing them. Their manufacturing process is improving, which means that prices are becoming more affordable. LED lighting offers many benefits.
1. EFFICIENCY
Energy efficiency is one of the biggest benefits of LED landscape lighting. LEDs are among the most efficient bulbs available. They emit directional light and don’t require heat to operate. They are therefore more efficient than halogen and incandescent lamps. Energy Star-rated LEDs use around 75 percent less energy and last 25x longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
2. DURABILITY
LED chips are extremely durable due to the absence of filaments and insulation with plastic. They can withstand shock and vibration and work well even in extreme temperature fluctuations. This is especially important for outdoor lighting. They are available in high-quality finishes like brass, bronze, or copper which adds to their durability.
3. ENVIRONMENT
They are a viable choice for landscape lighting systems because of their energy efficiency and long-lasting durability. However, they do not contain harmful elements like mercury. LEDs are also more eco-friendly than conventional bulbs because they don’t have to be recycled.
4. COSTS
While the initial investment may seem expensive, LEDs are extremely energy-efficient and can pay off very quickly. You can save up to 80 percent on your monthly electricity bills by switching to LED landscape lighting.
5. SAFETY
LEDs emit very little heat. 95 percent of their energy converts into light and five percent as heat. This gives them a cool touch and minimizes the chance of fire or burns.
6. CONTROL
LEDs emit directional lighting, which is a benefit over other options. This reduces light pollution and gives you greater control over what can be illuminated. If you choose to use dimmers or replaceable optics LED lighting, you will have more control. This allows you to adjust your beam angle.
7. MAINTENANCE
LEDs have a 10-time longer lifespan than conventional bulbs and are therefore the most maintenance-free option on the market. LED landscape lighting can last for up to 20 years (averaging eight hours per night) and requires very little maintenance.
8. RETROFITTING
Many homeowners mistakenly believe that changing to LEDs will require replacing their entire outdoor lighting system. This can lead to a large investment. Existing systems can easily be retrofitted with LEDs. There are replacements for most light fittings, but you need to choose the correct voltage.
9. QUALITY LIGHT
Landscape lighting, such as architectural lighting, is a great use for LEDs. Their color temperature and natural color rendering make them more valuable than conventional bulbs. Color rendering is an objective parameter (values greater than 90 are ideal). However, color temperature is a matter of personal preference. LEDs come in many options, making it easier for you to choose the best one for your needs.
10. FAR FEWER PESTS
While it might not be something you think of when you plan your outdoor lighting, LEDs can keep summer bugs at bay so you can enjoy your patio long after the sun sets. Because LEDs emit less UV light than the ones that attract insects, they are not as effective at repelling them.
Summarising
The advantages of LED landscape lighting far outweigh those offered by halogen and incandescent lamps. LED landscape lighting systems are more efficient, safer, and more cost effective than traditional lights.
This article was written by a lighting specialist at LD lighting. LD Lighting was Established in 2017 and is located in Central Florida, LD Lighting offers services in screen enclosure lighting, pool lighting, outdoor entertainment, and Landscape Lighting in Bradenton FL. We promise to give you the best quality of work and bring your ideas to life.