In a world of increasing environmental awareness, the demand for energy efficient lighting is constantly growing. Many people and businesses are seeking lighting options that not only reduce energy consumption, but are cost efficient and highly functional. LED tube lighting may offer a solution for many consumers.
What are LEDs? LED is an abbreviation for light-emitting diode. LEDs are basically small semiconductor chips that illuminate when they conduct electricity. Conventional incandescent lighting works by producing light as a by product of a wastefully heated filament. But the majority of the energy conducted by LEDs is converted into light, so LEDs are almost twice as efficient as comparable incandescent bulbs.
Recent advances in fluorescent lighting technology has made compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) an increasingly popular energy saving option for consumers. But LED lighting is even more efficient in the long run because of its long lifespan. LEDs can last 50-75 times longer than incandescent lights and 6-8 times longer than CFLs. While the upfront costs for LEDs remains more expensive than incandescents and fluorescents, the extreme efficiency and long life make them both a cost saver and an energy saver over time.
Furthermore, LEDs do not present the potential environmental and health risks that fluorescent lights do. Many fluorescent lights contain mercury, which is highly toxic. While CFLs usually only contain small amounts of mercury, any exposure to mercury is a potential risk. Also, improperly disposed CFLs potentially lead to long-term health and environmental risks as the mercury builds up in landfills and nearby groundwater. Many CFLs are also coated with a phosphor coating that can pose risks for breakage and disposal.
Anyone who has worked in an office or warehouse with fluorescent tube lighting knows about the irritation and distraction of constantly flickering lights. In some cases, fluorescent flickering over long periods can even cause vision and eye problems. Another advantage of tube lighting with LEDs is the elimination of flickering. LEDs do lose their luminosity of time, but the output for their advertised lifespan is a steady, clear stream of light.
LED lighting seems like a clear option for those seeking energy and cost efficiency, but until recently LEDs have primarily been used display and indicator lighting. But now, LED technology is beginning to produce lighting with the illumination needed for general, everyday use. And, as we have seen with other semiconductor technology, the chance are that LED lighting will only get more versatile and efficient.
LED tube lighting is presents an energy efficient and environmentally friendly option for most businesses and consumers. The upfront costs for LED lighting may be higher than other options, but the long term savings and benefits potentially far outweigh those initial costs. And, as LED technology improves, the savings and benefits can only improve as well.
Looking for lighting options that not only cut energy consumption, but are also affordable and highly functional? LED lighting is the solution. More information now in our LED tube light overview!
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