Hydroponics Gardening With LED Grow Lights
Susan Slobac asked:
It’s a well known fact that hydroponics gardening requires grow lights. Choosing a powerful grow lamp to light the plants properly in order for photosynthesis to occur and for the plants to grow and thrive is the key to success. Lighting is crucial to every kind of indoor gardening situation, because without adequate light, the plants will be stunted and not grow to their full potential. LED grow lights can be used to good effect in an indoor plant growing situation.
LED refers to light-emitting diode. A diode has two terminals, and it allows current to flow in one direction and not in another. It is a simple semiconductor.
Photons are units of light. Atoms contain photons, and it is the photons that produce light. They produce light when electrons move around and change positions. Electrical current, in an LED lamp, flows across the diode, and when this happens, it causes a change in the movement of the electrons. The positively-charged electrons will move in the opposite direction from the negatively-charged electrons. A semiconductor is made more conductive to electrical flow when free electrons are added to the conductor material, creating negatively charged areas, or when they are taken away, leaving gaps in the chain, and positively charged areas. Electrical current flows over these areas, and it causes the electrons to move. The side effect of all this movement is the production of light.
The color of the light emitted by these types of grow lamps is based on the size of the gap in the electron chain. The gap size affects the frequency of the photon, and this is why it has an impact on the color of the light produced. Low-frequency light produced by an LED light is used to light remote controls for one of many common examples, because it it infrared light.
If you are growing plants indoors, then the color of the light that your grow light emits is quite vital to your plants’ health. Young plants at the seedling stage require blue light in order to grow properly. Mature plants, such as a flowering or fruiting plants, require red and orange light in order to get the plants to produce the flowers and fruit that you want. All of this is dependent on the light that you use with your plants. LED lamps come in a wide variety of colors, so it is easy to get the exact grow lamps you need in order to get the results you want from your indoor plants.
The advantage to using LED lights is that they do not get hot as they are in operation, and they also do not have a filament, which you find in incandescent light bulbs, so they often have a longer productive life because of this.
It’s a well known fact that hydroponics gardening requires grow lights. Choosing a powerful grow lamp to light the plants properly in order for photosynthesis to occur and for the plants to grow and thrive is the key to success. Lighting is crucial to every kind of indoor gardening situation, because without adequate light, the plants will be stunted and not grow to their full potential. LED grow lights can be used to good effect in an indoor plant growing situation.
LED refers to light-emitting diode. A diode has two terminals, and it allows current to flow in one direction and not in another. It is a simple semiconductor.
Photons are units of light. Atoms contain photons, and it is the photons that produce light. They produce light when electrons move around and change positions. Electrical current, in an LED lamp, flows across the diode, and when this happens, it causes a change in the movement of the electrons. The positively-charged electrons will move in the opposite direction from the negatively-charged electrons. A semiconductor is made more conductive to electrical flow when free electrons are added to the conductor material, creating negatively charged areas, or when they are taken away, leaving gaps in the chain, and positively charged areas. Electrical current flows over these areas, and it causes the electrons to move. The side effect of all this movement is the production of light.
The color of the light emitted by these types of grow lamps is based on the size of the gap in the electron chain. The gap size affects the frequency of the photon, and this is why it has an impact on the color of the light produced. Low-frequency light produced by an LED light is used to light remote controls for one of many common examples, because it it infrared light.
If you are growing plants indoors, then the color of the light that your grow light emits is quite vital to your plants’ health. Young plants at the seedling stage require blue light in order to grow properly. Mature plants, such as a flowering or fruiting plants, require red and orange light in order to get the plants to produce the flowers and fruit that you want. All of this is dependent on the light that you use with your plants. LED lamps come in a wide variety of colors, so it is easy to get the exact grow lamps you need in order to get the results you want from your indoor plants.
The advantage to using LED lights is that they do not get hot as they are in operation, and they also do not have a filament, which you find in incandescent light bulbs, so they often have a longer productive life because of this.
Benefits and Uses of LED Lighting
Imran ali asked:
Are you looking for state-of-the-art LED lighting? This article will educate you about some of the most noticeable benefits of these small yet powerful lights in terms of cost effectiveness and environmental uses. LED is short for Light Emitting Diode. LED lights are made up of small semiconductor diodes that emit blue, green and red light when an electric current is passed through them. Using these three basic colors, all other colors can be produced by combining them in different proportions. Basically these types of lights are used as indicators and for other special purposes like Christmas lighting and for use in flashlights and car lights.
Because LED lights are very efficient in terms of saving energy and cost, they are popular all over the world. All kinds of LED lights are provided by renowned manufactures across the globe. These lights include high-power LEDs, low-power LEDs, sign displays, remote control devices, household bulbs, car kits, rope lights and strips. White-colored LED lamps and energy-saver lights are very common and good at their job. They can operate continuously for hours and hours without becoming dim or weak. High-power and strong LED lights are expected to last for many years.
LED industry leaders have estimated that good quality LED lighting can last for 50,000 to 100,000 hours. Usually these kinds of lights require 9 to 14V DC power which is very low as compared to power required by traditional lighting. Furthermore, they are easy to install and carry around in case you need to move to a new place. They can be stored in a compact storage place and come very handy on special occasions like birthday parties, weddings and Christmas celebrations. Another advantage of these small lights is that they are made water proof and can be installed in any area of your choice.
LED lighting has been found to be superior to incandescent light bulbs and fluorescent tubes in terms of longer and more useful life. These lights also have a faster response time as compared to other types of lights and become fully bright in a matter of microseconds. They can also be used in electronic and electrical experiments where they are required to test passage of electric current through a circuit. They do not contain mercury and are therefore very safe. In fact they can be used to test various circuits where high voltage is expected to be used in order to be safe and avoid electric shock.
Although LEDs are more expensive than other type of lighting, they are very cost effective in the long run. First of all, they save energy. And secondly, they operate for a much longer duration than ordinary fluorescent lights or tubes. Their design flexibility, powerful nature, small size and availability in almost all kinds of colors make them an attractive choice for household use. They are also safe to be used around children as they do not produce much heat. Visible LEDs do not produce any ultraviolet radiation and are therefore useful for a wide range of purposes.
So, you see LED lighting has many advantages over other types of lighting. It is not only cost-effective but also very safe and useful. Different kinds of LED bulbs are now utilized for household use to produce super bright and continuous light. They are also used for entertainment and architectural lighting as part of sophisticated and state-of-the-art interior design. Many people use LED bulbs as portable lights for different purposes. They provide environmental protection and come in many colors including blue, white, red, yellow and green. Red and yellow LED lights are often used in advertisements and sign displays. LED rope lights and strips are used all over the world for wedding decorations and concerts.
Are you looking for state-of-the-art LED lighting? This article will educate you about some of the most noticeable benefits of these small yet powerful lights in terms of cost effectiveness and environmental uses. LED is short for Light Emitting Diode. LED lights are made up of small semiconductor diodes that emit blue, green and red light when an electric current is passed through them. Using these three basic colors, all other colors can be produced by combining them in different proportions. Basically these types of lights are used as indicators and for other special purposes like Christmas lighting and for use in flashlights and car lights.
Because LED lights are very efficient in terms of saving energy and cost, they are popular all over the world. All kinds of LED lights are provided by renowned manufactures across the globe. These lights include high-power LEDs, low-power LEDs, sign displays, remote control devices, household bulbs, car kits, rope lights and strips. White-colored LED lamps and energy-saver lights are very common and good at their job. They can operate continuously for hours and hours without becoming dim or weak. High-power and strong LED lights are expected to last for many years.
LED industry leaders have estimated that good quality LED lighting can last for 50,000 to 100,000 hours. Usually these kinds of lights require 9 to 14V DC power which is very low as compared to power required by traditional lighting. Furthermore, they are easy to install and carry around in case you need to move to a new place. They can be stored in a compact storage place and come very handy on special occasions like birthday parties, weddings and Christmas celebrations. Another advantage of these small lights is that they are made water proof and can be installed in any area of your choice.
LED lighting has been found to be superior to incandescent light bulbs and fluorescent tubes in terms of longer and more useful life. These lights also have a faster response time as compared to other types of lights and become fully bright in a matter of microseconds. They can also be used in electronic and electrical experiments where they are required to test passage of electric current through a circuit. They do not contain mercury and are therefore very safe. In fact they can be used to test various circuits where high voltage is expected to be used in order to be safe and avoid electric shock.
Although LEDs are more expensive than other type of lighting, they are very cost effective in the long run. First of all, they save energy. And secondly, they operate for a much longer duration than ordinary fluorescent lights or tubes. Their design flexibility, powerful nature, small size and availability in almost all kinds of colors make them an attractive choice for household use. They are also safe to be used around children as they do not produce much heat. Visible LEDs do not produce any ultraviolet radiation and are therefore useful for a wide range of purposes.
So, you see LED lighting has many advantages over other types of lighting. It is not only cost-effective but also very safe and useful. Different kinds of LED bulbs are now utilized for household use to produce super bright and continuous light. They are also used for entertainment and architectural lighting as part of sophisticated and state-of-the-art interior design. Many people use LED bulbs as portable lights for different purposes. They provide environmental protection and come in many colors including blue, white, red, yellow and green. Red and yellow LED lights are often used in advertisements and sign displays. LED rope lights and strips are used all over the world for wedding decorations and concerts.
Battery Lights
Katie asked:
Battery Operated Lights.
Battery operated lights have come a long way. Many people believe batteries are a fairly new invention. Did you know the first battery was invented in 1800? Or that the first flashlight was made in 1898? Now, those batteries were not the kind you and I think of today. They were actually quite unstable and not very reliable. Lets take a look at how battery lights came to be.
History of Lights.
Light has been used by man for a long time. Light gives our plants energy, which in turn feeds us. We also get vitamin D from light. Before modern scientific times, light was something that was thought just to be seen by our eyes. By the 1500′s and 1600′s though, telescopes, microscopes and new lenses were being invented. We could then see things on a smaller scope. Isaac Newton discovered the color spectrum in 1666. Soon the electric light bulb was invented by Thomas Edison. Light is useful in many aspects of our life. It helps us to see at night, directs traffic, helps us see while we read and gives us light for photography. It’s also useful in areas of health such as giving our food vitamin A, helping plants to grow and fights disease. We use light for everything now a days.
History of Batteries.
Batteries came on the scene around 1800. Batteries were invented by an Italian, Volta. They were rather unstable because they were wet cell batteries. For that reason, wet cell batteries were used to power stationary devices. In 1859, the first rechargeable battery was invented by Gaston Plante. Finally a dry cell battery was invented in 1887 by Carl Gassner that was much safer to use and portable. It changed the liquid material into a paste to make it more stable. In 1955, alkaline batteries were introduced to the public. Up until then, batteries had a short life and were very expensive.
Battery Lights, Together.
Batteries and lights came together. The first battery operated lights were flashlights. Today though, we have battery operated lights. Many Christmas tree lights are battery powered. It allows for mobility of your tree. Also, many people use battery lights for weddings. Battery operated lights are popular for outdoor weddings where electrical outlets are unavailable. You can also string the battery lights through the bouquets to make them shine at an evening ceremony. Actually, battery lights are popular for almost any occasion. The flexibility of battery operated lights allows them to be used almost anywhere.
LED Lights.
LED lights are becoming very popular. LED stands for light emitting diode. They use very little energy and put out much less heat. This attracts many people trying to save on their electric bill, especially with rising energy costs. LED lights are more expensive, right now, but the total cost of ownership is far less then the average incandescent light. LED lights produce more light than the average bulb, per watt. LED lights are the way of the future.
Battery Operated Lights.
Battery operated lights have come a long way. Many people believe batteries are a fairly new invention. Did you know the first battery was invented in 1800? Or that the first flashlight was made in 1898? Now, those batteries were not the kind you and I think of today. They were actually quite unstable and not very reliable. Lets take a look at how battery lights came to be.
History of Lights.
Light has been used by man for a long time. Light gives our plants energy, which in turn feeds us. We also get vitamin D from light. Before modern scientific times, light was something that was thought just to be seen by our eyes. By the 1500′s and 1600′s though, telescopes, microscopes and new lenses were being invented. We could then see things on a smaller scope. Isaac Newton discovered the color spectrum in 1666. Soon the electric light bulb was invented by Thomas Edison. Light is useful in many aspects of our life. It helps us to see at night, directs traffic, helps us see while we read and gives us light for photography. It’s also useful in areas of health such as giving our food vitamin A, helping plants to grow and fights disease. We use light for everything now a days.
History of Batteries.
Batteries came on the scene around 1800. Batteries were invented by an Italian, Volta. They were rather unstable because they were wet cell batteries. For that reason, wet cell batteries were used to power stationary devices. In 1859, the first rechargeable battery was invented by Gaston Plante. Finally a dry cell battery was invented in 1887 by Carl Gassner that was much safer to use and portable. It changed the liquid material into a paste to make it more stable. In 1955, alkaline batteries were introduced to the public. Up until then, batteries had a short life and were very expensive.
Battery Lights, Together.
Batteries and lights came together. The first battery operated lights were flashlights. Today though, we have battery operated lights. Many Christmas tree lights are battery powered. It allows for mobility of your tree. Also, many people use battery lights for weddings. Battery operated lights are popular for outdoor weddings where electrical outlets are unavailable. You can also string the battery lights through the bouquets to make them shine at an evening ceremony. Actually, battery lights are popular for almost any occasion. The flexibility of battery operated lights allows them to be used almost anywhere.
LED Lights.
LED lights are becoming very popular. LED stands for light emitting diode. They use very little energy and put out much less heat. This attracts many people trying to save on their electric bill, especially with rising energy costs. LED lights are more expensive, right now, but the total cost of ownership is far less then the average incandescent light. LED lights produce more light than the average bulb, per watt. LED lights are the way of the future.
Are Mh and Hps Grow Lights Done for
Susan Slobac asked:
When it comes to grow light solutions, it seems as if there are as many choices as there are varieties of plants for your garden. The two main grow lights, Metal Halide (MH) and High Pressure Sodium (HPS) are High Intensity Discharge (HID) lights used in hydroponic gardening. Metal Halide grow lights are generally used during a plant’s growing cycle – i.e., when it is not blooming or bearing fruit. HPS lights are used during a plant’s fruiting/blooming phase. There are two sub-types of HPS lighting: one is enhanced for the blue spectrum, which is better for fruiting, and the other is red spectrum enhanced, which specific benefits flowering. In addition, there are mercury-vapor lamps, which are similar to modern streetlights, and fluorescent grow lights.
All indoor grow lights make use of what is known as a ballast system. With MH and HPS lights, these are remote, meaning that an external box is required in order to house an electronic pre-heating system, which in turn runs the lamp itself.
Historically, all types of HID grow lights have a useful life of approximately 1 – 1-1/2 years. Although they will usually operate beyond this time, their luminescence is compromised – meaning that they will produce substantially less light, yet continue to consume the same amount of electricity.
With the advent of LED grow lights, are HPS and MH lights obsolete?
LED stands for “Light-Emitting Diode.” LED lights have actually been around for a long time – some people who built models of spacecraft from popular science fiction may recall the old “grain-o-wheat” bulbs used to illuminate them. LED lights have also been used in calculators, digital displays and movement sensors (your new cordless optical mouse probably has a motion-sensing LED device).
Unlike most traditional types of glow lights – each of which have its own specific application – LED grow lights can be tuned to specific wavelengths according to the needs of the particular plant. LED grow lights are also much more efficient, using only a fraction of the energy required even by fluorescent lights while providing much greater luminescence.
The best part of LED grow lights is their durability. Unlike MH or HPS lights which usually must be replaced after 18 months, LED lamps are built to function for up to 100,000 hours – nearly twelve years with normal usage averaging 18 hours per day.
Another feature of LED grow lights that make them superior to other types is the substantially lower amount of hear produced. Unlike other types of grow lights, LEDs are cool burning. This means that less heat is produced to affect the plant, nor will an elaborate ventilation system be required in order to carry away excess heat.
The drawback of LED grow lights is their relative expense; they require a greater initial investment than most other types of grow lights. However, because of their efficiency and durability, they quickly pay for themselves in terms of long-term energy savings.
When it comes to grow light solutions, it seems as if there are as many choices as there are varieties of plants for your garden. The two main grow lights, Metal Halide (MH) and High Pressure Sodium (HPS) are High Intensity Discharge (HID) lights used in hydroponic gardening. Metal Halide grow lights are generally used during a plant’s growing cycle – i.e., when it is not blooming or bearing fruit. HPS lights are used during a plant’s fruiting/blooming phase. There are two sub-types of HPS lighting: one is enhanced for the blue spectrum, which is better for fruiting, and the other is red spectrum enhanced, which specific benefits flowering. In addition, there are mercury-vapor lamps, which are similar to modern streetlights, and fluorescent grow lights.
All indoor grow lights make use of what is known as a ballast system. With MH and HPS lights, these are remote, meaning that an external box is required in order to house an electronic pre-heating system, which in turn runs the lamp itself.
Historically, all types of HID grow lights have a useful life of approximately 1 – 1-1/2 years. Although they will usually operate beyond this time, their luminescence is compromised – meaning that they will produce substantially less light, yet continue to consume the same amount of electricity.
With the advent of LED grow lights, are HPS and MH lights obsolete?
LED stands for “Light-Emitting Diode.” LED lights have actually been around for a long time – some people who built models of spacecraft from popular science fiction may recall the old “grain-o-wheat” bulbs used to illuminate them. LED lights have also been used in calculators, digital displays and movement sensors (your new cordless optical mouse probably has a motion-sensing LED device).
Unlike most traditional types of glow lights – each of which have its own specific application – LED grow lights can be tuned to specific wavelengths according to the needs of the particular plant. LED grow lights are also much more efficient, using only a fraction of the energy required even by fluorescent lights while providing much greater luminescence.
The best part of LED grow lights is their durability. Unlike MH or HPS lights which usually must be replaced after 18 months, LED lamps are built to function for up to 100,000 hours – nearly twelve years with normal usage averaging 18 hours per day.
Another feature of LED grow lights that make them superior to other types is the substantially lower amount of hear produced. Unlike other types of grow lights, LEDs are cool burning. This means that less heat is produced to affect the plant, nor will an elaborate ventilation system be required in order to carry away excess heat.
The drawback of LED grow lights is their relative expense; they require a greater initial investment than most other types of grow lights. However, because of their efficiency and durability, they quickly pay for themselves in terms of long-term energy savings.
Golf Course and Driving Range Lighting
Kimberly Quang asked:
In order to accommodate both the sophisticated country club and the public driving range, golf course and driving range lighting fixtures come in a wide variety of finishes that offer durable protection from the elements and an aesthetic compliment appropriate to a particular facility. Conservative establishments with a cost-consciousness for operations spending can greatly benefit from any number of options in low voltage putting green lights or high voltage fluorescent golf course lights. These golf lights use considerably less power than incandescent-based technology and dispel shadows with glare free lighting that allow for accurate shots at any hour of the night. Resorts and country clubs will greatly appreciate the eclectic range of both wood and steel poles and lighting poles that can be utilized for any number of eclectic design combinations to compliment outdoor lighting and exterior architecture.
Golf lights are normally divided into two categories : putting green lights and driving range lights. In most cases, large driving ranges require a custom golf course lighting design consisting of either 400-watt or 1000-watt fixtures mounted on steel or wooden poles which can ordered along with fixtures and accessories from a sports lighting design specialist. Sports lighting specialists will help both individual electricians and professional lighting firms match fixture to mount in order to fulfill the eclectic design requirements of lavish resorts and exclusive retreats.
Putting green lights can be obtained in either high voltage or low voltage models. Fluorescent 120V lamps conserve power and feature a bulb life of up to 10,000 hours. This offers a competitive advantage to the contractor proposing a system to a client concerned about replacement costs in the midst of the recession, as it offers any organization the benefit of a single purchase that will last for many years. During special times of the year such as Christmas, these putting green lights can even be adjusted for softer lighting conditions, decorative landscape lighting, or special theme lighting on the golf course. Halogen lamps are also available in a variety of wattages, and all lamp types are fully protected by durable Solite tempered glass that prevents ball impacts from breaking the bulb. Sheik black pedestals that provide exceptional mounts for putting green light fixtures to provide an all around compliment for a wide range of residential, private, municipal parks, and adjacent building architecture.
Smaller golf courses that are considering contracting a local electrician to install driving range lights and putting green lighting fixtures should emphasize to their vendor the importance of using only commercial grade golf lights. Many freelance electricians may consider offering a savings bundled into their proposals by recommending retail driving range and putting green light fixtures as a cost cutting options. This is never advisable for a number of reasons. Retail-grade lenses offer much less impact resistance to golf balls and will often break- resulting in both replacement costs and additional labor rates. Wiring is also generally inferior in retail golf light fixtures, deteriorating more rapidly and resulting in short circuits shorter lamp life. Investing only a marginally larger amount in equipment that will last several years longer represents a single purchase that is both economically recession proof and aesthetically superior due to more variety in finish, mounting, and customized design options.
Creating a golf course lighting design that illuminates the greens and compliments aesthetic décor may take more than technical fixture selection to serve the needs of a resort or exclusive country club. Contractors, electricians, and employees are encouraged to work with a sports lighting consultant to ensure that optimal foot candles are generated and light pollution is minimized.
In order to accommodate both the sophisticated country club and the public driving range, golf course and driving range lighting fixtures come in a wide variety of finishes that offer durable protection from the elements and an aesthetic compliment appropriate to a particular facility. Conservative establishments with a cost-consciousness for operations spending can greatly benefit from any number of options in low voltage putting green lights or high voltage fluorescent golf course lights. These golf lights use considerably less power than incandescent-based technology and dispel shadows with glare free lighting that allow for accurate shots at any hour of the night. Resorts and country clubs will greatly appreciate the eclectic range of both wood and steel poles and lighting poles that can be utilized for any number of eclectic design combinations to compliment outdoor lighting and exterior architecture.
Golf lights are normally divided into two categories : putting green lights and driving range lights. In most cases, large driving ranges require a custom golf course lighting design consisting of either 400-watt or 1000-watt fixtures mounted on steel or wooden poles which can ordered along with fixtures and accessories from a sports lighting design specialist. Sports lighting specialists will help both individual electricians and professional lighting firms match fixture to mount in order to fulfill the eclectic design requirements of lavish resorts and exclusive retreats.
Putting green lights can be obtained in either high voltage or low voltage models. Fluorescent 120V lamps conserve power and feature a bulb life of up to 10,000 hours. This offers a competitive advantage to the contractor proposing a system to a client concerned about replacement costs in the midst of the recession, as it offers any organization the benefit of a single purchase that will last for many years. During special times of the year such as Christmas, these putting green lights can even be adjusted for softer lighting conditions, decorative landscape lighting, or special theme lighting on the golf course. Halogen lamps are also available in a variety of wattages, and all lamp types are fully protected by durable Solite tempered glass that prevents ball impacts from breaking the bulb. Sheik black pedestals that provide exceptional mounts for putting green light fixtures to provide an all around compliment for a wide range of residential, private, municipal parks, and adjacent building architecture.
Smaller golf courses that are considering contracting a local electrician to install driving range lights and putting green lighting fixtures should emphasize to their vendor the importance of using only commercial grade golf lights. Many freelance electricians may consider offering a savings bundled into their proposals by recommending retail driving range and putting green light fixtures as a cost cutting options. This is never advisable for a number of reasons. Retail-grade lenses offer much less impact resistance to golf balls and will often break- resulting in both replacement costs and additional labor rates. Wiring is also generally inferior in retail golf light fixtures, deteriorating more rapidly and resulting in short circuits shorter lamp life. Investing only a marginally larger amount in equipment that will last several years longer represents a single purchase that is both economically recession proof and aesthetically superior due to more variety in finish, mounting, and customized design options.
Creating a golf course lighting design that illuminates the greens and compliments aesthetic décor may take more than technical fixture selection to serve the needs of a resort or exclusive country club. Contractors, electricians, and employees are encouraged to work with a sports lighting consultant to ensure that optimal foot candles are generated and light pollution is minimized.
11 Ways to Save Energy and Money by Switching to LED Lighting
Steve Hanson asked:
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are becoming far more common for indoor lighting solutions due to their human and environmental safety, cost, and longevity. An LED is a solid-state semiconductor diode that emits light when an electrical current is applied in the forward direction of the device, as in the simple LED circuit. The effect is a form of electro-luminescence where incoherent and narrow-spectrum light is emitted.
LEDs are widely used as indicator lights on electronic devices and increasingly in higher power applications such as flashlights and area lighting. An LED is usually a small area light source, often with optics added to the chip to shape its radiation pattern and assist in reflection. The color of the emitted light depends on the composition and condition of the semi-conducting material used, and can be infrared, visible, or ultraviolet.
Why Choose LED Lighting?
1. The LED advantage: LED (light emitting diodes) are solid state technology and offers the most efficient (energy savings) form of lighting available. In comparison to conventional incandescent light bulbs, LEDs can be equated at approximately 7 to 8 time equivalence. For example, a 3 watt LED can produce as much illumination as a 20 watt incandescent light bulb.
2. On average, LEDs last 3 to 5 times longer than fluorescents and 20 to 30 times longer than incandescent.
3. LED lamps allow less maintenance costs, lower heating and utility costs and reduces the need for higher rated cable, transformers and electrical components.
4. LED lamps are very resilient, shock and vibration proof and virtually waterproof.
5. LEDs are smaller and more compact and provide more light output per square inch than any other light source.
6. LED lamps produce very little heat and no UV rays, making them safer to handle and safer to use. Ideal for sensitive fabrics/paintings.
7. LEDs are not sensitive to extreme temperatures (unlike fluorescent).
8. Solid state LEDs can be controlled with a processor to achieve unique lighting effects.
9. LEDs are available in cool white, warm white and multiple colors.
10. LEDs draw (on average) about 1/10th the power of today’s conventional lighting, providing new alternative solutions to conventional energy saving lamps. LEDs are the most environmentally friendly lamp technology.
11. Along with Fluorescent bulbs, LED technology is the future of lighting. It can reduce many types of pollution and meet the need for the continued world wide energy demand
Compare LED to Standard Fluorescent and Incandescent and Light Bulbs*
Category LED Fluorescent Incandescent/Halogen
Avg. Utility Cost per Month (20w) .02 cents .35 cents .86 cents
Lumens per Watt (avg.) 50 to 60 32 to 40 14 to 18
Wattage Equivalent (20w) 3 watt 9 watt 20 watt
Average Longetivity 75,000 hrs 15,000 hrs 2500 hrs
Maintenance Zero Ballast issues Replacement
Average Cost Compared to Incandescent 3x 2x variable
Operation Instant On / No Flickering Delay and Flickering Instant On / No Flickering
Added Cost Minimal Service Ballast/ Service High Service
Safety No Gas or Glass Gas and Glass Glass and Heat
Damage due to Shock and Vibration Zero Problem Problematic Problematic
Size per Unit Smallest Medium Largest
Heat Issue Least Ballast Gets Hot Lamp Gets Hot
UV Stable (ultra violet) Stabilized Not UV Stable Stabilized
Light Control Most Control Variable Control Variable Control
Weather/Temperature Changes Not Sensitive Sensitive Some Sensitivity
Ecology/Environment Minimal Issues Some Issues Damaging
Note: These comparisons are based on national averages.
Summary on Savings: Energy bills, Heating Bills, Fixture Longevity, Maintenance and Replacement Labor. These savings may far outweigh the higher cost of solid state (LED) lighting products.
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are becoming far more common for indoor lighting solutions due to their human and environmental safety, cost, and longevity. An LED is a solid-state semiconductor diode that emits light when an electrical current is applied in the forward direction of the device, as in the simple LED circuit. The effect is a form of electro-luminescence where incoherent and narrow-spectrum light is emitted.
LEDs are widely used as indicator lights on electronic devices and increasingly in higher power applications such as flashlights and area lighting. An LED is usually a small area light source, often with optics added to the chip to shape its radiation pattern and assist in reflection. The color of the emitted light depends on the composition and condition of the semi-conducting material used, and can be infrared, visible, or ultraviolet.
Why Choose LED Lighting?
1. The LED advantage: LED (light emitting diodes) are solid state technology and offers the most efficient (energy savings) form of lighting available. In comparison to conventional incandescent light bulbs, LEDs can be equated at approximately 7 to 8 time equivalence. For example, a 3 watt LED can produce as much illumination as a 20 watt incandescent light bulb.
2. On average, LEDs last 3 to 5 times longer than fluorescents and 20 to 30 times longer than incandescent.
3. LED lamps allow less maintenance costs, lower heating and utility costs and reduces the need for higher rated cable, transformers and electrical components.
4. LED lamps are very resilient, shock and vibration proof and virtually waterproof.
5. LEDs are smaller and more compact and provide more light output per square inch than any other light source.
6. LED lamps produce very little heat and no UV rays, making them safer to handle and safer to use. Ideal for sensitive fabrics/paintings.
7. LEDs are not sensitive to extreme temperatures (unlike fluorescent).
8. Solid state LEDs can be controlled with a processor to achieve unique lighting effects.
9. LEDs are available in cool white, warm white and multiple colors.
10. LEDs draw (on average) about 1/10th the power of today’s conventional lighting, providing new alternative solutions to conventional energy saving lamps. LEDs are the most environmentally friendly lamp technology.
11. Along with Fluorescent bulbs, LED technology is the future of lighting. It can reduce many types of pollution and meet the need for the continued world wide energy demand
Compare LED to Standard Fluorescent and Incandescent and Light Bulbs*
Category LED Fluorescent Incandescent/Halogen
Avg. Utility Cost per Month (20w) .02 cents .35 cents .86 cents
Lumens per Watt (avg.) 50 to 60 32 to 40 14 to 18
Wattage Equivalent (20w) 3 watt 9 watt 20 watt
Average Longetivity 75,000 hrs 15,000 hrs 2500 hrs
Maintenance Zero Ballast issues Replacement
Average Cost Compared to Incandescent 3x 2x variable
Operation Instant On / No Flickering Delay and Flickering Instant On / No Flickering
Added Cost Minimal Service Ballast/ Service High Service
Safety No Gas or Glass Gas and Glass Glass and Heat
Damage due to Shock and Vibration Zero Problem Problematic Problematic
Size per Unit Smallest Medium Largest
Heat Issue Least Ballast Gets Hot Lamp Gets Hot
UV Stable (ultra violet) Stabilized Not UV Stable Stabilized
Light Control Most Control Variable Control Variable Control
Weather/Temperature Changes Not Sensitive Sensitive Some Sensitivity
Ecology/Environment Minimal Issues Some Issues Damaging
Note: These comparisons are based on national averages.
Summary on Savings: Energy bills, Heating Bills, Fixture Longevity, Maintenance and Replacement Labor. These savings may far outweigh the higher cost of solid state (LED) lighting products.
Stop Wasting Money on Your Lighting
Sean Kennedy asked:
Copyright (c) 2008 Sean Kennedy
As energy prices soar, companies across the UK are finding their annual energy bills are increasing by as much as 50% on previous years. With no end in sight to the rise in energy costs and faced with the challenge of slashing carbon dioxide emissions, we explain the 5 cardinal energy sins that which companies should avoid with their lighting.
1. Not using Voltage Reduction Devices
The UK’s electrical supply has been harmonised with European Standards to deliver 230V however there is an accepted tolerance of +10% to -6% which means that the power delivered could be as much as 253V.
Strangely most electrical products manufactured for the European market are optimised to run at 220V and lighting technologies such as High Intensity Discharge lighting (HID), such as Sodium, Mercury Vapour, HQI (Metal Halide) and Fluorescent lamps can operate at as little as 207V.
Not only is this a waste, the problem is compounded by the fact that running equipment at a higher than optimum voltages can increase energy usage and decrease the life expectancy of a lamp.
By simply installing a Voltage Reduction Device, businesses and organisations could save up to 25% instantly and increase the life cycle of lamps by as much as 300%.
2. Not using lighting controls
Lighting controls have been a proven technique to reduce energy consumption for many years however many businesses and organisations have yet to invest in this technology.
Lighting controls go much further than simple dimming to include motion sensors, daylight sensors, light level sensors as well as timing systems.
These control systems can be programmed to an organisation’s individual requirements controlling all aspects of the lighting from internal offices, stairwells, toilets, storage areas and external lighting.
Taking external lighting of a building, an effective lighting control system can reduce light levels and the associated energy usage by as much as 90% during inactive periods and immediately switched up to 100% when motion is detected.
3. Using Diochroic lamps in downlights
The simple truth is that if you have dichroic lamps in your premises you are wasting substantial amounts of energy.
There are literally millions of these fittings installed across the UK and provide one of the biggest opportunities to reduce energy consumption.
LED technology has advanced to such a degree that LED-powered downlights can now achieve superb light levels using a fraction of the energy.
LED downlights can achieve superb light levels using as little as 8W – a massive reduction of over 80% on a standard 50W dichroic lamp.
4. Using High Wattage SON or Metal Halide External Lighting
The traditional approach to floodlighting a building or providing security lighting has been to use high powered SON or Metal Halide fittings which can range from 70-250Watts.
These energy-sapping luminaires are costing your organisation thousands of pounds every single year in running and maintenance.
The introduction of advanced external LED lighting have seen new products enter the market which can achieve excellent light levels whilst consuming as little as 40Watts – again delivering superb energy savings.
As well as an extended life cycle of over 15 years, LED fittings also offer several additional benefits over SON lighting with brilliant white light, an instant restrike and the option for the entire lighting installation to be controlled via a PIR sensor for even further energy savings.
5. Believing that Replacing Lamps is Cheaper than Re-evaluating your Lighting System
The biggest sin of all is to stick to what you know and not explore the true costs of your existing lighting. Whilst it is guaranteed to be cheaper to buy a replacement lamp than installing new equipment such as lighting controls, LED lighting or an energy reducing device, the long term cost to your organisation will be considerably more.
With a range of incentives available from organisations such as the Carbon Trust, Business Enterprise Partnership and Salix Financing as well as tax benefits under the Enhanced Capital Allowance scheme, there has never been a better time to re-evaluate your existing lighting.
The return on investment could be as little as 12 months depending on which solution is right for your organisation.
Copyright (c) 2008 Sean Kennedy
As energy prices soar, companies across the UK are finding their annual energy bills are increasing by as much as 50% on previous years. With no end in sight to the rise in energy costs and faced with the challenge of slashing carbon dioxide emissions, we explain the 5 cardinal energy sins that which companies should avoid with their lighting.
1. Not using Voltage Reduction Devices
The UK’s electrical supply has been harmonised with European Standards to deliver 230V however there is an accepted tolerance of +10% to -6% which means that the power delivered could be as much as 253V.
Strangely most electrical products manufactured for the European market are optimised to run at 220V and lighting technologies such as High Intensity Discharge lighting (HID), such as Sodium, Mercury Vapour, HQI (Metal Halide) and Fluorescent lamps can operate at as little as 207V.
Not only is this a waste, the problem is compounded by the fact that running equipment at a higher than optimum voltages can increase energy usage and decrease the life expectancy of a lamp.
By simply installing a Voltage Reduction Device, businesses and organisations could save up to 25% instantly and increase the life cycle of lamps by as much as 300%.
2. Not using lighting controls
Lighting controls have been a proven technique to reduce energy consumption for many years however many businesses and organisations have yet to invest in this technology.
Lighting controls go much further than simple dimming to include motion sensors, daylight sensors, light level sensors as well as timing systems.
These control systems can be programmed to an organisation’s individual requirements controlling all aspects of the lighting from internal offices, stairwells, toilets, storage areas and external lighting.
Taking external lighting of a building, an effective lighting control system can reduce light levels and the associated energy usage by as much as 90% during inactive periods and immediately switched up to 100% when motion is detected.
3. Using Diochroic lamps in downlights
The simple truth is that if you have dichroic lamps in your premises you are wasting substantial amounts of energy.
There are literally millions of these fittings installed across the UK and provide one of the biggest opportunities to reduce energy consumption.
LED technology has advanced to such a degree that LED-powered downlights can now achieve superb light levels using a fraction of the energy.
LED downlights can achieve superb light levels using as little as 8W – a massive reduction of over 80% on a standard 50W dichroic lamp.
4. Using High Wattage SON or Metal Halide External Lighting
The traditional approach to floodlighting a building or providing security lighting has been to use high powered SON or Metal Halide fittings which can range from 70-250Watts.
These energy-sapping luminaires are costing your organisation thousands of pounds every single year in running and maintenance.
The introduction of advanced external LED lighting have seen new products enter the market which can achieve excellent light levels whilst consuming as little as 40Watts – again delivering superb energy savings.
As well as an extended life cycle of over 15 years, LED fittings also offer several additional benefits over SON lighting with brilliant white light, an instant restrike and the option for the entire lighting installation to be controlled via a PIR sensor for even further energy savings.
5. Believing that Replacing Lamps is Cheaper than Re-evaluating your Lighting System
The biggest sin of all is to stick to what you know and not explore the true costs of your existing lighting. Whilst it is guaranteed to be cheaper to buy a replacement lamp than installing new equipment such as lighting controls, LED lighting or an energy reducing device, the long term cost to your organisation will be considerably more.
With a range of incentives available from organisations such as the Carbon Trust, Business Enterprise Partnership and Salix Financing as well as tax benefits under the Enhanced Capital Allowance scheme, there has never been a better time to re-evaluate your existing lighting.
The return on investment could be as little as 12 months depending on which solution is right for your organisation.