Why Are LED Lights Good for the Environment? A Guide to Energy-Efficient Lighting

In the past decade or so, more and more businesses have been making environmental conservation a priority. Of course, it’s the right thing to do for the planet. But there are other reasons as well. Consumers care about these issues and want to give their dollars to organizations that practice sustainable principles. And, believe it or not, being environmentally friendly can also save you some cash. 

Let’s consider LED lights as just one example. The type of lighting your company picks impacts its bottom line results. But, there’s more. Here is what you need to know about LED lights and why these energy-efficient lights are good for the environment.

What Are LED Lights?

LED is short for light emitting diode. An LED light is a semiconductor device that emits visible light when an electrical current passes through it. LEDs are made from two types of semiconducting material, an n-type and a p-type. Both materials are dipped into a substance that alters their electrical properties. 

When the electrical properties of the two materials are changed, it allows for the creation of a junction with useful applications. When an external voltage is applied correctly, you get light! While this might sound technical, it’s a simple enough concept with many applications for commercial lighting. And it’s environmentally friendly!

Why Are LED Lights Good for the Environment?

There are a variety of ways to protect the environment, but one thing your business can do is choose the right type of lighting. And when it comes to environmentally friendly lighting, LED lights are the best option. Here are some of the reasons why this is the case. 

1. LED Lights Are Energy Efficient.

LED lights are highly energy efficient compared to other types of lighting like incandescent lights or CFLs. You can save as much as 80% or 90% on your energy bills. Low energy consumption reduces the demand on electric power plans, which lowers your carbon footprint. 

2. LED Lights Emit Low Heat. 

Some other types of lighting produce heat as well as light, which makes them less energy-efficient. If you have to cool down your room because your lights are making it too hot, your power bill will be outrageous. Fortunately, LED lights have high electricity-to-light conversion efficiency, meaning there is hardly any heat loss. 

3. LED Lights Reduce Light Pollution.

Some types of lighting technology will send light in every direction, which may not be necessary. That is referred to as “light pollution.” LED lights are highly focused, meaning they are more directional in nature and can reduce this distraction. 

4. LED Lights Are Safer. 

LED lights are a safer option for several reasons. They are created from advanced technology, which makes them more durable than other options. LED lights also don’t contain toxic elements that can contaminate your workplace if broken or the environment once disposed of in a landfill. 

5. LED Lights Have a Long Life.

LED lights have an estimated life of up to 50,000 hours, which is substantially longer than any of the alternatives. This longer lifespan eliminates the need for light bulb replacement every few months and keeps these items out of landfills. 

6. LED Lights Don’t Emit Noise. 

Some traditional light bulbs can create a humming noise or vibration, that’s considered noise pollution. LED lights are completely silent, eliminating this bothersome issue. 

7. LED Lights Can Stimulate Plant Growth.

If your business grows plants or has them around for aesthetic purposes, you will probably want to use LED lighting. Research suggests that traditional lighting options can affect plant growth due to undesirable temperature changes. But LED lighting doesn’t impact this part of your plant’s environment. 

8. LED Lights Don’t Attract Bugs. 

Whether you install your lighting indoors or outdoors, some types of lightbulbs can attract insects and other bugs. It’s annoying in a work environment and can even lead to some serious health issues. LED lights don’t emit the wavelengths and heat that attract these bugs. 

How LEDs Are Different from Incandescent Bulbs

When we talk about “regular light bulbs,” we mean incandescent bulbs. These traditional light bulbs have been around since Thomas Edison patented the invention in the 1870s. 

Incandescent bulbs have an internal filament that glows when activated, producing both light and heat. In contrast, LEDs have electrons that flow to create photons, which is visible light. And photons produce almost no heat. 

When compared to incandescent bulbs, LEDs use over 75% less energy. The difference is even more significant at lower power levels. For example, bright LED flood lamps use roughly 12 watts of power yet create a light output that compares to a 50-watt incandescent bulb. 

How LEDs Are Different from CFL Bulbs

When you own a business, you are probably familiar with fluorescent lighting. A CFL is a tube that contains argon and a small amount of mercury vapor. An electrical current going through the tube will stimulate the fluorescent coating and emit light. 

These types of lights are common in commercial and industrial settings. But, they are no longer the most energy efficient. While CFL bulbs will beat out incandescent bulbs in a contest, they won’t win against LEDs. Also, CFLs have a much shorter lifespan than LEDs. 

Get More Information About Energy-Efficient Lighting

If you’re looking for energy-efficient lighting for your business, Staco Electric Company has extensive experience in this area. We conduct new construction commercial and industrial design and support existing building improvements. We specialize in high-quality lighting technology that saves our clients money on their energy bills. 

Most people understand that LED lighting has a slightly higher upfront cost. But the long life of these products and the energy efficiency they provide make this a worthwhile choice. 

Whether you want to improve the lighting in your workspace, get better performance, or have a safer approach, Staco Electric can help. Contact us today for more information about our commercial and industrial electrician and lighting services.