LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are a type of electronic light source. These appear in many formats, single modules to larger integrated units containing many LEDs formed into one display.
You can see LEDs being used in the standby lights on your monitor or dot-matrix on calculator screens (normally a single LED module): LEDs are different from conventional light sources such as incandescent (Luminescent) and halogen lamps. They last much longer, consume far less energy and emit very little heat. They are highly durable and do not feature fragile elements such as glass tubes or filaments in the older light-bulbs. They are also safer because they do not contain any mercury or lead, which is also appealing for the environment. LED bulbs are now available in the most common light fittings.
How much power do LEDs use?
LED Bulbs use up to 90% less energy than standard light bulbs being used of
equivalent brightness. LEDs are far more efficient at converting electricity, measured in
watts, into light, measured in lumens. As such, a typical 5 watt LED bulb uses approx
2Volts of electricity and can easily achieve a light output comparable to a 50 watt, 12V
halogen bulb.
How long do LEDs last?
A typical LED bulb should last up to 50,000 hours (approx 17 years if used around 8
hours per day). This is in comparison to around 8 years for alternative older
technologies.
How bright are LEDs?
The brightness of a bulb is measured in lumens (Lm), the higher the number of lumens,
the brighter the bulb. Despite using very low wattages, LEDs are able to emit the same
brightness as traditional light sources. To make things easier, most retailers quote an
equivalent incandescent wattage so consumers can replace their lights and keep the
same brightness.
How can LEDs help me save money?
Whether it’s in a standard household or a commercial environment, lighting represents
as much as 20% of the overall energy consumption. By switching to LED, a
considerable amount of money can be saved due to the lower wattages of the products.
LEDs also last far longer so you won’t need to replace them often and their reliability
means you won’t need to worry about maintenance. Once you’ve switched to LED, you
will start saving money in less than a year.
Visual Display Unit adjustments
In conjunction to the above, it is advisable to adjust your screen’s brightness & contrast
to the lowest most comfortable level; this not only saves a bit of power, but also emits
less glittering light into your eyes.
Salim
Community Champion
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