Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Google+ 0 shares

As focus increases on eco-friendly alternatives to gas-guzzling cars and fossil fuelled heating and energy systems, many of us are looking to save electricity and the environment with intelligent alternatives to traditional solutions. Halogen has long been the go-to bulb of choice for homeowners – cheaply and readily available, they are compatible with most light fittings and emanate a warm white glow. But halogen lights do also have some significant drawbacks – especially as more of us begin to study the green credentials of the lighting we use more closely. Here we explain what LED lighting is all about and how it is rapidly taking over from halogen – providing insights and advice to help you to make the switch easily.

LED bulbs are cost-effective and eco-friendly

Halogen spotlights are predominantly used as spotlight fixtures in millions of homes and businesses nationwide. They provide bright light and they’re readily available at a relatively low price. But they do usually need to be replaced frequently as they blow or fail after only a short period of continuous usage – backing up the suggestion by eco-pioneers that they aren’t sustainable or cost-effective. LEDs represent a fresh alternative with attractive benefits – namely longevity and lower energy usage. Because of this LED bulbs save homeowners an average of 90% compared with their traditional halogen counterparts. So whilst LED wall light bulbs are a little pricier than halogen (with costs coming down all the time) they represent much better value for money – and eliminate the constant hassle of changing high-up spotlights.

LED bulbs generate less heat than halogen alternatives

Have you ever noticed that halogen bulbs give off a lot of heat? Whether they’re illuminating products or trophies in a cabinet, fitted in a desk lamp or provide lighting from above in a kitchen food prep area, they tend to emanate warmth that can sometimes be uncomfortable. And if you happen to touch one just after it’s been switched off the glass and metal casing can be extremely hot – enough to burn. The reason for this comes down to the fact that halogen bulbs aren’t energy efficient – 95% of the energy they receive is transformed into heat, with just 5% produced as light. LEDs almost completely reverse these figures – ensuring that just 5% of energy wasted as heat. The average halogen bulb uses 50-100 watts of energy, compared to LED’s 2-5 watts. This huge difference in energy output is the principle reason behind the massive amount of heat generated by halogen bulbs. The heat is wasted energy – a by-product of the light generated. LEDs eliminate this – further adding to their eco credentials.

LED bulbs are kinder to the environment

A steep rise in the popularity of LEDs is partially down to vocal and high-profile green advocates who increasingly opt for easy switches and eco-friendly alternatives at home and for commercial properties and builds. Given their significantly lower energy usage, it’s simple to work out why LEDs are kinder to the environment than halogen bulbs. But dig a little deeper and the benefits expand considerably. One such advantage is the reduction in waste generated from the constant replacement of halogen bulbs – as plastic, glass and metal components must all be recycled or disposed of safely after each replacement. As LEDs last longer they don’t generate nearly as much waste – saving on landfill sites. Some can also be recycled after use, further reducing their impact on the environment.

Keen to save money and the environment with LED alternatives? Discover our beautiful and stylish LED home lighting collections here.