5 Little Known Facts About LED Lighting

Whether you’re in charge of planning for a municipality; or you’re redoing the outdoor lighting scheme for a school or park, you’ve heard good things about the LED approach. But odds are, you’re missing some facts! Here are five surprising truths about light emitting diodes.

1. LEDs have been around for over half a century.

General Electric developed the first LEDs in the 1960s. In the 70s, manufacturers used LEDs in calculators, computers and commercial technology. Although it seems like LEDs just “burst onto the scene” in the past few years, it took more than five decades of tinkering for the technology to become low cost and commercially viable.

2. Many LED makers oversell their products.

While it’s true that LEDs can outperform incandescent bulbs and other lighting schemes, not all LEDs are created equal. To achieve the maximum LED lifespan (top bulbs can reach tens of thousands of hours), you must care for your equipment, install lights correctly, use the right components, etcetera. Find an LED company that has experience with your type of application.

3. LED prices have plunged – and will no doubt continue to do so.

Many industry watchers believe that we may be at or nearing a “tipping point” in terms of the commercial viability of LED products. As more and more businesses, municipalities and even individuals “buy-in” to the LED paradigm, prices will continue to drop.

4. The real LED savings are on the backend.

While it’s true that LED bulbs can substantially outlast competitors, you may need to invest on the front end. It may be easy and cheap to retrofit your lighting scheme with LEDs scheme. But not necessarily! The real benefit often comes years later, because the incremental savings you enjoy due to increased efficiency, longer bulb life, etcetera, stack up over time.

5. LEDs can enhance safety on your property.

Multiple surveys suggest that people consider LED lighting prettier and safer. This makes sense. Fewer burned out bulbs, for instance, create a more consistent lighting scheme. When your premises feel safe, more people will visit, do business with you and enjoy your space.

For help designing a LED lighting project – or for general insights about your outdoor lighting project – connect with the team at Great Basin Lighting by calling 925.240.1566 (CA) or 775.333.0900 (NV) today for a free estimate.