It was once said that the only sure things in life were death and taxes. We can now add rising energy costs to that short list. Many of us are trying to counter continually rising energy costs by finding ways to save money and practice energy efficiency in their homes.
Recent data released by the U.S. Department of Energy shows that the average American household spends $1,900 annually on utility bills. A significant portion of that amount is dedicated to lighting. Clearly, lighting your home is no longer a minor expense.
Fortunately, you can have a positive effect on your energy bill and your environment with one simple step: Change your old incandescent light bulbs and CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps easily recognized by their spiral design) LED light bulbs. LED light bulbs not only protect the environment by using less energy, they will shave significant dollars from your energy bill.
Here are five reasons to change from traditional light bulbs to LED lighting:
1. LED lamps save energy
If you are interested in living a more “green” lifestyle, LED lighting is the way to go. LED light bulbs consume fewer watts than traditional bulbs to produce the same amount of light. In accordance with the U.S. Department of Energy, LED light bulbs use 75 to 85 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs. The positive impact on the environment is obvious.
2. LED lamps offer extended life
Depending on the type, LED light bulbs have average life spans between 15,000 and 40,000 hours. This is an average of 25 times longer than the lifespan of incandescent bulbs. In most cases, you will not have to replace a dimming or burned out bulb for decades at a time.
3. LED lamps save money
Energy savings and cost savings go hand-in-hand when it comes to lighting. You will spend less money if you consume less energy. The savings are not huge, but they add up over time. Replacing 15 light bulbs in your home with more energy efficient models will reduce your energy bill by approximately $50 each year. That adds up to up to $1,800 over the lifetime of an LED bulb.
4. LED lamps provide instant illumination
No more waiting for CFLs to warm up before reaching full brightness. LED lamps are at full brightness the moment you turn them on.
5. LED lamps are versatile
LED light bulb come in a variety of shapes sizes and colors to fit any fixture or complement any room in your home. The lamps provide a natural and warm light that creates the ambience you desire. Many LED lamps can be controlled by a dimmer switch to fill your rooms with any amount of light you desire.
As an energy and cost-effective alternative to traditional lighting, LED lamps are a good way to start greening your home and provide it with quality, affordable, long-term lighting.