The word on the street is that Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are highly energy efficient and save users big time money. But do they? The answer is both yes and no. Like many questions that involve money, it depends on the situation. Fluorescent Man Lighting in Calgary use all types of different lighting systems, and we always assess your needs first before choosing a solution. When it comes to your home, LEDs can sometimes work great; however, if you run a large office, newer style fluorescent lighting is still the best solution.
When it comes to your home, installing LEDs can save you up to 80% on your energy bill. For now, the cost savings are exclusive to residential dwellings and outdoor markets, so when it comes to office buildings it’s an entirely different story. LEDs just don’t offer the cost savings for large office towers. With that said, recent developments in energy efficient fluorescent lights are working out as a solution.
Currently the main criticism surrounding fluorescent lights is that they contain mercury, compared to LEDs, which don’t. There have been changes in regulations recently, which require fluorescent lights to have lower levels of mercury contained in them and there has been an emphasis on recycling old fluorescent bulbs.
LEDs are finding a larger market in retail spaces, where their lighting is giving a greater shopping experience. One of the main selling features of LEDs and why they are supposedly greater in cost savings is their expected lifespan of 25 years. The problem with that is, LEDs haven’t been around for 25 years, so we have to wait a little longer until we can guarantee that lifespan.
As newer generations of LED lighting systems roll out, they might offer greater cost savings for large office facilities in the future; however, in the meantime, energy efficient fluorescent lighting continues to provide ample illumination along with energy savings.
For more information on any of our lighting services in Calgary, contact Fluorescent Man Lighting on 403-863-8529.
