I've heard that LEDs are more efficient for holiday lighting, but they cost more than traditional lights. Are they worth it?
Yes. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are small light sources illuminated by the movement of electrons through a semiconductor material - and they are worth the extra money.
According to ENERGY STAR®, LEDs are very energy efficient when producing individual colors, such as those used in many holiday lights. LEDs use up to 90 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs to produce the same amount of light.
The amount of electricity consumed by just one 7-watt incandescent bulb could power 140 LEDs - enough to light two 24-foot strings of lights.
Still not convinced? ENERGY STAR qualified LEDs are worth the extra money because they:
- last up to 10 times longer than traditional incandescent strands,
- are cool to the touch, reducing the risk of fire,
- don't have filaments or glass so they are much more durable and shock-resistant than other light strings,
- come with a three-year warranty, and
- will absorb their initial cost after about one to two years of use.
Learn more about LEDs by visiting energystar.gov
Source:
Lines - Delmarva.Com
December 2008
