LED & CFL Light Advantages

Ten years ago, compact fluorescent lights became the standard of energy efficiency for homeowners. Yet, fifteen years ago, the available CFLs and standard fluorescents produced a range of lighting that was woefully inadequate. Today, compact fluorescent bulbs come in a broad range of lighting types and designs, from candelabra lights to all-weather bulbs, from dimmable to flood light. Their approximation to natural light has become remarkable, while the annoying tendency to flutter and pulse virtually has been eliminated.
Standard fluorescent tube lights have been replaced with energy efficient, bright T8 fluorescents, saving energy, decreasing pollution risk and providing enhanced lighting in public places such as malls and office complexes. All of the fluorescent bulbs offer lifespans exceeding 5,000 hours.
Across North America, the use of CFL lighting is touted by energy providers and eco-enthusiasts as being an environmentally responsible choice. However, CFLs are rapidly being outdone by even more energy efficient and attractive options, The appeal of the CFL, it seems, is being dimmed.
Until three or four years ago, LED lights were relegated to ornamental uses or flashlights and vehicle taillights. They simply did not produce sufficient lighting to be of any value in homes, Now, though, 1.1 watt LED bulbs light lamps and fixtures that used to carry 13 watt CFLs or 40-60 watt incandescents. These LED bulbs are available in candelabra base, standard base, GU10 base and so on, making them completely interchangeable with all existing bulb types (except for fluorescent tubes). However, they also cost up to 15 times the cost of an incandescent bulb. On the other hand, they are rated for 10, 20, and even 40,000 hours of use. At 1/25 of the energy consumption and 40 times the lifespan of incandescent bulbs, the lifetime savings of LEDs is more than 6000% over the old lighting options.
But LEDs, before they have even achieved recognition as a super energy-efficient option for homeowners, are being dwarfed by more eco-friendly options.
Sylvania recently unveiled its “inductively coupled electrode-less electronic lighting systems.” Relying on neither filament nor electrode for light production, this new technology eliminates the heat produced by other bulbs, lasts 100,000 hours or more, provides exceptionally high lumen (lighting) output and provides a colour spectrum much closer to natural sunlight.
Still, LEDs offer the greatest potential for homeowners, combining low cost and sufficient lighting power while consuming virtually no energy. According to Digitime Research, the demand for LEDs will increase from 596 million in 2011 to 2.5 billion in 2013.
Gone are the days of replacing bulbs monthly, paying 15% of your electricity bill for lighting, and roaming through your home frantically turning off unused lights because of the high costs. A home now can be lit efficiently, environmentally responsibly and economically.