Environmentalism is more than a fad. Today, there is an urgent need for products and practices that promote sustainability. Eco-friendly products are slowly making their way into homes. Switching to outdoor LED lighting systems is one of the small things homeowners can do to make their homes “green”.
What is LED?
Light-emitting diodes, more popularly known as LEDs, are a form of solid-state lighting that uses small semiconductor diodes to create light. Instead of a glass bulb filled with filaments or gases, LEDs are made of small capsules consisting of tiny chips placed on a heat-conducting material. They come in a wide range of colors that are great for adding interest in an outdoor space.
Efficiency
Light-emitting diodes release beams in a specific direction. Unlike the light from incandescent and fluorescent bulbs, the ray produced by LEDs can be three to eight millimeters long. Because of the strong beam, LEDs can be used singly or as part of an array, depending on the lighting need. Energy is also not wasted by emitting light in all directions unnecessarily. Furthermore, the LED’s light output remains constant over time, and the quality of light is unaffected by frequent switching. LEDs are, therefore, ideal in areas requiring repeated on-off operation of lights.
Long Life Span
The life of an average incandescent bulb ranges from 750 to 2,000 hours, while fluorescent bulbs last somewhere between 8,000 to 30,000 hours. Compare those figures with the life span of a high-power white LED, which is projected to be around 35,000 to 50,000 hours. Not only do LEDs help homeowners save on electricity bills, these also reduce replacement costs.
Low Temperatures
Most of the energy that conventional light bulbs use is wasted and given off as heat. Incandescent bulbs give off 90% of energy as heat. A compact fluorescent bulb, on the other hand, releases 80% as heat. In contrast, LEDs remain cool despite the ultra-bright light these provide.
Safety and Security
Another significant advantage of switching to LED outdoor lighting is the enhancement of safety and security in one's premises. With LED lighting, areas that were once cast in shadow can now be illuminated brightly. This not only makes pathways, decks, and driveways safer to navigate but also deters potential intruders by eliminating dark corners where they could hide.
- Improved Visibility: LED lights provide a clean, bright light that improves visibility in outdoor spaces. This is particularly beneficial during evening hours when family members or guests are navigating pathways, stairs, or uneven terrains. The clearer light emitted by LEDs can reduce the risk of trips, falls, and other accidents.
- Deterrence of Intruders: A well-lit property is less enticing to potential trespassers or intruders. By illuminating entry points such as doors, windows, and gates, homeowners can create a less inviting environment for any unwanted visitors. Brightly lit exteriors can also be a deterrent for wildlife, which can be particularly useful in areas prone to nocturnal animals.
- Integration with Security Systems: Modern LED outdoor lighting systems can often be integrated with home security systems. This allows for features such as motion detection, where lights can be programmed to turn on when movement is detected, or smart integration, where homeowners can control lighting remotely via smartphone apps.
- Aesthetically Pleasing Security: While the primary objective might be safety and security, it doesn't mean aesthetics need to be compromised. LED lighting options come in various designs and fixtures that can complement a home's exterior decor while fulfilling their security purpose.
In essence, integrating LED outdoor lighting is not just an environmentally sound choice but also an intelligent move towards a safer and more secure home environment. This dual benefit underscores the versatility and forward-thinking nature of LED lighting solutions. Making the switch is a bright idea in more ways than one!
Homeowners looking for efficient, durable, and versatile outdoor lighting solutions can have well-designed LED outdoor deck lighting installed by companies such as Outdoor Lighting Perspectives. Because LED lights are not made of filaments or glass enclosures, they are impervious to vibrations caused by walking or running in the deck, and are therefore more resistant to breakage. Homeowners definitely have a lot to gain by making the switch to LED.