Daylighting Controls & Daylight Savings: Optimizing Natural Light Through the Changing Seasons
Studies have shown that natural lighting has proven to improve workplaces by helping employees be more comfortable and efficient. As…
Are you still clinging to outdated incandescent bulbs for your commercial space? It’s time to illuminate your surroundings with a modern upgrade – LED lighting fixtures. President Joe Biden’s Department of Energy has waved goodbye to the era of incandescent bulbs, and its high time you did too. Here’s why.
Benefits of LEDs:
First and foremost, LED bulbs outshine incandescent and fluorescents in every aspect. They boast an impressive lifespan, emitting the same amount of light while consuming significantly less energy. This means lower electricity bills and reduced environmental footprint, making them a win-win choice for your business.
In fact, the switch to LEDs is projected to save US consumers a staggering $3 billion on utility bills, all while curbing carbon emissions by a whopping 222 million metric tons over the next three decades. But the advantages don’t stop there.
LED Lighting Fixtures:
LEDs aren’t just about efficiency; they offer a myriad of features to enhance your commercial space. From color-changing bulbs to integration with smart systems, LEDs provide versatility and customization options tailored to your needs.
However, diving into the world of LED lighting requires some savvy tips to ensure you make the right choices.
LED Tips:
- Measuring Brightness: Unlike incandescent, LED brightness is measured in lumens, not watts. Disregard wattage when shopping for LEDs and focus on lumens for accurate brightness assessment. This ensures you get the desired illumination without unnecessary energy consumption.
- Color Metrics: LED bulbs come in various color temperatures, from warm white to daylight. Color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K), describes the warmth or coolness of light emitted by a source, with lower Kelvin temperatures producing warmer light and higher Kelvin temperatures emitting cooler light. Select the color that suits your commercial setting best, whether it’s for a cozy ambiance or a vibrant workspace.
- Return on Investment: While LED bulbs may come with a slightly higher upfront cost, their long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. With lower energy consumption and extended lifespan, LEDs save you money in the long run while offering superior performance.
- Integrating Lighting Control Systems: If you plan to use dimmer switches, opt for dimmable LEDs to avoid compatibility issues. Experiment with a single bulb before committing to a larger purchase and consider upgrading to smart bulbs for seamless dimming control.
- Prolonging LED Lifespan: Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs, LEDs boast an impressively long lifespan, often lasting tens of thousands of hours, making them a durable and cost-effective lighting solution for various applications. Not all fixtures are suitable for LED bulbs, especially enclosed ones. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent heat buildup and prolong the lifespan of your LEDs.
The switch to LED lighting fixtures for your commercial space is not just a matter of compliance but a strategic investment in efficiency, sustainability, and performance. Embrace the illumination revolution and brighten up your business with LEDs today.
Click here to read the full article, originally published August 3, 2023, by CNet.
