From Fluorescent Bulbs to LEDs: A Good Idea?

Is it time to switch out of fluorescent tubes and bulbs?

In the course of our work as residential electricians in San Antonio, homeowners often ask us if there are any actual advantages switching from fluorescent bulbs or tubes to LED lights, considering the price of LEDs. People want to change, but beyond the obvious aesthetic reasons, they are not certain this is the right move for their home.

Let’s take a look at some of the major benefits from switching. 

Longer lifespan

The average lifespan of a fluorescent bulb is about 7,000-15,000 hours. LEDs can last 25,000 to 50,000 hours. On average, LEDs can last 2-3 times longer than fluorescents. Considering that 25% of U.S. homes use 40+ light bulbs at any given time, replacing light fixtures is not an insignificant yearly expense. the frequency of replacement is also an inconvenience.

Energy efficiency

LEDs typically consume 25%-30% less energy than fluorescent lights. Traditional fluorescent lamps typically have an efficiency of 60-70 lumens per watt, while LEDs can achieve efficiencies of 80-100 lumens per watt. On top of that, a fluorescent bulb (or tube) will emit less and less light as it ages. On the contrary, a LED light will remain as efficient throughout its lifespan as it was on Day 1.

Power consumption

LEDs typically consume less power (watts) than fluorescent lights for the same light output (lumens). For instance, a 10W LED light can produce the same amount of light as a 13-15W fluorescent bulb. Both are less power-hungry than incandescent bulbs, for sure!

Decreased heat

In another article on LED lighting benefits, we mention the huge energy efficiency differential (800%) between an incandescent bulb and a LED light, as shown by the research published by the Center for Nanoscale Science at U-Penn. LEDs convert more electricity into light. 

Of the 5 most common lighting devices, incandescent bulbs are the least energy-efficient, followed by halogen lamps, neon tubes, fluorescent tubes, and LED lights. LED lights also generate the less heat of the 5 devices, followed in ascending order by fluorescent tubes, neon tubes, incandescent bulbs, and halogen lamps. Halogen light produce the highest heat signature of the 5 devices.

Fluorescent tubes are not very hot to the touch but their ballast are. The ballast is subject to several heat-generating factors and require adequate ventilation to avoid creating a fire hazard.  

LEDs do offer a clear advantage when an electrician or a contractor builds a lighting system in small spaces as they need the void space around them for heat dissipation. In homes and offices, the low heat signature of LEDs also decreases the need for air conditioning, generating additional power savings. 

Improved light quality

LED technology provides a more consistent light output, with less flickering and no noticeable warm-up time. LEDs also cover a broader spectrum of color temperatures. As we mentioned earlier, this is a big factor behind the fact homeowners love LED technology.

Beyond the different types of whites that both LED and fluo bulbs offer (from warm white to cool daylight), LEDs come in many different colors. Some LED lights even offering thousands of hues that can be varied with a phone or a small remote control. We all love to “change the mood” of a room, and LEDs give us the capability to do this. Fluorescent bulbs? Not so much.

How can All Star Electric help you?

Whatever your electrical installation requires, we can do it. Converting your home to a smart LED lighting system from incandescent bulbs or fluorescent tubes is something we do routinely. If you have a project in mind, just call us at (210) 391-0274. We offer reasonable rates, and very high quality workmanship as attested by our A+ rating with the BBB (we have maintained our A+ with 0 complaints since 2009).