LED Fixture FAQ
Find answers to your most commonly asked questions
Since LED lighting has changed for the better the way people light up their homes, San Antonio licensed electrician All Star Electric has been asked dozens of questions by homeowners thinking of switching their lighting system from incandescent to LED fixtures. It seemed appropriate for us to make a list of the questions most often asked and publish our answers on our site.
What is the main disadvantages of LED lighting in an office or home?
The main disadvantage of LED lighting in an office is that it can cause glare and discomfort due to its high brightness, especially if not properly diffused or directed. A professional electrician will advise clients as to best practices in this regard when installing an LED lighting system.
In a home setting, the main disadvantage of LED lighting is the upfront cost, higher than traditional lighting options (incandescent bulb or small fluorescent tubes). Additionally, the quality of light can vary greatly between different LED products. A good professional electrician will select the best LED products for the client’s budget.
What are the benefits of LED lights?
Benefits of LED lights include energy efficiency, long lifespan, reduced heat output, and the ability to produce a wide range of colors and light intensities. Professional electricians working on a home remodeling project will offer the homeowners a comparison between a traditional lighting system and LED lights, and estimate the energy cost savings before recommending a solution.
Are LED lights good or bad for eyes?
LED lights are generally safe for eyes, but exposure to high-intensity, blue-rich LED light can cause eye strain and discomfort. It’s important to choose LEDs with a warm color temperature and appropriate brightness for the setting. A good electrician knows enough about LED product options to recommend a product that is adapted to the specific situation, whether a home, an office, a photo studio, a retail store, or a car repair shop.
How long do LED lamps last?
LED lights can last up to 50,000 hours or more, depending on the quality of the light and the conditions of use. This is significantly longer than traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs which makes LED lighting a “greener” option.
Do LEDs use less electricity and how much?
Yes, LEDs use less electricity than traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs. Depending on the specific LED and traditional bulb being compared, LEDs can use up to 80% less energy. Retail packaging of LED bulbs mention the differences in watts/hour between the different types of bulbs. A professional electrician will be able to give clients an estimate of the annual cost savings they can expect when switching from traditional lighting to LED lighting.
Do LED strip lights raise electric bill vs. incandescent bulbs?
While LED strip lights do use electricity, they are more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs and are unlikely to significantly raise your electric bill. In fact, they will lower your electric bill in most cases.
Can LED lights cause headaches?
LED lights can potentially cause headaches if they are flickering at a high frequency, or if the light is too bright or has a high proportion of blue light. All such concerns are resolved by proper calibration and luminance calculations done with the professional electrician before installation.
Do LED lamps attract bugs?
LED lights do not typically attract bugs as much as incandescent lights do. This is because LEDs emit less heat and can be designed to emit light in specific wavelengths that are less attractive to bugs. This said, there are LED-based lights that are specifically designed to attract flies and other flying insects in a home.
Is it OK to leave my LED fixtures on all night?
It’s generally safe to leave LED lights on all night, as they don’t generate much heat. However, it’s best to turn off unnecessary lights to save energy and create a better sleep environment. Ask your professional electrician if they can install a timer solution to turn off lights automatically.
Is it safe to leave LED lights on all day?
Yes, it is safe to leave LED lights on all day. They don’t generate much heat, which makes them safe to leave on for extended periods. However, as professional electricians, we advise clients to install sensors and timers that will turn LED lights off automatically when not in use.
Do LEDs get hot?
LEDs produce some heat, but much less than traditional incandescent bulbs. The heat generated is pulled away by a heat sink in the base of the bulb. This is the case for instance of LED light bulbs for cars and motorcycles.
Do LED lights cause anxiety?
To our knowledge, there is no direct evidence that LED lights cause anxiety. However, exposure to high-intensity, blue-rich light can interfere with sleep patterns, which could potentially affect mood and anxiety levels. We also read a research study indicating that sleep patterns can be interrupted by varying light intensity during the day, with some potential consequences on people’s health.
Why do LEDs make me feel sick?
Some people may feel sick from LED lights due to flicker sensitivity or overexposure to high-intensity, blue-rich light, which can cause eye strain and headaches. Ask a licensed electrician how to reduce these issues.
Do LED lights cause mental health issues?
To our knowledge, there’s no direct evidence that LED lights cause mental health issues. However, exposure to high-intensity, blue-rich light can interfere with sleep patterns, which could potentially affect mood and mental health. Ask your doctor about it.
Does LED light affect your brain?
LED lights can affect your brain indirectly by influencing your circadian rhythm. Exposure to blue light from LEDs in the evening can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep, potentially leading to sleep disturbances. Ask your doctor about it.
Do LED fixtures cause macular degeneration?
There’s some evidence suggesting that overexposure to blue light, which is emitted by LEDs and other digital screens, could contribute to macular degeneration over time. However, the consensus is that more research is needed to fully understand the link. Some mobile phone manufacturers offer a blue-light setting on their devices to moderate that risk.
How are LED lights different from traditional incandescent bulbs?
LEDs differ fundamentally in their operation. While incandescent bulbs produce light by heating a filament, LEDs use electroluminescence. This makes LEDs more energy-efficient, longer-lasting, and cooler. They also offer better luminous efficacy and diverse color temperature options.
Can I replace my existing light bulbs with LED bulbs?
Absolutely. Modern LED bulbs are designed to fit traditional sockets. When replacing, ensure the LED’s base type matches the socket and that its luminosity (measured in lumens) suits your needs. Also, consider color temperature for desired ambiance.
Are there specific types of LED lights for different areas of my home?
Yes. LEDs come in various forms: spotlights for focused lighting, strip lights for decorative purposes, and standard bulbs for general lighting. There are also specialized LEDs for wet locations like bathrooms and outdoors.
How do I choose the right LED light color for my space?
LEDs offer a range of color temperatures, measured in Kelvins (K). Warm light (2,000-3,000K) provides a cozy ambiance, while cool white (3,500-4,100K) is energizing. Daylight tones (5,000-6,500K) mimic natural sunlight. Choose based on room function and desired mood.
Are LED lights safer than traditional bulbs?
Yes, LEDs are safer. They produce minimal heat, reducing burn and fire risks. Unlike some fluorescents, they don’t contain hazardous substances like mercury. Their sturdy design, often without fragile glass components, also minimizes breakage risks.
Do LED lamps emit UV radiation?
LEDs emit negligible UV radiation, much less than other light sources. This minimal emission protects fabrics and artworks from fading and is safer for skin exposure, making them ideal for residential interiors.
Are there local regulations in San Antonio regarding LED fixture installation?
San Antonio has building codes and electrical regulations that cover lighting installations. LED installations generally follow standard electrical guidelines. We advise homeowners to hire a licensed electrician to ensure compliance and safety.
What are the different types of LED fixtures available in the market?
The LED market offers diverse options: standard bulbs, spotlights, floodlights, strip lights, and panel lights. There are also specialized LEDs for specific applications like horticultural growth, aquariums, and photography, catering to various needs and preferences.
Can I use LED fixtures for outdoor lighting?
Certainly. There are outdoor-specific LEDs designed to withstand environmental factors like rain and temperature fluctuations. They’re ideal for landscaping, patios, and security lighting, offering durability and efficient performance.
Are there dimmable LED fixtures?
Many LEDs are dimmable, allowing homeowners to adjust brightness. However, it’s essential to pair them with compatible dimmer switches to prevent flickering and ensure smooth dimming.
How do I choose between warm white, cool white, and daylight LED bulbs?
Warm white creates a cozy, welcoming ambiance, ideal for living rooms. Cool white is brighter, suitable for kitchens and workspaces. Daylight mimics natural light, perfect for reading or art studios. The choice depends on room function and personal preference.
How much does it typically cost to install LED fixtures in San Antonio?
Installation costs vary based on project scope and fixture type. Simple bulb replacements are cost-effective, while integrated systems might be pricier. It’s best to obtain quotes from local electricians for accurate estimates.
Can I install LED fixtures myself or should I hire a professional?
Simple bulb replacements are DIY-friendly. However, for installations involving wiring or complex fixtures, hiring a professional ensures safety and adherence to local regulations.
Can LED fixtures be used with smart home systems?
Yes. Many modern LEDs integrate with smart home systems, allowing remote control, dimming, color changing, and scheduling. They can work with platforms like Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit for enhanced home automation.
Are there any advanced LED lighting technologies or features I should be aware of?
Emerging LED technologies include Li-Fi, where LEDs transmit data, and human-centric lighting, adjusting light for well-being. Innovations like color-tunable LEDs and integrated sensors are also gaining traction, enhancing user experience.
How do LED fixtures impact the environment compared to other lighting options?
LEDs are environmentally favorable due to their energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions. They lack harmful chemicals like mercury. However, their recycling infrastructure isn’t as established as for incandescent bulbs, presenting some environmental challenges.
