Talk to any electrician, and you will soon discover that they will strongly recommend LED lights. At first, glance, LED‘s may seem like they are too expensive, but when their energy savings, longevity, and capabilities are considered, it is easy to see why they are such a favorite. It is hard to argue against something that converts 80% of its energy to light and that may last up to 22 years. The traditional incandescent light bulb can hardly say that.
What is an LED?
LED stands for light emitting diode. They are housed in single small plastic bulbs that can be as small as one to two mm. Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs, they have no filament that can burn out. LED‘s are designed so that the photons are released in an outward direction. While LEDs were originally red, they know come in a wide variety of colors that cover the color spectrum. These characteristics make the LED light ideal for a wide variety of jobs and a favorite of most any electrician.
History of LED
Britain’s H.J. Round can find the roots of the LED light in the 1907 discovery of electroluminescence. Twenty years later Russia’s Oleg Vladimirovich Losev created the first LED light. However, it was not until 1962 that the first red LED was produced at General Electric by Nick Holonyak Jr. Holonyak was sometimes referred to as the “father of the LED.” Unfortunately, the cost of the LED made use of the technology impractical at the time. It was not until the 1970s that their use became more widespread.
Energy Savings
Though LEDs do cost more than traditional lighting, an electrician will still advise clients to make the switch due to the energy savings. Not only do they output more light per watt than a traditional bulb, but also they do so at 80% efficiency. That is compared to 20% efficiency of an incandescent. In addition, the LED has a longer lifetime, up to 100,000 hours depending on heat and current. That is an incredible 22 years for one bulb.
Capabilities of LED
An electrician might also suggest switching to LEDs because of their superior capabilities. First, unlike traditional bulbs, an LED is more durable and reliable. Their plastic housing makes them more shock resistant. In addition, they are able to produce colors without any of the filters, they can be easily dimmed, and they produce little heat. Interestingly, the output of the bulb actually rises in colder temperatures, and the LED is very fast to switch on and off, making them perfect for cycling.
Uses for LED
Originally, the LED light was used as an indicator light for devices – that little blinking red light that means the device is on. However, as the energy efficiency and the cost of the LED lights have evolved, so too have the uses. LEDs can now be found in everything from aviation, to automobiles, to traffic lights. Their small size makes them perfect for circuit boards and their lack of heat makes them ideal for heat sensitive products.
The LED has come a long way since the first one in 1927. Though the cost is still greater than traditional lighting, the energy savings and the capabilities of the LED light make them a favorite of most any electrician. Just look around and chances are there are LEDs being used for a surprising variety of purposes. They might be found on the remote, the TV, or computer, in the car, or even in a plane.
With over 30 years of experience, Bob Lord is an expert at installing and repairing electrical wiring. Bob has a unique and outstanding knowledge of residential and commercial electrical installation and repair.
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Author: Bob D. Lord
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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