LED lighting: pros and cons

LED (Lighting Emitting Diode) is one of the modern lighting methods. It has gained popularity through a number of advantages. Long service life, safety or energy efficiency are just some of them. Is it worth opting for this solution? Read the article about the advantages as well as the disadvantages of this solution.

Pros of LED solutions

Long service life

LED bulbs can last up to 50 times longer than their classic counterparts. They offer up to 50,000 hours of operation. Their on/off cycles reach up to 25,000 times. These properties make them more economical and sustainable. Mercury and other harmful substances are not used in the production of LEDs, which also has a positive impact on the environment.

If you are concerned about long service life, choose LEDs that are pre-installed in the luminaires. A Kanlux RIFA LED ceiling light or Kanlux ASTEN LED IP44 wall luminaire will work well. This is due to the design of the power supply, in a small bulb it is much simpler and in a luminaire it is more complex, better stabilised. But do not worry, screw-in light sources - commonly referred to as LED bulbs - do not differ from them in terms of durability (up to 50,000 hours). However, bear in mind when buying that sometimes it is better to pay extra and buy a new bulb from a manufacturer that has been on the market for many years, specialises in lighting technology, and has researched and tested its products. By buying a trustworthy product you will save time, as you will not have to file a complaint about it, and money, as you will buy it once and the product will serve you for a long time.

Pros of LED solutions

Safety

A standard bulb produces 80% heat and 20% light from the energy it consumes. LEDs work in opposite proportions. For this reason, they are safer and more commonly used in areas where excessive heat would be hazardous or inadvisable near textiles (beds, lamps with lampshades), on furniture, or in places where we want it to be cooler (larders, cold rooms).

In a domestic setting, it is advisable to install LEDs in lamps where there is direct access (e.g. on a desk) and we can come into contact with the lamp by accident, and near natural materials (linen, wood, paper).

"LED lighting is a frequent choice of our customers. They opt for them mainly because of their energy efficiency and long service life. In addition, they are impressed by the aesthetics. For example, LED strips look great in profiles and covered with diffusing shades, and the use of different colours of light adds variety to the interior," says ... from Kanlux. 

Dominik Sitko Kanlux Product Manager

Pros of LED solutions

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is one of the main reasons for choosing LEDs. They use less energy than traditional lighting (the LED XLED EX model uses 15 times less energy and provides the same amount of light as a traditional incandescent 60W bulb), so they are an ideal choice if you want to reduce your electricity costs. All thanks to the fact that LEDs emit very little heat and the energy they consume is converted into light.

The savings can be as much as several tens of PLN per month. The exact amount depends on the bulbs previously used, their wattage and the number of lamps in the house.

Pros of LED solutions

Colour and intensity of the light

LED technology makes it possible to vary the colour of the light. For instance, LED strips that can be installed under the ceiling or next to cabinets are popular. In the kitchen and wardrobe, opt for a cold colour, such as 6000K, which will not distort the colours and will give you a burst of energy. In the bedroom, definitely let a warm colour prevail, as it is conducive to relaxation (from 1800-2500 Kelvin), while in the living room and bathroom, lights with a neutral white colour (i.e. around 4000K) will work well.

In addition to this, the short time it takes for the LED to reach full luminous efficiency is another advantage. Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs, LED reaches full power as soon as it is switched on.

Pros of LED solutions

Durability

LED bulbs do not contain fragile elements (like the familiar rods in a traditional incandescent bulb). Light shocks and impacts will not affect their service life. Durability is linked to both safety and long service life. Therefore, even without additional shades (which also provide some protection for the regular bulbs), they are safe and, in addition, decorative in their own right, as in the LED ST64 A model.

Cons of LED solutions

Purchase costs

Most people perceive their cost as a disadvantage. However, it must be taken into account that this is a one-off expense and, in the long run, is more cost-effective. Traditional incandescent bulbs can be used for up to 2,000 hours, while LEDs last up to 25 times longer, besides they lower electricity bills, so are they really more expensive? Try to take advantage of price promotions or buy LED multipacks.

Cons of LED solutions

Temperature influence

Although LEDs are a safe and cost-effective option, they are sensitive to high temperatures. This means that they may start to become less luminous in these conditions. It is worth remembering that these are extremes that do not occur when it comes to use in a house or flat. To avoid such situations outdoors, take care first and foremost of the IP rating of the lighting you want to install on the façade or in the garden - the minimum is IP40. Then it is certain that freezing water will not get into the lamp and cause an unpleasant surprise. Also, do not let any fallen leaves remain on the luminaires and do not allow your lamps to grow moss (as this may happen in autumn). Proper ventilation is important for LEDs just as it was important for standard incandescent bulbs.

Cons of LED solutions

Low colour rendering index

It probably will not be apparent at first glance, but not all LED bulbs are yet capable of producing light that does not distort colours. Fortunately, technology is at such a high level that a solution to this problem is at hand and it is only a matter of time when the standard will be maintained in every case. In some Kanlux iQ-LED models, the index reaches values above 97, which is an excellent result. However, always check the index before making a purchase (from 0 to 100, the higher the better); the minimum is 80, so do not fall for false products. The colour of the paint on the wall, too strong, orange make-up - by keeping an eye on this parameter you will avoid such surprises.

You will probably also like: Four reasons to choose lighting with light intensity and colour adjustment options

Cons of LED solutions

Visible diodes

For some this is a big advantage and for others a disadvantage. The lack of diffusion can be disruptive, especially when it comes to auxiliary lighting such as standing lamps. Before choosing light bulbs for the whole house, it is a good idea to test whether a particular type of light will be suitable. The answer lies in LED filament bulbs, which feature LEDs that are spread out on rods and shine evenly in all directions. Instead of glass surfaces, you can also choose a milky bubble or frosted glass to diffuse the light. There is also an increasing number of decorative solutions with COB LEDs, i.e. LEDs that shine over their entire length.

LED lighting is one of the best solutions on the market. Long service life, safety or energy efficiency are features that convince customers to choose them. Even if we take into account the one-off higher cost, it is a good investment, because of their high quality. It is difficult to find traditional solutions in homes any more, and the LED lighting has also convinced many people in workplaces, cafés, hotels and production halls.

LED lighting: pros and cons

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