Do You Require Special LED Lamps for LED Bulbs?

No one is surprised to hear that money makes the world go round, but some of the ways people try to make money can be shocking. So, here is the scoop on LED lamps and the need to retrofit or change out fixtures in order to use LED bulbs.

The only time you would need to switch out fixtures is if you are searching for new options in commercial lighting or you want to use the new LED tube bulbs in an old fluorescent tube fixture. To use the new 2 pin replacements you would need to remove or bypass the old ballast and starter in the fixture - a simple enough job.

Selecting Bulbs for your Lamps

Switching to LED bulbs is no more difficult than switching a light bulb. The key issue is getting the right replacement bulb when you go shopping. Fewer manufacturers are placing wattage upon their packaging; instead you will start seeing things marked with lumens, or labeled as "replaces 40W." Check labels carefully, and make sure you are getting LED bulbs, not CFL bulbs which are similarly packaged.

To replace a 25 watt bulb, look for about 250 lumens. A 40 watt replacement LED should generate 400-500 lumens. A 60 watt alternative should run about 800 lumens and a 100 watt replacement ought to be rated for 1400-1700 lumens.

The Advantages of LEDs

First and foremost you will save a tremendous amount of electricity. On average LED bulbs use 80%-90% less energy to deliver the same light as comparable incandescent bulbs. When compared to CFL bulbs, they are almost 50% more efficient. That's a lot of juice when you take in to account your whole home.

LED bulbs don't require a warm up time, they contain no mercury and many of them can be used with dimmer switches. Your average LED bulb will last 20 years or more, even with constant use. They generate nearly no heat, making them easy to change. Finally, they don't contain mercury, which all fluorescent bulbs do.

While the initial cost with LED lamps is higher, the overall cost will be significantly lower. Consider starting small, with a hard to reach fixture - it won't be long before you join the movement to safer, more environmentally sound lighting choices.