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Comparison of Incandescent and LED Light Bulbs

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We use light bulbs every day: in our homes, cars, offices, stores, etc. But there’s more to them than just brightness; it’s about how they shine. The total utility coming out of an incandescent light bulb vs LED. Each has its charm and purpose, making it crucial to understand the difference between the two. Though their work is to light up the area, the light they emit is also significant. With this goal in mind, it is essential that you know the accurate comparison of incandescent vs LED.

Let’s Begin with the Meanings of LED and Incandescent Light

Imagine stepping into a time machine and traveling back to the 1800s, when the classic incandescent light bulb was just making its debut. These bulbs worked like magic, heating a tiny wire filament led to producing light and warmth. Encased in a glass bulb filled with a special inert gas, they’ve been our faithful companions for generations.

Fast forward to the modern era, where LED lights steal the spotlight. Forget about filaments—LEDs have a whole new trick up their sleeve. It is a tiny electrical device with two electrodes, anodes and cathodes, creating a pathway for electricity to flow through. It almost displays how a battery operates.

But instead of a glowing wire, LEDs are crafted from semi-conductive material wrapped in plastic. When the electrical current passes through this setup, it’s like a symphony of electrons, emitting visible light (known as photons) along the way. It brings both efficiency and innovation to the world of illumination.

For comparing incandescent light vs LED better, the energy used and output of LEDs and Incandescents must be taken into account.

Light Output LEDs Incandescent Lights
    Lumens Watts Watts
450              4 – 5 40
750 – 900 6 – 8 60
1100 – 1300 9 – 13 75 – 100
1600 – 1800   16 – 20 100
2600 – 2800   25 – 28 150

Source: eartheasy

Exploring where LED and Incandescent Lights are Used

When LED incandescent was compared LED showed more use than the latter. 

Previously LEDs were being used in computer circuit boards. From there, they’ve been popping up everywhere from traffic lights to flashy signs, and now, even lighting up our indoor and outdoor spaces. These lights can be used in gyms, energy-efficient spotlights, warehouses, schools, etc. to attain energy efficiency and well-lit areas. But it doesn’t stop there—LEDs are versatile enough to tackle even the biggest challenges. 

Meanwhile, incandescent lighting technology has found its cozy spot in residential and indoor settings, adding a warm, familiar glow to our everyday lives. But when it comes to the great outdoors or large-scale operations, its short lifespan and energy inefficiency hold it back from truly shining.

Shuffling through the Advantages of Incandescents and LEDs

When it comes to an incandescent bulb vs LED, choosing one will have its perks.

Incandescent bulbs might catch your eye with their lower price tag and easy availability at every corner store. But don’t underestimate the rise of LED—they’re gaining popularity for good reason.

LED lights are like the marathon runners of the lighting world, boasting a lifespan that can outlast even the most durable incandescent bulb. Plus, they’re energy-saving alternates, wasting less energy on heat production and lasting almost up to 10 years of continuous use.

But, LED lights are all about efficiency. Unlike their omnidirectional incandescent counterparts, they shine their light in a focused beam rather than scattering the light. This allows them to saving even more energy by directing it exactly where it’s needed.

LED bulbs might have a slightly higher price tag upfront, but when you analyze the lower maintenance costs and long life spans, they are the winner.

Looking at the Disadvantages of LED and Incandescent

If you are debating between incandescent bulbs vs LED, LED lights prove to be the smarter investment. 

Incandescent bulbs might tempt you with a lower price range. But think about this: while an incandescent bulb might only stick around for about 1,000 hours of use, an LED light can go on for up to 100,000 hours.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: “energy efficiency”. Incandescent bulbs heat up, gobbling up about 90% of the energy. It’s like throwing money out the window. LEDs, on the other hand, are all about efficiency, barely breaking a sweat to produce light and keeping heat to a minimum. It’s a no-brainer when you consider the numbers.

So sure, that initial sticker shock might make you pause, but when you consider the long-term savings on replacement and energy bills. LED lights emerge as the clear choice, it lights up your space while keeping your wallet happy.

Let’s look at a features table that can better explain the terms of Incandescent vs LED lights:

Major Comparisons LEDs Incandescents
Frequent Switch On/Off

Cycle

Nothing happens Yes
Instant power Yes Yes
Durability Durable Fragile
Heat Emitted Low (3 btu’s/hr) High (85 btu’s/hr)
Hazardous Materials None None
Sensitivity to high temperature Some No
Sensitivity to low temperature No No
Sensitivity to humidity No Some
Replacement frequency

(over 25k hours)

1 20+

Source: eartheasy

LEDS may put Incandescent Bulbs out of Business

Let’s break it down: incandescent bulbs are like energy black holes. They use only 1/20th of energy for visible light, while the rest is wasted as heat. It’s like paying for a full meal but only getting a measly snack on our plates. All that inefficiency adds up, hitting your wallet where it hurts. 

Even though the initial price might seem like a steal, you’ll end up paying the price in the long run with frequent replacements and sky-high energy bills. And if we talk about big buildings like schools or hospitals? Brace yourself for a hefty bill. It’s time to ditch the energy vampires and switch to LEDs for a brighter, more efficient future.

Conclusion

It’s clear: in the battle of “incandescent lights vs LED”, LEDs shine brighter in every way. With their long lifespan, energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance, they outclass incandescent lights without breaking a sweat. So why settle for outdated technology when you can illuminate the future with LEDs?

Reduce your electricity bills upto 90% with Fenice

Naveen Kumar
Naveen Kumar

October 18, 2023

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