LEDs have changed the lighting industry, and even the world as we know it. But while everyone is probably familiar with the acronym and the fact that LEDs are energy efficient, there’s a lot more to know. Here are three things to understand about LEDs.
It’s Short For…
LED is an acronym for light-emitting diode. A diode is an electrical device made from some sort of semiconductive material, like selenium or silicon. It has an anode and a cathode, and electricity moves through one and out through the other. A light-emitting diode, or LED, is a semiconductor device that lights up when an electrical current moves through it. The LED itself is also exceptionally tiny, which contributes to their versatility in a range of unusual applications.
They’re Green – In More Ways than One
The energy efficiency is a hallmark of LED lighting - they’re up to 80% more efficient, with a significantly longer lifespan. Drawing less energy means less demand on power plants and fewer greenhouse gas emissions. But LEDs are better for the environment in another way, too. While traditional lighting options often contain mercury, requiring special handling once a product has reached the end of its service life, that doesn’t happen with LEDs. That’s because they don’t contain toxic elements.
The Light is Different
As a directional light source, LEDs emit light in a specific direction. Every other kind of light emits light in a full, 360-degree circle around the light source, which requires accessory devices to reflect or redirect the light. LEDs also have a high color rendering index (CRI), which measures a light’s ability to show true color in comparison to natural light. While applications vary, this is typically a benefit.
Plus, LEDs can be designed to generate the entire spectrum of visible light colors. Traditional lighting solutions can also be colored, but they require color filters.
The Takeaway
LEDs have quickly become a versatile, useful technology for commercial, industrial, retail, and residential applications. If you’re considering the wisdom of upgrading to LEDs, contact Have Lights Will Travel in Nevada today. We’ll be happy to answer all of your questions.