Why LED Consumes Less Power

A light emitting diode (LED) contains a semiconductor. The semiconductor acts as a junction through which electrical energy is filtered, releasing light as a by product. Light is therefore emitted directly from the source input, without first powering a separate light emitting load (e.g. filament). In this way, LED consumes less power than rival technologies. In comparison, other light emitting technologies (e.g. incandescent bulbs, neon lights, halogen lamps) present an energy drain where materials such as metals or gases must first be heated in order for light to be produced. See the following list for a better idea of energy consumption across common lighting options. Power needed for equal light output (luminosity):

• 40 Watts - Incandescent Bulb
• 29 Watts - Halogen
• 10 Watts - CFL
• 5 Watts - LED

Some of the more well-known statistics relating to the benefits of LED bulbs include “80% overall savings” and “25x longer lifespan”. We’ll take a closer look at some of the lesser known energy saving facts about LED bulbs further into the article. However, next we shall see how the science behind LED bulbs results in lower power consumption.

LEDs Consume Less Power - The Science

The semiconductor is located in the centre of an LED bulb. It’s the piece of technology responsible for lower energy bills. But how does it work? How a semiconductor (transistor) works… The semiconductor forms a small break in the circuit. This break is known as a junction. The junction is made up of one negatively charged plate and one positively charged plate. The plates are fixed in place facing one another, but not touching. When connected to a circuit, electricity is compelled to cross the junction due to the negative/positive attraction. However, the plate that receives the energy does not have the capacity to allow all of the energy to continue along the circuit. Energy must be released, given off as light. This means that light is actually the by product of a simple electrical circuit - in other words, the electricity is put to full use, instead of powering something else to make light, it simply makes its own. This is why LED consumes less power than other conventional methods of lighting.

Benefits of LED

Switching to LED bulbs for all home and industrial lighting solutions can and will save money and energy over time. With the average bulb lifespan exceeding twenty years, many people are choosing to invest in LED bulbs for the added bonus of reduced maintenance. What other facts make LED the smart choice? LED facts:

• Reduced Heat LED bulbs are designed with heat dissipation in mind. Design features include heat sinks, meaning that what little heat is generated is not allowed to build up. Unlike traditional bulbs, LED lights are not typically hot to the touch.
• Environmentally Friendly LED bulbs do not contain any hazardous chemicals or materials. Unlike incandescent bulbs or CFL bulbs, for example, LEDs are not harmful to the environment. This means that LED bulbs may be recycled as part of normal household waste.
• The Ongoing LED Revolution LEDs can now be found everywhere. From TVs, smartphones, and traffic lights, to torches, headlamps, streetlights, and exterior home lighting. The savings involved have been driving increased demand and global production for more than a decade.

Contact us today: For expert advice and guidance on LED bulbs, contact our friendly and experienced team today. Visit LED Hut for more information.