Light-emitting diodes, often known simply as LEDs, differ significantly from traditional light sources. Unlike traditional lights that either use a heated filament or glowing gas, LEDs use semiconductor diodes that release electrons. LED light bulbs in your home and landscape present several advantages both for your health and for general household maintenance.
No Mercury
Compact fluorescent light bulbs, standard fluorescent light bulbs and some other forms of light fixtures contain mercury, warns the U.S. Department of Energy. This substance is toxic to you and the environment. If the bulb breaks, the toxin can be released. In contrast, LED lights contain no mercury and are thus safer.
Breakage Resistance
Among traditional light sources, incandescent light bulbs are enclosed in glass around a filament. Constant vibration or an impact can break the internal filament, thus disrupting your light source, or even shatter the glass and create a safety hazard. In contrast, the U.S. Department of Energy says LEDs usually don't use glass, nor do they require a filament. This makes them more reliable in areas where there's a high potential for impact or vibration, such as lighting an often used door.
Energy Efficiency
LED bulbs use much less energy than traditional sources to produce light. The Northwest Arkansas Community College reports that, in some cases, LEDs can use up to 90 percent less electricity. This can save your household a significant amount in your utility bill.
Low Heat Output
Some traditional light bulbs become warm or even hot to the touch when they're running. Not so with LEDs, which stay cool while powered on, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This may make them safer if you're worried about young children touching a light and getting burned.
Long Life
Average LEDs last for 100,000 hours of constant running, according to the Northwest Arkansas Community College. This is longer than most other types of bulbs. A longer lifespan means potentially lower maintenance costs and less time replacing your bulbs.
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