Spotlight on LED Lights

One of the products we're asked about most by our customers is LED lights – whether we install them (the answer is yes) and whether they’re really worth the hype (again, the answer is yes).

Here’s the five questions we get asked the most about LED lighting; if you want to know more about LED lights, feel free to get in touch with us for an obligation-free chat. 

So... What is LED lighting?

LED lights are the latest technology in energy efficient lighting. LED stands for ‘Light Emitting Diode’, a semiconductor device that converts electricity into light.

What are the benefits of LED lighting?

LED lights have two main benefits. Firstly, they’re super energy efficient, using approximately 85% less energy than halogen or incandescent lighting. The benefit for you is significant savings on your power bills. 

Secondly, LED lights have a much longer lifespan than other types of lighting, which means less outlay in replacing blown bulbs. Depending the manufacturer’s guidelines (this is important), a typical LED light has a life expectancy of 20,000 to 50,000 hours - roughly 30 times longer than incandescent lights. At eight hours per day, this equates to approximately 17 years.

Is LED lighting expensive?

LED technology is moving fast and it’s now cheaper to install LED lighting than it ever has been. Despite having a higher initial outlay than incandescent or halogen lighting, LED lights’ longer lifespan and energy efficiency means you’ll quickly recoup the costs – and continue to save for years to come. 

Are LEDs able to be dimmed and do they come in different colour systems?

(Technically, that's two questions.) Yes – we install LED lights that can be dimmed. You can choose between warm and cool lighting systems.

How complicated is it to upgrade our current lighting system to LED?

Not complicated at all. 

5 tips for keeping winter energy costs down

Is your winter power bill coming in a little high? Here’s 5 quick tips to help keep winter energy costs down.

1. AVOID PEAK ELECTRICITY TIMES

. Limit your household chores during ‘peak’ electricity times – generally between 6 – 10 am and 3 – 9 pm. Energy costs are more expensive during peak times; if you can hold off using your dishwasher or washing machine during these times, you’ll notice the difference in your power bill.  Energy peak times do vary, so check with your energy provider for exact details.

2. TIME YOUR USAGE

A programmable timer is a relatively cheap investment that helps keep losses to a minimum. Use the timer to turn heating off during the day when the house is empty; programme it to turn on shortly before you are due home. You can do the same with your heated towel rail.

3. MAKE THE SWITCH TO LED

These shorter winter days mean we’re switching our lights on earlier and keeping them on longer, equating to higher energy costs. If you’ve not already made the switch, consider LED lighting. LED lighting uses 80% less energy and lasts 25 times longer than traditional incandescent lighting.

4. KEEP YOUR APPLIANCES IN CHECK

Create a good habit of regularly checking your appliances to ensure they’re running at optimum. Things like fridge, freezer and oven seals can cause energy leaks when failing while regularly cleaning filters on heating appliances ensure they’re not building up dust, which impairs their efficiency.

5. NOT USING AN APPLIANCE? SWITCH IT OFF

Switch appliances off at the wall when you’re not using them. TVs, laptops, PlayStation... All guilty of using unnecessary energy when they’re not in use.