Switch to LEDs
Replacing just 5 incandescent light bulbs with LEDs can save $60 or more per year in electricity costs! Upgrading to LEDs is one of the easiest ways to save energy and money.
Your Impact
Action Steps & Tips
Introduction
What about CFLs? Now that LEDs are lower in cost, they are the best choice. LEDs last longer than CFLs and are easy to dispose of—unlike CFL bulbs which contain mercury and must be disposed of with care. LEDs also come in a wide variety of sizes and colors and can make lighting fun! Replacing your incandescent bulbs with LEDs is one of the easiest things you can do to save time, energy, and money. If you have some CFLs now, since they are also efficient, wait until they need replacement to switch.
1Choose the right bulb for your home
LEDs are new and so sometimes it can be a bit confusing to figure out which ones to get. Below are a few tips to help. If you’re ready to go and have it all figured out, go to step #2 and mark it done!
First, make a list of the bulbs you need and think about each area you will be lighting. What time of day will you use the light? Do you need a bright light for a home office or a softer light for a family room? Does the bulb need to work with a dimmer? Is it a special size like a globe or recessed ceiling light?
Brightness. LED brightness is on a completely different scale than traditional incandescent lights and this can be confusing. Luckily LED manufacturers have translated for us and usually list a “Watt equivalent” rating. So you can look for the same ratings you are used to—40, 60 75 or 100-watt bulbs. A 40-watt equivalent bulb is good for lower light needs, 60-watt for average uses and 75 or 100-watts for high lighting requirements—like in the kitchen or a working space with low natural light.
Light color. LEDs come in a few basic colors including “soft white”, “bright white”, “cool white” or “daylight”—each a bit brighter than the one before. For daytime use in work areas like a home office or the kitchen, a bright or cool white light are a good choice. For spaces used in the evening, or where lower light is preferred, a soft white creates a calmer and more relaxing environment. Many stores have lighting displays where you can see the different bulb colors and pick which one you prefer. Some new LED products include colored bulbs like blue or purple. With a smart light controller, you can even change the color of the bulb from your phone! Check out the Smart Lighting action for more info.
Size, shape & recommended use. LEDs come in a size that fits standard light fixtures. They also come in globe, can, flood and other sizes if you have a special fixture. Just look for the size that fits your light fixture. Some LEDs also come with a dimmer option. Make sure to choose one with a dimmer if you need it. And of course, look for the blue Energy Star rating to find bulbs that will save you energy and last a long time.
2Change your bulbs and save
Once you’ve replaced your traditional bulbs, you can relax and forget about it. These long-lasting bulbs won’t need to be changed again for a long time. Spend the extra time figuring out what to do with the savings!