Crosscurrents 08-09

We are always looking to cut down on energy costs, especially as the price of coal continues to rise and the economy continues to flounder. One exciting new innovation that perimeter lighting enthusiasts are beginning to adapt is LED outdoor light bulbs. While the idea may initially seem strange to some, many who have picked up the technology are seeing their energy costs dramatically decline.

Light-emitting diodes have been around for decades, but because the materials needed to produce them were so rare and expensive, hardly anyone outside of the industrial world was willing to give it a chance. But now, because of innumerable advances in the scientific and manufacturing worlds, we are seeing LED deployed in everything from our computer monitors to our flash lights.

Many people are uncomfortable with the high cost of purchasing LED lighting because it is still markedly more expensive than fluorescent bulbs. While you are going to pay more out of pocket on your initial ordering, you will be spending far less over time because LED lighting consumes way less energy than traditional bulbs. It also emits a much greater and thorough luminescence.

A few concerns, however, are the burning out process and the color representation that LED bulbs pose. Instead of suddenly going dark, LED bulbs fade slowly over time. This can be viewed as both a benefit and disadvantage. You can know when to order replacements, but you are still looking at a faded lighting source. LED has also been criticized because it tends to dull red and blue surfaces.