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Energy Efficient Lighting

Lighting Design: Energy Efficient Lighting

Energy Efficient Lighting

It's easy to appreciate a light that doesn't just look beautiful, but is easy on the environment, too. Significant advances in technology and innovations in design make our energy efficient LED and fluorescent lamps more functional and good-looking than ever. So whether you need a statement pendant for your dining room or a sleek lamp for your desk, you can find an earth-friendly option to get the job done.
Not sure which energy efficient option is right for you? Our Energy Efficient Lighting Comparison Chart and Energy Efficient Buying Guide can help you out.
Shop Energy Efficient Lighting. To shop LED + Fluorescent Lighting, click on the "Shop" tab below.
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Energy Efficient Lighting Comparison Chart

Incandescent

Halogen

Fluorescent

LED

Initial Cost

 Low Moderate Moderate High

Operating Cost

 High High Low Low

Color Rendering Index

 Excellent Excellent Good Good

Color Temperature

 Warm Neutral to Warm Cool to Warm Neutral to Warm

Dimmable

 Yes Yes Yes, can be expensive Yes

Directionality

 Poor Good Poor Excellent

Efficacy

 Poor
(10 Lumens per Watt)		 Poor
(15 Lumens per Watt)		 Poor
(70-100 Lumens per Watt)		 Excellent
(20-50 Lumens per Watt)Poor
(10 Lumens per Watt)

Life Span (in hours)

 1,000 2,000-2,500 10,000 60,000-100,00

Ballast + Transform Requirements

 None Some Yes Yes

 

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LED Basics

An LED, or Light Emitting Diode, is based on electrifying a diode that emits a single wavelength (color) of radiation depending on the compound of the diode. Since this design doesn't rely on heat to produce its light, it runs cooler and is much more energy efficient than an incandescent bulb. Shop LED Lamps now.

LED Advantages:

  • Energy efficient. LED light bulbs typically use only 2-10 watts of electricity (1/3rd to 1/30th of the electricity Incandescent or fluorescents use).
  • Long lasting. LED bulbs last up to 10 times as long as fluorescent and CFL bulbs, and far longer than typical incandescent. Mercury free. No mercury is used in the manufacturing of LEDs.
  • Small size. Fixtures using LEDs have unsurpassed design capabilities due to their small size.
  • Cool to the touch. LEDs do not cause heat build-up; they produce 3.4 btu's/hour, compared to 85 for incandescent bulbs. This also cuts down on air conditioning costs in the home.
  • Durable. Since LEDs don't have a filament, they aren't damaged under circumstances when a regular incandescent bulb would be broken. Because they are solid, LED bulbs hold up well to jarring and bumping.
  • Mercury free. No mercury is used in the manufacturing of LEDs.
  • Low maintenance costs. LEDs save in maintenance and replacement costs because of their long lifetime.
  • Slow failure. Unlike incandescent, fluorescent and CFLs, which burn out abruptly, LEDs slowly dim over time.

    • LED Limitations:

  • Higher up-front cost. Fixtures using LED lamps typically cost more than a fixture using incandescent, halogen, fluorescent or CFLs. However, that cost can be re-cooped in energy savings.
  • Limited applications. LEDs light a small area of space, making them great candidates for task lighting, but not general lighting applications.

    • Best Uses for LED:

  • Task lighting
  • Accent and display lighting
  • Cove lighting
  • Outdoor and landscape accent lighting
  • Undercabinet Lighting
  • Recessed lighting
  • Stair and walkway lighting
  • Difficult to reach places (due to LEDs long life)

    • Shop LED Lamps now.



    YLighting LED Lamp Buyers' Guide FAQs

    What is an LED and how does it work?
    Light emitting diode (LED) technology is based on electrifying a diode that emits a single wavelength (color) of radiation. To gain a broader spectral output, these diodes are mated with phosphor technology in the same manner as fluorescent lamps. Diodes are relatively small (about 1/3 of an inch square), so an LED bulb has many of those tiny chips clustered together to create adequate light.

    LEDs are undergoing the most vigorous advancement of the electric lighting technologies. What was once used as the indicator light on your VCR has now been reborn into a nearly full spectrum source used for its red-blue-green color mixing capabilities and as a neutral source for tasks and accents.

    What are the advantages of LEDs?
    LEDs have several advantages over conventional incandescent lamps. For one thing, they don't have a filament that will burn out, so they last much longer. Additionally, their small plastic bulb makes them very durable. They also fit more easily into modern electronic circuits. But the main advantage is efficiency. In conventional incandescent bulbs the light-production process involves generating a lot of heat (the filament must be warmed). This is completely wasted energy, unless you're using the lamp as a heater, because a large portion of the available electricity isn't going toward producing visible light. Conversely, LEDs generate very little heat, meaning a much higher percentage of the electrical power is going directly to generating light, which cuts down on the electricity demands considerably.

    What are the disadvantages of LEDs?
    The higher upfront cost of LEDs relative to other traditional lamps continues to be a drawback. However, given their energy savings and long life, most people typically make back the initial cost within a couple of years. Another limitation to LEDs is that they light a small area of space relative to other lamping options. This makes them a great candidate for task lighting, but not general or ambient lighting applications.

    Why do LEDs cost more than other lighting options?
    LED sources are the cutting edge of technology, and, as such, they are expensive to buy. Like all things economic, prices will likely drop as volume and popularity grow.

    Where should I use LEDs?
    LEDs have excellent directionality, making them a great option for the following lighting applications:

  • Task and reading lamps
  • Pendants and overhead
  • Accent and display lighting
  • Cove lighting
  • Outdoor and landscape accent lighting
  • Linear strip lighting (under kitchen cabinets)
  • Recessed lighting/ceiling cans
  • Stair and walkway lighting
  • Difficult to reach places (due to their long life and low maintenance)
  • Art lighting (unlike incandescent and fluorescents, LEDs don't produce UV radiation, making them safe for artwork.)

    • How long will an LED last?
    A quality LED lamp can last anywhere from 75,000 to 100,000 hours. If you operate the lamp for 8 hours per day, 365 days a year, your LED lamp could last 25-34 years!

    Do I have to replace individual LED diodes?
    An LED does not burn out like a standard lamp, so individual diodes do not need to be replaced. Instead, the diodes gradually produce lower output levels over a very long period of time. An LED is typically considered "dead" at 70% of initial light output.

    Is it true that LEDs produce a blue glow?
    Historically, LEDs received a bad rap for producing a greenish to bluish color. However, the recent development of LED technology has seen high output white light growing at an exponential rate without sacrificing color rendering or efficiency.

    How does the brightness of LED lighting compare to incandescent lighting?
    LED light bulbs are much brighter than incandescent or halogen bulbs of the same wattage, but LEDs are not available in very high wattages. Thus, when replacing incandescent or halogen lamps with LED lamps, more LED lamps are often needed. For example, to replace one 100-watt incandescent bulb you may need two 5-watt or 6-watt LED bulbs. Although you have more bulbs you are still using 85% less electricity.

    How efficient are LED bulbs compared to incandescent bulbs?
    The efficacy of newer LED light bulbs is more than five times higher than comparable incandescent bulbs. In other words, LED light bulbs use only about 20% as much electricity to produce the same amount of light. However, because LED bulbs direct a larger percentage of light where it is needed, in many applications they are as much as ten times as effective as incandescent bulbs, reducing energy use by 90%.

    Can LEDs replace the conventional incandescent and CFL light bulbs in my existing fixtures?
    The ability to purchase an LED bulb and screw it into an existing incandescent fixture (like you can with a CFL) is known as retrofitting. Currently, retrofitting isn't widely available for LEDs. You may find an LED module that can physically fit into an existing incandescent fixture, but that fixture likely doesn't maximize the LED's efficiency. The good news is that much advancement is being made in retrofitting LEDs, and we expect to see more options available soon.

    Are LED lights dimmable?
    Yes, LEDs can be dimmed. But similar to fluorescent sources, the dimming is in the driver or transformer technology and must be specified as such from the manufacturer.

    Do LEDs generate noise when in use?
    No. Unlike some incandescent, halogen and fluorescent lamps, LEDs do not "buzz" when powered on or when dimmed.

    Shop LED Lamps now.



    Fluorescent and CFL Basics

    Fluorescent lamps produce light when an electric arc passes between cathodes to excite mercury and other gases producing radiant energy, which is then converted to visible light by a phosphor coating.

    A compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) is a type of fluorescent lamp. The screw-in CFLs can be used to replace incandescent lamps in standard lamp sockets.

    Fluorescent and CFL Advantages:

  • Energy efficient. Fluorescents and CFLs use about 50-80% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
  • Long life. Fluorescents and CFLs last about 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
  • Improving color temperatures. Previously, fluorescents were known for only producing a cool white color. Today's fluorescent and CFL options can produce a warmer "yellow" color.
  • Versatile. CFLs can be applied nearly anywhere that incandescent lights are used.

    • Fluorescent and CFL Limitations:

  • Mercury contents. Fluorescents and CFLs contain small amounts of the toxic metal mercury. This metal may be released if the bulb is broken, or during disposal.
  • Sensitivity to on/off cycling. The lifetime of CFLs is reduced in applications where the light is switched on and off frequently.
  • Dimming limitations. Dimmable CFLs are available, but be sure to choose a CFL that states it can be used on dimmer switches. Using a regular CFL on a dimmer can reduce its lifespan.
  • Limited outdoor use. Fluorescents and CFLs can be used outdoors, but should be covered or shaded from the elements. Low temperatures may reduce light levels - check the package label to see if the bulb is suited for outdoor use.
  • Cooler color temperatures. While fluorescent technology provides lamps with warmer color temperatures, fluorescents and CFLs still don't produce light quite as warm as incandescent or halogen lamps.

    • Best Uses for Fluorescents and CFLs:

  • General lighting in high-use areas such as family and living rooms, kitchens, dining rooms and bedrooms.
  • Recessed lighting
  • Decorative lighting
  • Task lighting
  • Outdoor lighting (in areas that stay above 40° Farenheit)
  • Wall washing
  • Wall Sconces

    • Shop Fluorescent Lamps now.





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    Catalog Code:
    Energy Star

    Energy Star is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency.

    Energy Efficient

    Energy efficient lighting delivers exceptional design and performance while using 50%-75% less energy than incandescent or incandescent halogen bulbs. This means you can save money while helping protect our planet.

    Our energy efficient lighting meets Title 24 efficacy standards and includes fluorescent, LED and high intensity discharge lighting options.

    YLighting Exclusive

    We love modern lighting. Working with leading designers and manufacturers, we're proud to bring you the finest in modern lighting, accessories and offers that you can only find at YLighting.com.

    100% Price Match

    YLighting wants you to buy from us confident that you will not find a lower price, or better service. If you find a lower "To-Your-Door" advertised price we will match the competitor's price. The "To-Your-Door" price is the total price of the order delivered to your door, including product costs, tax, shipping and/or handling fees. The competitor must be a United States based, authorized retailer for the manufacturer. The product must be the identical, including being built to United States specifications. YLighting must be able to directly verify the competitor's price with a uniquely identifiable invoice, faxed or emailed to YLighting, dated within 15 days of the YLighting purchase. Invoice must include actual shipping and handling costs (shipping estimates are not acceptable).

    The 100% Price Protection Guarantee excludes price matching on clearance, returns and closeout items. Price Protection Guarantee does not apply to Lutron and Cree brand products. Other restrictions may apply.

    Found a lower price? Tell us now.

    Remodel Housings

    In contrast to new construction housings, remodeling housings are appropriate when you have limited or no access to the space above a new fixture, such as in an apartment or a home without crawl spaces or attics above.

    New Construction Housings

    In contrast to remodeling housings, new construction housings are bulkier and need to be installed between joist beams or onto hangar bars and thus you need full access to the space above the fixture. This style is best used if you are building in a new space, gutting a room, or have an attic above or pop out ceiling, etc.

    Non-IC Rated

    Non-IC stands for: non insulation contact. Thus, non-IC-rated housings must be kept at least 3 inches away from any insulation.

    IC Rated

    IC stands for: insulation contact. Thus, IC-rated housings can come in direct contact with thermal insulation.

    MR16 Halogen Bulb

    MR 16 is a standard format for halogen multifaceted reflector light bulbs. MR16 lamps are regularly used in place of standard incandescent light bulbs as they harness and shoot light, resulting in less light loss than a traditional bulb. These are best used when you want focused light such as in a pendant over a countertop or an accent light on a painting.

    cUL Listed

    CUL stands for Underwriters Laboratories of Canada, a non-profit company that tests electrical components and equipment for potential hazards. If something is UL-listed, I means it has met the agency's safety requirements for things like fire, shock hazards, etc. While you can buy and install non-UL listed fixtures, sometimes insurance policies will limit their liabilities accordingly, inspectors may not approve permits, etc.

    UL Listed

    UL stands for Underwriters Laboratories, a non-profit company that tests electrical components and equipment for potential hazards. If something is UL-listed, it means it has met the agency's safety requirements for things like fire, shock hazards, etc. While you can buy and install non-UL listed fixtures, sometimes insurance policies will limit their liabilities accordingly, inspectors may not approve permits, etc.

    Damp Location

    If the environment exposes the lighting system to moisture condensation, then the location is a damp location. Lights that are approved for damp locations can be used in sheltered outdoor areas such as roofed porches or interior locations subject to moderated degrees of moisture such as basements.

    Wet Location

    If the lighting system is exposed to direct impact by water from splashing or dripping, which will make the fixture wet, then the location is a wet location. Your most common wet locations are uncovered outdoor areas.

    Baffle Trim

    The term Baffle refers to the grooved style of the trim. This trim is the most popular choice of all recessed lighting trims and is best used in living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and dens.

    Open Reflector

    Reflector trims have a higly polished inner trim, which gives the most amount of light off of the light bulb. This trim is perfect for use in kitchens, offices and commercial buildings.

    Slotted Aperture

    The slotted aperture trim is used to highlight or accent a specific object or space.

    Pin Hole

    Pin Hole trims give off a narrow spread of light. This trim is perfect for highlight a small object from above.

    Baffle

    The term Baffle refers to the grooved style of the trim. This trim is the most popular choice of all recessed lighting trims and is best used in living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and dens.

    Step Baffle

    A Step Baffle refers to the evenly spaced and large grooves in the trim. This trim is for use in all living spaces in a house (bedrooms, living rooms, and dens).

    Wall Wash

    Wall Wash trims will have a shield inserted into the trim. This allows the light to be directed at an angle against a wall or large surface: paintings, large photos, etc.

    Gimbal Ring

    Gimbal Ring trims allow the light bulb to be directed or angled to highlight a specific spot or general area. This trim is popular in living rooms, dens and home offices.

    Eyeball

    Eyeball trims refer to the look of the trim as an eyeball. The bulb is housed in the eyeball portion and allows for maximum adjustability in positioning the light. This trim is for use in living rooms, dens and home offices.

    Aperture Cone

    This trim is for use when superior performance photometrics is desired and low glare is needed. These trims are typically used in commercial applications.

    Regressed Fresnel Lens

    Lensed trims are for use in wet locations, such as showers, bathrooms and outside applications.

    Scoop Wall Wash

    Scoop Wall Wash trims will have a shield inserted into the trim. This allows the light to be directed at an angle against a wall or large surface: paintings, large photos, etc.).

    SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS is the premium brand for the finest crystal elements manufactured by Swarovski. Available in a myriad of colors, effects, shapes and sizes. Formerly known as Strass® Swarovski® crystal, SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS have been the choice of designers since 1895. Machine-cut and polished to perfection, the logo is engraved in miniature in each piece to prevent imitations.

    SPECTRA® Crystal stands for machine cut Swarovski crystal with reliable Swarovski quality. SPECTRA® Crystal has been a registered trademark since 1999 and offers the most important cuts in clear crystal.