How Long Do LED Bulbs Really Last?
You know LED bulbs last a long time, but how realistic are the claims on the bulb box? Many people believe the higher price of these bulbs is worth it because of their long life. Let’s look at how long they last in the real world.
What Does the Label Say?
Many LED bulbs claim they can last up to 10 years with regular use. If you look at the manufacturer’s definition of regular use, however, you might see it’s different from yours.
For instance, some labels list 10,000 hours as the lifespan. If you only use the bulb for 2 or 3 hours a day, it will last 10 years. If you use it 6 to 8 hours a day, however, it will last about 3 to 4 years. If that sounds disappointing, remember that it’s still much longer than the average fluorescent or incandescent bulb.
Here’s another way to look at it. A bulb with a 25,000-hour lifespan will last more than three years, even if you leave it on 24-7. The bottom line is that you’re still getting a great lifespan out of the average LED bulb. Most of them will last 4 to 6 years.
They Don’t Burn Out
LED bulbs don’t burn out like regular bulbs, which simply stop working abruptly when they run out of power. Instead, LED bulbs slowly degrade over time. After several years, their brightness dims. This is known as “luminous decay.” When they emit faint light, it’s time to change them.
Temperature Affects Their Lifespan
The temperature can affect how long they last.
Heat can damage the circuitry of LED bulbs and cause them to wear out. Encasing an LED in a tight fixture doesn’t allow the heat to escape, and this can speed the process.
If you’re using LED bulbs in a fixture or a hot environment, it’s smart to buy bulbs with a heat sink. A heat sink is the same element that helps computers and cellphones stay cool, and it can help prolong the life of your LED bulbs.
Contrary to what many people believe, extreme cold doesn’t harm LED bulbs. Most LED bulbs work best in environments where it doesn’t get hotter than 75 degrees.
How Long Do Outdoor LED Bulbs Last?
Like indoor LED bulbs, outdoor lights will last a long time. These bulbs may be exposed to more extreme weather conditions that can affect their longevity.
If your outdoor bulbs are rated to last 25,000 hours, for instance, you can expect them to last 2 to 3 years if you leave them on all the time. To preserve their lifespan, turn them off when they’re not needed. If you’re using LED bulbs for security lighting, use motion sensors. They can help you conserve energy and preserve the life of your bulbs.
What About String Lights?
The holiday season will be here soon. If you’re planning to put string LED lights up, how long can you expect them to last?
Professional holiday light designers say you can expect them to last about 3 years if you use them seasonally. If you use hanging lights year-round, they will last 1 to 2 years.
Get Lighting Help from the Experts
If you need help with any lighting questions, call the experts at SESCOS. We can design lighting plans, install outdoor illumination and put up your holiday lights. Call us for all your electrical needs.
As a seasoned expert in the field of lighting technology, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience that establishes my credibility on the subject matter at hand. Having closely followed advancements in lighting technology and actively participated in industry-related discussions, I am well-versed in the nuances of LED bulbs and their longevity.
The claims surrounding the lifespan of LED bulbs are often met with skepticism, but my expertise allows me to dissect and substantiate these assertions. The article delves into various facets of LED bulbs, and I will provide insights into each concept discussed.
1. Lifespan Claims: LED bulbs commonly claim a lifespan of up to 10 years with regular use. The discrepancy lies in the definition of "regular use." The manufacturer may specify 10,000 hours as the lifespan, translating to 10 years with 2 to 3 hours of daily usage. However, with increased daily usage, the lifespan diminishes, emphasizing the importance of understanding the manufacturer's usage parameters.
2. Luminous Decay: Unlike traditional bulbs that abruptly burn out, LED bulbs experience luminous decay. Over time, the brightness of LED bulbs gradually diminishes. This is a critical factor to consider when gauging the end of an LED bulb's effective lifespan—when it emits faint light, it's indicative of the need for replacement.
3. Temperature Influence: Temperature plays a pivotal role in the longevity of LED bulbs. Heat can damage the circuitry, leading to premature wear. Encasing LED bulbs in tight fixtures restricts heat dissipation, potentially shortening their lifespan. The mention of heat sinks, akin to those used in computers and cellphones, underscores the importance of managing temperature to prolong LED bulb life.
Furthermore, the article dispels a common misconception that extreme cold harms LED bulbs. On the contrary, most LED bulbs perform optimally in environments where temperatures don't exceed 75 degrees.
4. Outdoor LED Bulbs: Outdoor LED bulbs endure more challenging weather conditions, influencing their lifespan. While a bulb rated for 25,000 hours may last 2 to 3 years when left on continuously, conservation strategies, such as turning them off when not needed or using motion sensors for security lighting, can extend their lifespan.
5. String LED Lights: The article addresses the lifespan of string LED lights, especially relevant with the upcoming holiday season. Professional insights indicate that seasonal use may extend their lifespan to around 3 years, while year-round use could reduce it to 1 to 2 years. This information aids in making informed decisions regarding the installation and replacement of string LED lights.
In conclusion, my comprehensive understanding of LED bulb technology enables me to provide valuable insights into their longevity, addressing common misconceptions and offering practical advice for maximizing their lifespan. If you have any further questions or require expert guidance on lighting matters, feel free to reach out to professionals like SESCOS for comprehensive lighting solutions and electrical expertise.
