Most consumers have already switched to compact fluorescent light bulbs for energy saving purposes but the LED light emitting diodes offer even more in savings. In the long run "going green" with LEDswill not only help protect the environment but what's in your wallet as well. This non-hazardous chemical free, long lasting and energy efficient alternative is catching on fast as the green wave of the future for general-purpose use in the home.

LEDs Offer Encouraging Rewards

First off, you can virtually liberate your home of the dangers of mercury. Unlike compact fluorescent illumination, the ever-growing popular LEDs contains no poisonous mercury to contaminate your home or the natural environment. Then there is the time saving and purchase factors involved in replacing incandescent and CFLs with LED light bulbs. Several years could pass by before you have to go to the trouble and expense of running out for replacements. An average LED may burn up to 100,000 hours of life span before the need to change it arises. Of course, do not forget about slashing that high electric bill too. Starting at a mere 1.3 watts, the LED uses far less electrical power consumption than any of the previous types, which are produced in comparatively higher watts. Unlike the alternatives, the LED produces very little heat, which improves environmental temperatures within the home. Another positive feature is the cool colors offered. Consumers can select luminous colors that meet their individual needs. Regardless if you want to read by cool white or feel cozy with white-blue illumination, a range of options are available for selecting just the right color of preference.

The Downside of LED has a Bright Side

Like most new and improved products, LEDs do come with a downside. The major one being the initial cost which can score high in comparison with what consumers would normally pay for a more traditional unit. Depending on the watts hour rated life for the bulb and the manufactures years of warranty a single LED should fall in a cost range of $49.99 - $99.99 or more. However, the cost can be offset by the number of years the bulb will burn in comparison to its competitors. In calculating how many times per year a focal fitting has to be replaced the consumer may be surprised at how close in spending they are to the cost of using LEDs instead of incandescent and or compact fluorescent ones plus the extra bonus of saving on electricity consumption. Another complaint has been the low illumination levels produced by LEDs. However, manufactures are producing higher power ones, which can give lumin equivalency of an older 50-60 watt unit. The purchase price for the higher power LEDs is usually under $50.00, has a life span of around 50,000 hours and costs as little as $2.00 per year in energy to use. Directional positioning of the bulb in the area where the most illumination is needed is also suggested. Regardless of the initial investment in LED light bulbs, the consumer can go green, keep it clean and brighten the environmental future.