The Differences Between Fluorescent and LED Lights

Fluorescent lights are a large part of the lighting family. The standard fluorescent light was developed in the 1930’s for commercial use. There are three key types of fluorescents; cold cathode, hot cathode and electroluminescent.

Advantages of Fluorescent Lights:

• Energy efficient.
• Affordable production costs – fluorescent lights are 66% cheaper than traditional lighting and provides the exact amount of brightness.
• Long life of tubes – The average bulb or tube has the lifespan of six times longer than a traditional light. Fluorescent lights tend to burn less after being used continuously.
• Variety of colours.
• Diffused light.

What are the differences between a fluorescent light and an LED? Here’s what:

• The main difference between a fluorescent and an LED is their energy usage and lifespan. Fluorescent lights last around 10, 000 hours before it is required to be replaced. LED lights, on the other hand, lasts up to 60, 000 hours. This means that one would have to replace a fluorescent light about 6 times to equal the lifespan of an LED.
• LED lights are light emitting diodes, which may be found either as a single diode such as a flash light or as a cluster of diodes such as a light bulb. Fluorescent lights come in two primary types: CFL (compact fluorescent lighting) and tube lighting. These lights can range in sizes.
• When it comes to energy efficiency, LED lights are around 5 times more efficient than fluorescent lights. This is because LED’s use around half the wattage of fluorescents.
• LED lights are directional lights, which means that they focus on a specific area where the bulb is pointed. Fluorescent lights are ideal for illuminating rooms, with full sized tubes that can be used for large rooms such as warehousing, where LED lights will not be reliable.
• LED and fluorescent lights are both energy efficient when compared to traditional lights. LED lights cost more than fluorescents, but, fluorescent lights contain small amounts of mercury.

Nordland Lighting are lighting specialists and supply a wide range of lights including fluorescent lights, LED’s, bulkheads and more! Contact us today for more information.