Which one is better? Comparison of LED and energy-saving lamps

Since 2009, the sale of light bulbs has been banned. The main reason is the low energy efficiency and thus the lack of environmental protection. Energy-saving lamps and LEDs have successfully established themselves as substitutes. These lamps differ not only in terms of technology but also in terms of service life and energy efficiency.

Energy-saving lamp technology

The lamp body of the energy-saving lamp is composed of glass or ceramic tubes. The glass bulb contains a gas mixture and two electrodes, between which a gas discharge occurs. Once the current is turned on, the electrode will flow from the cathode to the anode. In the gas mixture, the electrode hits mercury atoms and the energy is released in the form of ultraviolet rays. Tubes are usually coated with fluorescent materials, once the ultraviolet rays hit its surface, they will convert the ultraviolet rays into visible, pleasant white light.

LED light technology

LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology is not based on a gas discharge process. Rather, it is about electroluminescence. By applying a voltage, electromagnetic radiation is emitted into the environment. This radiation then reaches us in the form of light. The wire is not heated before it emits light, just like a light bulb. This is why LED lights that are turned on are far less hot than light bulbs or neon tubes.

Cost comparison of energy-saving lamps and LED

When the light bulb ban was implemented in 2009, many people complained about the relatively high prices of energy-saving lamps and LEDs. LED lamps are usually a bit more expensive than energy-saving lamps. But the significantly reduced power consumption makes this a reality. In this way, electricity bills can be saved for a long time. In addition, the longer the bulb burns, the greater the value of the LED.

Energy balance comparison between energy-saving lamps and LED

The respective energy balance is closely related to cost. Compared with incandescent bulbs, energy-saving lamps can save about 80% of energy. When using LEDs, you can even reduce battery power by 90%.

To find the right wattage, you must switch from energy-saving lamps to ordinary light bulbs. To do this, divide the wattage of the old bulb by four to five. For example, if you used a 100-watt bulb to illuminate a room, a 20-25-watt energy-saving lamp would be sufficient.

Comparison of the service life of energy-saving lamps and LEDs

LED lights are the clear leader in terms of service life. They can light up for approximately 15,000 to 50,000 working hours before they need to be replaced. It runs for three hours a day, which is equivalent to approximately 14 to 45 years. Indeed, the service life of energy-saving lamps is much longer than that of incandescent lamps, which usually only last for one year. However, the service life of 8000 to 10000 hours cannot keep up with LED lights.

Brightness comparison between energy-saving lamps and LED

Brightness or light output is measured in lumens per watt. This is calculated based on the luminous flux emitted by the lamp and its output (watts). The more luminous flux produced per output, the higher its luminous efficiency.

A light bulb produces 2500 to 3000 lumens and output power of 200 watts. An energy-saving lamp has reached 2600 lumens at 50 watts. In this regard, LED is also an absolute leader, with a light output of 50 watts and 3600 to 4000 lumens.

In addition, energy-saving lamps need a longer time to reach the maximum brightness after being turned on.

Only the designated LED dimmer can be used for the dimming of LED lights. Although halogen lamps and incandescent lamps use alternating current to work, LEDs need them for direct current. This is why an integrated ballast must be installed to convert electrical energy. If these ballasts are not available, the lights cannot be dimmed.

Substances harmful to health

Energy-saving lamps are controversial mainly because of their mercury content. If the light is broken, it will become very dangerous. The mercury content in the air briefly exceeded the allowable guideline value for indoor spaces by 20 times. In this case, it is important to allow the room to ventilate for about 15 minutes and wear gloves to carefully collect all parts. Do not use a vacuum cleaner, otherwise, the exhaust air will spread the mercury into the air. The whole thing is treated as hazardous waste. Modern models usually only contain mercury in solid form and have a fragment protection function, so the risk of poisoning is minimized.

It’s good to know that even light bulbs that are intact cannot be disposed of with ordinary household waste. In LED lights, electricity is used to light up semiconductor crystals. They do not contain mercury, and if damaged, they can simply be disposed of with ordinary household waste.

Conclusion: Energy-saving lamps or LED lamps?

According to the listed standards, LED lights have obvious advantages. The purchase cost is higher than energy-saving lamps, but because they consume less energy, they can save costs in the long run. Modern, high-quality models also come in a variety of colors, so they can also produce comfortable light in the living room.