If remodeling, building a new home, or just updating the look of a room — installing new ENERGY STAR qualified light fixtures is a smart way to save energy and money.
Compare |
 Fluorescent |
 LED Lighting |
| Technology | Proven light source of 20+ years | Emerging technology that holds great promise to revolutionize lighting over the next decade |
| Energy Use | 75% less energy than incandescent fixtures | At least 75% less energy than incandescent fixtures and getting more efficient all the time |
| Cost | Typically more expensive than incandescent fixtures ($) | Typically more expensive than fluorescent fixtures ($$) |
| Lifetime | ≈9 years (Based on 3 hours of use/day) | 22+ years (based on 3 hours of use/day) |
| Warranty | 2-year warranty | 3-year warranty |
| Fixture Types | Available in many decorative styles | Currently available in select fixture types including recessed cans, under cabinet lights, & porch lights |
| Replacement Bulbs | Special "pin-based" bulbs available for replacement | LEDs are part of the fixture and typically not replaceable |
| On/Off Time | Typically less than 1 second to turn on and up to 3 minutes to reach 80% brightness | Instant on |
| Heat Output | Cooler than incandescent | Cooler than fluorescent |
| Recycling | Contain a small amount of mercury and should be recycled | Contain electronic parts and should be recycled (like computers or cell phones) |
