Light-Bulb Wars: LED vs CFL

In 2018 we already know that LED can save energy when you are using a Fluorescent Bulb. And we know that CFLs and LEDs offer a more efficient, longer-lasting lighting option. But when come to a choice between the two, LED vs CFL, then which one comes out on top? In this article, we will share some pros and cons for both Fluorescent light and LED to you for choosing the best one. But first, I want to answer this common question…

Which Bulb is Better?

Just consider your car headlights. The best bulb relies on your intended use. But you can consult with someone who already experienced both of these.

LED Bulbs Pros and Cons: Here are some major pros and cons for LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs,

Pros of LED Bulbs:

1. First of all, the LED is more efficient. LEDs use about 50% less energy than CFLs bulbs.
2. Long-lasting, with 25 times longer lifespan than an incandescent bulb.
3. LED bulbs are hardy, and don’t break as easily as CFLs.
4. Generally, LEDs are available in a wide temperature range, unlike CFLs bulbs
5. LED does not give off heat as a byproduct.
6. LED bulbs are available in a broad range of color tones that allowing customers to achieve the perfect lighting look or design from task lighting to art display.
7. LED bulbs can be dimmed easily than a CFL bulb.
8. Generally CFLs, LED bulbs work well in colder temperatures and for this reason, it commonly used in commercial refrigerators or freezers.

Related: 8 Easy Way to Reduce Electricity Bill

Cons of LED Bulbs:

1. LED is more expensive, though their longer lifespan offsets the higher initial up-front cost.
2. It can worsen symptoms of light sensitivity or photophobia. Especially when light bulbs in the blue-white color spectrum are chosen.
3. It contains heavy metals that offsets the ‘green’ aspect of the bulbs.

Ideal Applications of LED Bulbs:

LED Bulbs are used for an extended period of time and those that see repeated use, like in kitchens, baths, living or family rooms, outdoor or porch lighting. Place where hard to access a bulb, like on cathedral ceiling and in bug-ridden outdoor light. LED also use for holiday lighting that allowing you to attach multiple strings of lights together without any breaker tripping consequences.

CFL Bulbs Pros and Cons: Here are some major pros and cons for CFL bulbs,

Pros of CFL Bulbs:

1. It is less expensive than LED Bulbs.
2. CFL bulbs use 40% less energy than incandescents and about 10% more than LED bulbs.
3. Its lifespan is 10 times longer than an incandescent bulb.
4. It can be better for those with light sensitivity or photophobia, as the temperature of CFL bulbs is warmer than white-blue toned LED light.

Cons of CFL Bulbs:

1. Sometimes the color tone of CFLs can wash out by the surrounding environment. Then it can cause eye strain.
2. CFL needs several minutes to warm up. It performs poorly in cold temperatures, taking an extended time to reach full brightness.
3. Generally, CFLs emit ultraviolet radiation as part of the operation.
4. CFLs break or crack more easily than LEDs.
5. Pose a risk of mercury exposure if it breaks. For this reason, CFL bulbs must be carefully and properly disposed of due to mercury content.
6. CFL is not dimmable.

Related: E-Waste – How Can We Get Rid of Old Electronics?

Ideal Applications of CFL Bulbs:

Because of the unique look of CFL bulbs, they are ideally used in canned or recessed lighting. Institutions where cool lighting tones are needed like hospitals and airport terminals, tend to use CFLs and fluorescents.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that widespread adoption of LED lighting by 2025 will reduce electricity demands on the grid for lighting by 62%, eliminating 258-million metric tons of carbon emissions, and reduce the need for adding another 133 power plants, saving the U.S. over $280-billion. And in Europe, Halogen, and CFLs to be banned this year.