Our craftsmanship adds value. Our people add warmth.

LED Integrated Recessed Lighting

Oct 18, 2019 | Owings Mechanical

LED Decorative Lighting

LED Lighting Energy Efficient & Economical

LED lighting is here to stay.  In 2017, 70% of the general lighting fixtures sold were either LED ready or LED-integrated recessed lighting.  It’s projected that LED ready will win out over LED integrated fixtures by 2022.

What is LED Lighting?

LED stands for light-emitting diode. LED lighting fixtures produce light 90% more efficiently than incandescent light fixtures. How they work is that electrical current passes through a microchip, which illuminates the tiny light sources we call LEDs and the result is visible light.

Why LED Lighting?

LED lighting is not only energy efficient but lasts a long time.  They are commonly rated to last 50,000 hours and with several hours daily use could last for decades compared to their incandescent counterparts which typically last 1000 hours when used for the same amount of time daily.  LEDs use heat sinks to absorb the heat produced by the LED and dissipate it into the surrounding environment. This keeps LEDs from overheating and burning out.  Incandescent bulbs produce light using electricity to heat a metal filament until it becomes “white” hot or is said to incandesce. As a result, incandescent bulbs release 90% of their energy as heat.

LED technology is changing the lighting industry.  It is possible to have a lighting fixture installed and let it be for years and years.  A similar appliance in our home would be the HVAC system that lasts for many years.  The difference is we can maintain and repair an HVAC system whereas an LED fixture will most likely need to be replaced when it finally expires.  This will require a new mindset for homeowners that consider lighting fixtures as permanent installations.

How LED Lighting Affects Design

In regards to design LED integrated recessed lighting and decorative fixtures offer new opportunities.  Halogen lighting fixtures were larger to accommodate the bulky bulbs and tubes, but LED lighting fixtures are more compact which allows for many new styles and smart control capabilities.  Aesthetically pleasing and energy efficiency are good reasons why LED lighting is racing ahead of the Edison era.

LEDs are “directional” light sources, which means they emit light in a specific direction, unlike incandescent and CFL, which emit light and heat in all directions. That means LEDs are able to use light and energy more efficiently in a multitude of applications. However, it also means that sophisticated engineering is needed to produce an LED light bulb that shines light in every direction.

LED strip Lighting in ceiling in family room

Consider replacing your present light bulbs with LED and enjoy longer using time, faster response and energy efficiency which will convert to lower energy costs.  Call Owings Mechanical for an estimate to update your home lighting.

For more information on LED lighting check out this Energy Star post.

LED Lighting Commercial and Residential Ideas