Why LED?

LED, which stands for Light Emitting Diode, is a highly efficient and reliable form of lighting. LED light bulbs use 50% of the wattage consumed by fluorescent bulbs and only 25% of the wattage consumed by incandescent bulbs, while still emitting the same amount of light. Their semiconductor-based structure allows LED light bulbs to be much more rugged than traditional light bulbs. Because of advances in technology that have brought down the costs of producing these lights, the popularity of LED lights has grown significantly in recent years. In fact, it is estimated that LEDs will make up 80% of the general illumination market by 2020, and the US Department of Energy has set the goal of using LED lights to reduce electric lighting consumption by 50% by 2025.

LED lights are desirable in landscape design for numerous reasons. Even a small LED light can be bright and LED lights can be made in virtually and shape or size. This flexibility allows for more creative design. LED lights do not emit UV rays, so they do not attract insects. Because they do not get as hot as traditional light bulbs, there is less danger of using LED lights near plants and trees. They also do not contain harmful materials, whereas some fluorescent light bulbs contain mercury which can harm people and the environment should one break.

LED lights are more reliable, efficient, affordable, and last longer than incandescent and fluorescent bulbs. As LED technology continues to advance, and as the applications in which LED lights are used expand, these lights are quickly becoming the standard for lighting commercial spaces, homes, and landscapes.