Switching from Halogen to LED: When is Your System Too Old?
Did you know LED bulbs use around 25%-80% less energy than traditional light bulbs?
It’s no wonder that more people are changing from traditional lights to LED lights in their San Diego homes and for their landscaping.
Have you been thinking about switching from halogen to LED for your landscaping, but your system is too old?
Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Why Make the Switch?
There are quite a few reasons that you might be looking to convert your outdoor lighting from halogen to LED. You could be trying to cut down on routine maintenance, save on electric, or expand your system. There are many benefits to upgrading your system at your San Diego home.
Like with most new technology, LED lights have finally become available for public use. If your outdoor lighting system was installed years ago, it might be too old or even obsolete when it’s compared to today’s light standards. Halogen bulbs were used for all landscaping before, because they were reliable and cost-effective for the consumer.
Was Your System Installed Before LED’s Were Popular?
If your landscaping was done before LED became popular your current fixtures might not be compatible with LED bulbs. You might have to replace the entire fixture if you’re looking to change to LED technology. This all depends on how old your system is. The other components don’t usually have to be changed, only the fixture.
The main thing here is that you want to make sure that the new bulb fits into the old fixture. If the bulb doesn’t fit in your older fixture, and rainwater gets into the socket, the LED bulb will stop working. Most LED bulb manufacturers don’t warranty bulbs for water damage.
If your fixture is not right for the new bulbs you are installing, it’s smart to upgrade your fixtures so that you don’t find yourself paying more later on.
Bulb Fitting
The first thing you want to check is what kind of base you currently have. The base, or the fitting, is the part of the bulb that fits into the holder. Some bulbs have two pins below them while other bulbs have a screw thread.
A professional in lighting and LED is the best person to advise you on how to replace based on the type of bulb base or fitting you currently have.
Color Temperature
You want to compare the different hues of white light and choose what you prefer.
LED technology is able to handle all hues of white light from warm to cool light. Traditional incandescent and halogen bulbs only emit warm white light.
To Dim or Not to Dim?
If you want your LED lights to dim, depending on what you’re doing at the moment, then you want to check the options you have. Light intensity can be changed and adjusted based on the application you’re using them in. The question here is do you want this feature or not?
If you do, then you will need to review if your current system has the capability of doing it. Keep in mind if you choose this option it will cost a little more. Something else to keep in mind is that since LED lights use little energy, you might need an electrician to change your dimmer switches.
Benefits
In recent years, LED has become the industry standard because of its benefits, these include:
- Longer life span
- Utility bill saver
- Durable bulbs
- Better quality
- Modern look
- Handle all hues of white light
- Color options
- Versatility
Utility Bill Saver
As mentioned earlier, LED bulbs can use up to 80% less energy than traditional halogen bulbs. Using less energy equals lower utility bills. LED bulbs for your landscape will not only look great, but they will save you money every month when your electric bill arrives.
Durable Bulbs
Let’s expand a bit on how much things will change by switching to LED, with bulbs that last longer, and don’t burn out like traditional light bulbs. The cost of replacing bulbs is cut down, as is the maintenance. You might go from replacing every year to every decade with quality LED light bulbs.
Handle All Hues of White Light
If you prefer the yellow to amber color from traditional halogen bulbs, LED lights can handle this color, too. They’re known for their bright white light, but because they can handle of hues of white light, it’s also capable of giving you the warmer light output.
Cost
Most people are afraid of the upfront costs of changing to an LED light system. While LED is more expensive than a traditional halogen bulb, if you’re talking about the long term, you will save money, as halogen bulbs have to be replaced annually.
Replacing bulbs every year adds up quickly vs LED bulbs that can last you for years. Landscape requires multiple bulbs, so replacing with LED will pay itself off over time without the need of replacing multiple bulbs annually.
Save Some Time
If you have an older system in and around your San Diego home, and want to switch from halogen to LED, you don’t have to feel overwhelmed. Instead, consider hiring a professional. All landscapes can be converted to LED, but you might need a designer to evaluate your current system and give you the perfect personalized plan for your light conversion.
You can create the perfect LED upgrade in your San Diego home if you contact us for a free consultation.