DIY Security Systems
LED stands for light-emitting diode, and this type of light is one of the most popular, affordable, and longest-lasting lights available. But how long do LED security lights last? Where are they typically used, and are they a better alternative compared to incandescent bulbs? Here is a short guide on LED security lights.
How Is the Life Expectancy of LED Lights Measured?
When you buy an LED light bulb, one of the first things that you would look at is the life span of the bulb. How long do LED security lights last? Typically, LED bulb manufacturers will claim that their products will last anywhere between 10,000 to 50,000 hours. However, how do these manufacturers measure these hours so that they can make these claims?
Compared to incandescent bulbs, which stops working completely, the brightness of LED light bulbs will fade over time. Thus, the lifespan of LED bulbs is calculated by getting the point in time when the luminosity put out by the bulb only reaches 70% of the initial output. In the industry, this measurement is known as the B50-L70, which means that 50% of LED bulbs will only put out that aforementioned 70% luminosity.
Can I Use LED Lights in Enclosed Fixtures?
If you’re planning to use LED security lights in enclosed fixtures, check whether that particular bulb is rated for those conditions. Enclosed fixtures are airtight enclosures that are closed on the sides and the rear, with an opening in the front. If you use an LED light not rated for enclosed fixtures, the wiring inside the bulb will be subjected to intense heat, which can cause the bulb to burn out quickly.
What Are the Advantages of Switching to LED?
Here are some of the advantages that you can enjoy when you switch to using LEDs for your security lights:
Higher Energy Efficiency
LED lights use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and 25-35% less energy compared to fluorescent bulbs.
Extremely Long Lifespan
How long do LED security lights last? LED lights can last up to 50,000 hours, while incandescent bulbs only last around 1,000 hours, and fluorescent bulbs will last around 7,000 to 10,000 hours.
Does Not Produce Heat
Unlike incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, LED lights do not get hot to the touch making it safe to use even around small children or pets.
Durable and Strong
LED lights are resistant to vibration and shock.
Can Operate Even in Extreme Environments
LED lights can be used in extremely hot or cold environments without compromising the brightness of the bulb.
Cheap vs. Expensive LEDs: Is It Worth the Price?
LED bulbs come in a wide range of prices. You can get a LED bulb for as cheaply as $10, but the price tag can go up to $50! Is there a difference between a $50 LED versus a $10 LED?
In a word, yes. The price of an LED bulb will depend on the raw materials, the quality of manufacturing, and the name of the manufacturer. This is why you’ll generally see bulbs made by well-known brands are more expensive compared to generic LED bulbs.
Whenever possible, you should buy your LED bulbs from manufacturers or retailers that are known for selling quality products. Remember, LED security bulbs are used for safeguarding your home and property, and you don’t want to gamble with your safety and comfort. You want a lightbulb that has quality components, that’s built to last, and will last as long as indicated on the package.
4 Reasons Why Your LED is Failing Early
The answer to the question, “How long do LED security lights last?” may still depend on the proper usage. If you notice that your LED security light is not lasting as long as indicated on the package, here are four possible reasons:
The Voltage Is Too High
LED lights can only handle a certain range of voltage. If your home’s power supply regularly fluctuates beyond this range, it can cause the materials inside the LED bulb to deteriorate more quickly.
If you notice that LED bulbs in your home burn out more quickly, you should have your wiring or electrical connection checked by an electrician. You can also contact your electrical provider to determine if there is an issue with your power supply.
Poor Connections
Bad connections between your LED lightbulb and the socket can also cause the voltage to enter the bulb to fluctuate. The bulb might be screwed in too loosely or too tightly, or there might be a problem with the socket itself.
If the bulb connection is the problem, you can either tighten or loosen the bulb and connect it properly. However, if the problem is with the socket, you need to get a licensed electrician to fix it.
Overheating
When LED lightbulbs overheat, it is not like incandescent bulbs: the bulb itself does not overheat, but the internal components are taking the brunt of the excess heat. You might not even notice that your bulb is overheating before it’s too late.
To prevent overheating, make sure that your LED bulb is the proper size for your fixture.
Bad Batch
Since LED bulbs are mass-manufactured, there’s always a chance that you got a “lemon” lightbulb that was not caught during the company’s quality check. There is also a chance that the lightbulb was damaged at some point during transit, storage, or even while at the store.
You can get a replacement from the manufacturer or the retail store if you have a damaged lightbulb.
Conclusion
So, how long do LED security lights last? It will depend on several factors, such as the frequency of use, the quality of the lightbulb, and whether you are using the lightbulb with the correct fixture. In general, you’ll be able to get the specified amount of time that you can find on the LED lightbulb label if you use the bulb properly. Find out more about LED Security Lights.