The light-emitting diode (LED) is one of today's most energy-efficient and rapidly developing lighting technologies. LEDs last longer, are more durable, and offer better light quality than nearly any other type of lighting available.

How LEDs are Different

LED lighting is very different from other lighting sources such as incandescent bulbs and CFLs. Key differences include the following:

Light source

LEDs are near-monochromatic light sources. They emit various colors (except white) depending on the materials from which they are made.

Direction

Light-emitting diodes emit light in a specific direction, much like a flashlight, reducing the need for reflectors and diffusers that can trap light. This makes them ideal for applications such as recessed down lights and task lighting. With other types of lighting, the light must be reflected to the desired direction and more than half of the light may never leave the fixture.

Heat

LEDs emit almost no heat. In comparison, incandescent bulbs release 90% of their energy as heat and CFLs release about 80% of their energy as heat.

Dimmable

LEDs , like incandescent, can be dimmed. CFLs however cannot be dimmed.