LED lights have become a new way to illuminate your spaces. When electricity passes through the semiconductors it creates a light, which also lets off heat. While only a small amount of heat needs to be released it still needs to be released which doesn’t happen in an enclosed fixture.
At LED One, we are experts on LED lighting and light fixtures, we also have solutions for retrofitting old light fixtures to allow for usage with the new bulbs. While nothing will likely go wrong with the fixture, putting these bulbs in enclosed fixtures will cause premature dimming and burn out.
The Difference Between LED and Incandescent Bulbs
The two main types of bulbs are LED and incandescent. They differ in how they create light and how efficient they are:
1. LED
A light-emitting diode (LEDs) is a type of light that illuminates the surrounding area by sending electricity through a semiconductor. The amount of heat that the semiconductor gives off is minimal and they are significantly brighter with drastically less energy to light up.
They will burn brighter and longer than their predecessors. They use approximately 75% less energy and produce 25 times longer. They brighten up areas that are hard to illuminate with ease, such as under a kitchen cabinet.
2. Incandescent Bulb
They produce light by passing current passing through a metal wire, usually tungsten, resulting in a duller glow and more heat. They usually only last eight thousand to twelve thousand hours.
These bulbs cost a lot more energy, and therefore more money, to operate. Furthermore, they give off more heat as well, costing you more to keep your space cool too.
Ways to Brighten Up Your Area
There are several ways to use these efficient lights, not just as bulbs in a lamp. You can use ceiling panels to lighten up a room while still keeping it cool.
- This is a great solution for your office fixtures.
- To light up a large space or for a more industrial look we have some fantastic lighting solutions.
Can You Use an LED Bulb in an Enclosed Fixture?
These LEDs are a fantastic, budget-friendly, solution to your lighting needs. They do have a downfall; they cannot be in enclosed fixtures.
Enclosed fixtures are any fixtures that have a tight seal. While these bulbs produce less heat than their counterparts, they do still produce heat and need to be able to have it escape. This can cause an early shorter life span, early dimming or even safety issues.
What’s The Danger?
While extremely unlikely it is possible to explode. They will more likely become less efficient and their life expectancy will be drastically reduced.
What If I Have a Fixture Already?
There are a few options for you, replacement, retrofit, or specialized light bulbs. There are many ways to do this without breaking the bank. Above is a link to ceiling wall panels as an option. Another way is through a retrofit kit.
There are very specialized bulbs that can be used in small spaces, you just need to make sure you get those specific ones. If not they will dim sooner and burn out faster.
LED Is a Long Term Solution For Cutting Energy Costs
The light they produce is brighter, while using less electricity, create less heat, and last longer. They are a great long term solution for reducing your electric bill.
They really only have one shortfall and that is they are not able to be contained in enclosed fixtures. To use pre-existing fixtures you will need to either use specialized bulbs, retrofitting kits or replace the fixture altogether.
Contact us Today
If you have any questions about the bulbs, get in touch with the team at LED One today. We’ll be happy to answer you and give you the information you need to make a good purchase. We look forward to working with you!