Can you save on electricity by using LED bulbs?

Disadvantages and disadvantages of LEDs, as well as lamps assembled on them

The main and main drawback is the warranty. The guarantee is not only for LEDs, but for light sources assembled on their basis. Each lamp manufacturer, in pursuit of its buyer, offers a guarantee for the uninterrupted operation of its products for 3-5 years. Here it is worth considering ... Why so few? After all, the service life of the diodes themselves is an order of magnitude higher !!! The answer is simple. Any lamp is not only LEDs. This is a complex device that contains numerous electronic components. It is they who fail before the diodes. So, if the warranty of your lamp is 3 years. and it broke after three years and one day, then with a high probability you will be left without a lamp and without money.And that means a "fat plus" in the form of energy savings you won't get. Average payback time for a good light source at least 5 years. It's not pleasant, but tolerable. Especially if you give preference not to cheap fakes, but to high-quality lamps from famous manufacturers.

The first and most important drawback is pulsation

1The most annoying problem with LED lamps is flickering. High-frequency flickering, pulsation. This is the scourge of today's lamps. A more detailed description of this problem will be discussed in one of the following articles.

In the meantime, let's take into account that ripple is the main drawback of LED lamps. Often Chinese lamps suffer from it, in which capacitors are used instead of drivers.

And if you take into account the advantages and disadvantages of LEDs (any), then this criterion often plays a role in refusing to buy LEDs, since many do not know how to deal with pulsation, flickering of LED lamps and diodes directly.

The high price of chips

2The cost of LEDs and lamps. This characteristic has remained and will be relevant for Russian buyers for a long time. For high-quality and expensive LEDs from eminent Nichia, Philips, Osram, the prices are simply “ahovskiye”. But you want cheap and beautiful))) But in this aspect, this is not suitable. In LED lighting, cheap is never good. Not that market.

I spent a lot of time assembling various LED derivatives. And as expected, I bought a large number of chips on the well-known Aliexpress site. Everything seemed to suit. Cheap and cheerful. But at that moment I was young and green in LED lighting. Somehow I got into herb diodes from Nichia ... There was no limit to surprise.With a similar power of light, I received almost three times more than Chinese ones. This prompted me to mentally reflect on the advisability of buying Chinese components. But I didn’t have enough for a long time) I had to look for the “golden mean” again on Ali. Only after a long painful search did I manage to find suppliers who sell fairly high-quality diodes for quite a tolerable price. Not much worse than the famous ones. If you are interested, write, I will give a link. Not cheap. But qualitatively. Small difference. Advantages and disadvantages in such LEDs will suit everyone.

Driver

3Earlier, I already announced that all diode lamps have a driver in their composition. The higher the quality of the power supply, the more expensive the final cost of the product will be ... I will also attribute this to the minuses and disadvantages of LEDs. I would like it to be cheaper.

Dimming, beam angle and color temperature

4Dimming. It can also be attributed to the cost. Any LED lamps do not work with dimmers from incandescent lamps. And this means you need to buy a new dimmer, and the lamp itself, which supports dimming, is also not cheap. Again minus karma.

5Small angle of dispersion. Diodes emit light in a narrow direction. In order to get more or less normal light, you have to use secondary optics. Lamps without lenses and collimators look less than respectable. Again costs ... Again an increase in cost (.

6. LED bulbs are available in various color temperatures. For an apartment, you can select from 3500 to 7000K. Without a clear understanding, it is not possible to choose a lamp of the desired glow for an inexperienced buyer. And most manufacturers do not always correctly indicate the temperature.

7. And one more interesting observation.Buying in two stores for an incandescent lamp, we get a “flask” identical in light. In the case of LEDs and LED lamps, this will not work. In nature, there are no identical diode lamps. Therefore, two lamps bought in different stores of the same glow and power will most likely shine differently. Of course, if it happens that the lamps are assembled on diodes of the same brand and released at the same time, then the distortion will be minimal. But then again, this is from the realm of fantasy. Who does not believe. Can try. ) As you know, smart learns from the mistakes of others. I didn’t have examples, I checked))) The light show is still something!)

Additional elements

Standard frames have a length of 1, 2, 3 and 4 m. Depending on the design of the room, the guide profiles can be shortened (cut to the desired size with a simple hacksaw), connected into different geometric shapes (squares, rectangles, rhombuses) using connectors ( connections). Connectors are of several types:

1. In-line connectors - when increasing the length (add 35 cm to a 4 m busbar to get a 435 cm busbar).
2. Corner joints - when combining the structure at an angle of 90⁰.
3. T-shaped - collection of 3 busbars.
4. X-shaped connector - combining 4 sections into one system.
5. Flexible connections - connections of structures at different heights.

Plugs are placed along the edges of the structure to protect against electric shock, as an element of decor.

How are they attached

There are several ways to attach frames:

• Suspended - assembled below (on the floor), additionally you need suspensions (cable) from 1 to 5 m, clamps, mounting brackets, a decorative cap.The distance between the cables is not more than 1 m, for a uniform load. For high ceilings.
• Consignment note - the easiest way, the rail is attached to the ceiling or wall with self-tapping screws, screws every 20 cm. Be sure to calculate the permissible load (1 m busbar - 5 lamps). For low ceilings.
• built-in - it is worth planning in advance, when installing the ceiling, walls, stretch ceilings.

With a significant weight of the structure, additionally, amplifiers of internal joints are used.

Which firm is better?

The best manufacturers of quality LED light sources:

1. Nichia is a Japanese firm specializing in the development of diodes and accessories. It is one of the oldest in its industry. It has a reputation as a manufacturer of extra-class goods and is considered a leader in the production of ultra-bright devices.
2. Osram is a German brand founded over a hundred years ago. Associated with another well-known company - Siemens, and owns almost fifty industries around the world.
3. Cree is an American company that originally made chips that were used to make mobile phones and car dashboards. Today, a well-established company with a full cycle produces LEDs for various purposes.
4. Philips is a well-known corporation with factories in 60 countries, which is famous for its investments in innovative developments. It has an annual turnover of millions of euros and high growth rates in production volumes.

In addition to the above, popular models of diode lighting devices are produced by Russian brands - ERA, Gauss, Navigator, Ecola, as well as Chinese companies - ASD and VOLPE.

Overview of the best manufacturers of LED lamps

A fairly large number of manufacturers are engaged in the production of LED products. The only question is how high quality products they produce. To purchase a solid and durable LED lamp, you should familiarize yourself with the leading manufacturers of LED lamps that accompany their product with a long-term warranty.

LED lamp which company is better buy? The ranking of leading manufacturers includes:

Philips is at the forefront of innovative, energy-efficient lighting products. The company's products are of high quality, durability and compliance with the declared technical characteristics. The prices for the products of this brand are quite high;

Philips is a leader in LED lighting products

• German company Osram is a global manufacturer of high-tech street, office and household lighting. Products of this company are economical, with a long service life and compliance with all technical requirements. The high cost of LED lamps quickly pays off;
• trade mark Gauss - the manufacturer of TPK "Varton" produces products using new technologies. The devices produced by the company are environmentally friendly, have an original design and a long service life. All products are certified and pass quality control. Products are recognized as the best in terms of "price - quality" ratio;
• ASD is a well-known Russian manufacturer of lighting equipment. It specializes in the production of LED products: panels, lamps, ribbons, spotlights, etc. The devices work perfectly both in domestic use and in the production sector;

Leading led lamp manufacturers accompany their products with a long-term guarantee

Device LED lamp Jazzway

Feron - the company's assortment includes more than 4000 items, including light sources, festive lighting, lamps, accessories. All products are manufactured using nanotechnology and are distinguished by high-precision assembly.

Getting acquainted with the data of the comparison tables of LED lamps and incandescent lamps, we can conclude that the conversion of electrical energy into light in LED sources occurs without loss and with minimal consumption. Their safety and environmental friendliness make replacing old light sources with LED lighting rational and harmless.

The best budget LED lamps

Inexpensive, but high-quality entry-level models are reliable and have a good service life.

IEK LLE-230-40

4.9

★★★★★
editorial score

95%
buyers recommend this product

The LED lamp with a large bulb housing illuminates the room with cold, neutral light with a color temperature of 4000 K. The luminous flux of 2700 lm is evenly distributed in all directions through a matte surface. The model is equipped with an E27 base for standard sockets of various types of lamps.

With a power consumption of 30 W, the illumination is equivalent to a 200 W incandescent lamp. Bright light allows you to see every detail even in a dark garage, warehouse or basement. The lamp works at a voltage of 230 V and does not overheat. Manufacturer's declared service life is about 30,000 hours.

Pros:

• Bright lighting.
• White neutral light.
• Durability.
• Minimal heating during operation.
• Small power consumption.

Minuses:

Bright light can tire your eyes when used for a long time.

A powerful LED lamp will be an economical and safe alternative to halogens. The model is best suited for creating maximum illumination in the territory of retail premises, warehouses, utility rooms or outdoor areas.

ERA B0027925

4.8

★★★★★
editorial score

92%
buyers recommend this product

An energy-saving filament lamp in the form of a candle is installed in a luminaire with an E14 base. At power consumption energy 5 W lamp creates luminous flux 490 lm with temperature 2700 K colors - like a conventional 40 W lamp. Yes, and filamentary LEDs look very similar to the usual incandescent filament, but much more economical.

"Candle" has a diameter of 37 and a height of 100 mm. Matte translucent surface evenly scatters light in all directions. The model is durable - about 30,000 hours, as well as resistant to voltage drops from 170 to 265 V.

Pros:

• Low level of power consumption.
• Filament LEDs.
• Resistant to voltage drops.
• Long service life.

Minuses:

Not the highest brightness.

The lamp emits a pleasant warm light and does not tire your eyesight. The model is suitable for most night lamps and lampshades. The low power consumption and low operating temperature of the bulb ensure safe operation in decorative lighting fixtures.

REV 32262 7

4.8

★★★★★
editorial score

90%
buyers recommend this product

Economical LED lamp in the form of a ball with a diameter of 45 mm looks very similar to a conventional one and is approximately comparable in size. The model can be used in all luminaires for E27 base.

Warm light with color temperature 2700 K is dissipated through a frosted bulb. A 5W output is equivalent to a 40W incandescent bulb. The light bulb works smoothly at temperatures from -40 to +40°C, which allows it to be used outdoors in cases where lighting power is not very important.

Weak heating increases safety at work application of the model in night lamps and under plastic lampshades. The service life specified by the manufacturer is about 30,000 hours.

Pros:

• Compactness.
• Nice warm glow.
• Low temperature resistant.
• Sturdy round flask.

Minuses:

Gives weak light.

An inexpensive model with a warm and non-irritating glow is convenient for domestic use and allows you to create comfortable lighting near a coffee table or bed.

Osram LED Star 550lm, GX53

4.8

★★★★★
editorial score

89%
buyers recommend this product

The LED lamp in the form of a tablet disk with a diameter of 75 mm is used in ceiling lamps and directional light fixtures. It puts out 7W of power, which is equivalent to a 50-60W incandescent light bulb. The glow angle is 110°.

The model is designed to illuminate the space with warm white light. The luminous flux reaches 550 lm. The lamp is connected to the GX53 luminaire connector using two special pins.

The operating temperature of the model does not exceed +65 °C. This allows you to safely use the lighting fixture. The light bulb itself can work up to 15,000 hours.

Pros:

• Easy to install and replace.
• directional light.
• Weak heating.
• Profitability.

Minuses:

Due to its shape, the lamp does not fit all fixtures.

This model has a fairly wide scope, despite the non-standard shape.It is suitable for lighting retail outlets, places of recreation and entertainment, as well as a decorative element in the apartment.

Flaws

LED lamps have one significant disadvantage, which slows down their widespread distribution and results in a significant disadvantage. This is a high cost. In low-income countries, the population does not have the funds to buy LED lamps for the home, and the state refuses to invest in the modernization of street and industrial lighting, continuing to transform megawatts of energy into heat. Today, many people are unwilling to shell out money for a modern light bulb and wait several years for it to pay off and benefit from energy savings.

There is another explanation for this fact - the poor quality of cheap Chinese products that undermine the reputation of LED lamps. The markets of European countries are flooded with Chinese light bulbs, in which either the technical characteristics are overestimated, or instead of a high-quality driver, a conventional diode rectifier is mounted. As a result, the reliability of the product is significantly reduced.

The disadvantages include the fact that the number of LED products manufactured in Russia is negligible compared to similar goods that come from China. In addition, the price of domestic LED lamps is higher, which repels many buyers.

Among the disadvantages of LED lamps, which are inherent in all types of products, it is worth highlighting the following:

• degradation of the crystal, as a result of which it gradually, from year to year, loses its brightness;
• neutral and cold white light inhibits the release of the hormone melatonin, which is responsible for the regulation of sleep;
• the use of a step-down converter with a current stabilization function, which leads to an increase in the cost of the product.

The disadvantages that are usually inherent in cheap Chinese products include:

• high ripple factor;
• not comfortable color temperature;
• poor color characteristics;
• inconsistency of the luminous flux and the equivalent of an incandescent lamp.

Despite their inherent disadvantages, solid-state light sources are confidently making their way into the future. Therefore, to continue to hesitate with the purchase is not a sound decision. You just need to take a closer look at the current possibilities of LED lamps, which can be found on the pages of our magazine.

Convenience and safety of use

Everyone knows that in fluorescent lamps the tubes are filled with a phosphor, which begins to glow under certain conditions. It takes some time to create these conditions. Sometimes it is almost imperceptible, and sometimes the delay after switching on can be a second or even a little more. This is not the most pleasant phenomenon that you have to put up with. LED lamps light up immediately after the voltage is applied. In this they are definitely better.

Today, more and more people are trying to make lighting with the ability to change the intensity of light. This is achieved either by a complex circuit with a large number of switches, or by installing a dimmer - a small device that allows you to smoothly change the level of illumination. But the fact is that not all lamps can work with a dimmer. Energy savers can't. They need a certain level of voltage and its shape, and the dimmer just distorts the shape. But some LED lamps can work with this device. Just look for dimmable ones when choosing LED bulbs.This ability is indicated in the technical specifications. Minus - such light sources with equal characteristics are more expensive.

Table for comparing LED and energy-saving lamps

Another point in favor of LED lamps. Their flask (if any) is made of impact-resistant plastic. Energy-saving fluorescent - made of glass. Moreover, damage to the tube is fatal - the light source stops working. In addition, some (cheap) housekeepers contain mercury vapor, so that a glass tube damaged by a phosphor can cause serious harm to health. This also leads to difficulties with recycling - special enterprises for the processing of such lighting devices are needed.

And the last point regarding ease of use - neither an incandescent nor a fluorescent lamp can be restored after a failure. When damaged, they completely lose their functionality. LED lamps usually consist of a number of crystals located on the body. When one or more crystals fail, the luminous flux decreases, but the light is still emitted, albeit in a smaller amount. In addition, if you wish and the ability to handle a soldering iron, you can replace the burned-out elements, restoring the previous brightness.

So, deciding whether energy-saving or LED lamps are better in terms of ease of use, we see that LED lamps are more practical and safer.

realities

An ill-conceived design is only the first component that affects the lifespan of a light bulb.The second begins to actively manifest itself after the luminaire or lamp falls into operating conditions that are not provided for in the product specification.

The first obstacle is the unstable supply voltage. Frequent dips and power surges negatively affect driver operation. Therefore, you need to choose light bulbs with a wide range of supply voltage.

For example, the Onlight led lamp provides a stable luminous flux, regardless of changes in the network (176-264V).

The second is the absence of natural heat exchange (air convection). This obstacle appears when installing LED lamps in wall and ceiling luminaires of a closed type. Lamps also have weak convection, the open part of which is directed downwards, and the basement has no holes. In particular, the instruction manual for the TM Feron led lamp says: “It is not recommended to use the lighting device in completely enclosed luminaires, as well as in places with no air convection. This will cause the case to overheat and shorten the life of the LEDs.” For example, the photo shows the correct spotlight with holes in the body that provide natural removal of warm air.

The third is operation in an environment with a maximum allowable temperature. Extremely low temperatures can be harmful to driver parts. The electrical parameters of capacitors, transistors and other elements change, reducing the life of the product as a whole. But the increased ambient temperature does more harm, preventing the case from cooling naturally.

For most Chinese light bulbs, the exact values relative humidity are indicated only in the paragraph "Storage, transportation" - no more than 80%. The use of LED lamps at high humidity values ​​will lead to oxidation of the printed conductors, and then to an open or short circuit section of the electrical circuit. In most cases, manufacturers are limited to instructions for use:

• for interior lighting;
• for outdoor lighting, install in luminaires with IP54 and above.

Advantages of LED lighting

Among the main
The advantages of LED lamps are highlighted by the following:

1. Long service life. Ice elements, with proper operation and good quality from the manufacturer, retain their original characteristics for up to 100 thousand hours.
2. High energy efficiency. About 95% of the energy consumed goes to light radiation. For comparison, for a conventional incandescent lamp, this figure is only 5-6%!
3. Saving. An LED lamp with a similar brightness with a 100 W spiral bulb consumes only 10 W. Therefore, the use of such a light source is 10 times more profitable.
4. Resistance to temperature changes and mechanical damage, due to the fact that the product simply does not contain easily destroyed components (thin threads, glass legs, etc.).
5. Low heating factor. This serves as a guarantee of fire safety in the use of household electrical appliances.
6. Environmental Safety. Unlike other energy-saving lamps, LED specimens do not contain mercury vapor, halogens, phosphorus and other toxic substances. Therefore, they can be used without fear in any area - in the kitchen, in the nursery, in the bedroom and disposed of in a standard way.
7. Compactness.One of the main advantages of LED crystals is their small size and, consequently, the possibility of using them in cramped conditions.
8. Wide color palette of light output.
9. The ability to change the main parameters of the glow (brightness, rhythm, color for RGB models), including programming - dimmers and controllers.
10. Good speed and resource indicators. The LED lamp turns on instantly and does not require time to ignite, like some analogues. In addition, it is not subject to wear depending on the number of “on / off” procedures carried out.
11. Focusing. By itself, the LED lamp has a more directional, rather than diffused luminous flux.