LED Myths
TOP 8 LED MYTHS
1. All LED products are the same
While there are many options, only a few manufacturers produce top quality LED lamps and fixtures. CCG only works with LED manufacturers who:
• Pass a strict set of proven product quality guidelines and our PET system
• Have been approved by United Laboratories (or equivalent)
• Use licensed, patented LED products
And it might surprise you to know that not all LEDs are made overseas—many top-quality LED manufacturers are located right here in the United States.
Choosing the wrong product will compromise the light quality, length of life and durability of your LED installation. Our Proprietary Evaluation Technique (PET) process ensures that your installation includes the best products possible.
2. All LED lights have a bluish tinge
Improved technology means that today’s products are available in a broad variety of colors, ranging from warm to cool tones. Learn more about LED color options from your industry consultant.
3. LEDs are expensive
Although the upfront cost will be higher than a comparable halogen or incandescent light, the return on investment is surprisingly quick. There are a number of key factors to consider beyond the cost of the bulbs:
• Longer life than other current alternatives
• Up to 90% less energy consumption than other light sources
• Significant reduction of maintenance costs because they need to be changed less often
• No ballast costs or replacement labor expenses with our warranties
• Less impact on HVAC systems because they generate less heat
• Available utility rebates and government tax incentives to help reduce the financial burden
This simple illustration based on replacement cost alone shows the clear advantage of LED.
Direct Bulb to Lamp Savings* (product savings only)
Bulb type ———–Product Life—– Cost per bulb—– Cost for 50,000 hours of use—– Savings
Halogen MR-16———-2500 hours————— $5.00————————- $100.00——————————-$0
LED MR-16 —————-50,000 hours———–$45.00————————– $45.00—————————–$55.00
*Before energy and maintenance savings
LEDS can be expensive if the wrong selection is made. And a lot of LEDs on the market today don’t deliver. Although LEDs can produce an exceptional ROI, they can only deliver it if the right solution is implemented. You can count on CCG to help you make the correct decisions.
4. LED is not ready for prime-time
LEDs are now available in a wide variety of colors and lamp options. They are a great choice for a wide variety of both indoor and outdoor applications.
Plus, LEDs:
• Are instant on and dimmable
• Are highly directional so you can control where the light falls with minimal light loss
• Stand up to extreme temperatures
• Fade gradually instead of failing
5. Replacing a fluorescent tube with an LED will void the UL rating on the fixture
CCG’s stringent product selection process ensures that your rating will remain intact. Our recommended LED tube carries UL Subject 8750, which certifies that the tube is safe under reference standards. It also carries UL Standards 1598B-Retrofit, which certifies that the fixture retains its UL rating after disconnecting the ballast and installing the LED tube, if done correctly. Our maintenance experts have been trained to keep your warranties in place.
6. LED light quality is the same as all other light sources
Studies show that the human eye sees LED light differently than other light sources and perceives LED light as being brighter. Therefore, LED lamps produce fewer lumens, use less energy and deliver the same amount of brightness as a similar halogen, but without all the negative traits.
7. If I switch to LED, I’ll have to change my fixtures
Updates in LED lamp technology mean that they’re now available in the same size, shape and output colors of other lighting options, and that you can simply swap out lamps without compromising light quality or color.
8.There are other equally good green lighting options
Although compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) have gotten a lot of press in recent years because they last a long time and consume less energy than traditional lamp choices, they do contain mercury and must be disposed of properly, adding another expense. CFLs can be hazardous if broken and can harm the environment. LEDs, on the other hand, contain no hazardous materials, are virtually unbreakable, have no UV rays and are recyclable.
