![]() Long-term testing to back up lifetime claims.Verified compliance with more than 20 requirements to address performance and labeling.Guidelines for equivalency claims to take the guess-work out of replacement. ![]() Light distribution requirements to ensure the light goes where you need it.Light output minimums to ensure you get enough light.5 different requirements for color to ensure quality up front and over time.As the graphic on the right demonstrates, a general purpose LED bulb that does not qualify for the ENERGY STAR may not distribute light everywhere and could prove to be a disappointment if used in a table lamp.ĮNERGY STAR means high quality and performance, particularly in the following areas: LED bulbs that have earned the ENERGY STAR are subject to very specific requirements designed to replicate the experience you are used to with a standard bulb-so they can be used for a wide variety of applications. Despite that, ENERGY STAR is still the simple choice to save on your utility bills. There are more lighting options available today than ever before. Why should I choose ENERGY STAR certified LED lighting products? As a result, incandescent bulbs release 90% of their energy as heat. Incandescent bulbs produce light using electricity to heat a metal filament until it becomes “white” hot or is said to incandesce. The UV light is transformed into visible light when it strikes a phosphor coating on the inside of the bulb. This reaction produces ultraviolet (UV) light and heat. In a CFL, an electric current flows between electrodes at each end of a tube containing gases. Colored LEDs are widely used as signal lights and indicator lights, like the power button on a computer. Phosphor is a yellowish material that covers some LEDs. To produce white light, different color LEDs are combined or covered with a phosphor material that converts the color of the light to a familiar “white” light used in homes. However, it also means that sophisticated engineering is needed to produce an LED light bulb that shines light in every direction.Ĭommon LED colors include amber, red, green, and blue. That means LEDs are able to use light and energy more efficiently in a multitude of applications. LEDs are “directional” light sources, which means they emit light in a specific direction, unlike incandescent and CFL, which emit light and heat in all directions. When designed well, LED lighting is more efficient, versatile, and lasts longer. LED lighting differs from incandescent and fluorescent in several ways. How is LED lighting different than other light sources, such as incandescent and Compact Fluorescent (CFL)? Regardless of the heat sink design, all LED products that have earned the ENERGY STAR have been tested to ensure that they properly manage the heat so that the light output is properly maintained through the end of its rated life. Today, advancements in materials have allowed manufacturers to design LED bulbs that match the shapes and sizes of traditional incandescent bulbs. LED products use a variety of unique heat sink designs and configurations to manage heat. The higher the temperature at which the LEDs are operated, the more quickly the light will degrade, and the shorter the useful life will be. Thermal management is generally the single most important factor in the successful performance of an LED over its lifetime. This keeps LEDs from overheating and burning out. LEDs use heat sinks to absorb the heat produced by the LED and dissipate it into the surrounding environment. LEDs offer a tremendous opportunity for innovation in lighting form factors and fit a wider breadth of applications than traditional lighting technologies. There are also hybrid approaches where a non-traditional “bulb” or replaceable light source format is used and specially designed for a unique fixture. Some LED light fixtures may have LEDs built in as a permanent light source. Some LED bulb solutions may physically resemble familiar light bulbs and better match the appearance of traditional light bulbs. Small in size, LEDs provide unique design opportunities. LEDs are incorporated into bulbs and fixtures for general lighting applications.
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