Basic Lighting Terminology

Light Emitting Diode (LED)

An LED, or Light Emitting Diode, is a semiconductor light source that generates light when an electric current flows through it. During this process, energy is emitted as photons. In simpler terms, LEDs are much more effective at converting energy into light compared to traditional incandescent or fluorescent lamps. They consume less power, have a significantly longer lifespan, and produce less heat.

Built-in LEDs allow for sleek designs with a thickness of just 1/2 inch. A growing number of lighting fixtures now feature built-in LEDs, which are permanently integrated into the luminaire rather than being removable. This design enables manufacturers to create thinner, more elegant fixtures that can be installed in locations unsuitable for traditional recessed lights. Many users prefer to use LED lighting to accentuate artwork, and contemporary picture lighting heavily relies on LEDs.

Lifespan of LEDs

How long do LEDs last? Quite a long time! Typically, LED bulbs can last anywhere from 25,000 to 50,000 hours. In contrast, standard incandescent bulbs usually last about 1,000 to 2,000 hours. Unlike traditional bulbs, which burn out suddenly, LEDs gradually diminish in brightness. When purchasing an LED fixture, you may notice terms like "50,000 hours to 70 percent" (often referred to as "L70"). This indicates that you can expect the LED to maintain at least 70% of its original brightness after approximately 50,000 hours of use. The combination of extended lifespan and low energy consumption makes LED technology highly appealing.

Correlated Color Temperature (CCT)

One of the remarkable features of LED technology is its ability to offer customizable lighting designs with varying color temperatures, brightness levels, and efficiencies. CCT is measured in Kelvin (K), ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 degrees. Higher Kelvin values yield light that closely resembles natural sunlight. Warmer whites generally fall below 3000K, neutral whites hover around 4000K, and cooler whites start at 5000K and above. The common range for both commercial and residential lighting typically lies between 2500K and 5000K. It's crucial to consider color temperature when selecting a fixture, as it influences the ambiance you wish to create.

Color Rendering Index (CRI)

The CRI scale has gained traction alongside the increased use of LEDs in homes. It serves as a measure of how accurately a light source represents the natural colors of objects. In an era dominated by social media filters that alter perceptions of color, CRI aims to present colors authentically—from artworks to culinary creations. A CRI rating of 90 or higher is considered excellent, indicating that colors will appear true to life under LED lighting.

Power and Luminous Flux (Watts and Lumens)

When exploring LED options, you'll often encounter both lumens and watts. Many people mistakenly associate watts with light output, when it is actually lumens that measure perceived brightness. More lumens mean a brighter light. Watts represent electrical power consumption, which directly affects your energy bill. Understanding the lumens-per-watt ratio is essential when selecting LED lighting. For instance, an LED bulb may use just 9 watts to produce 1,000 lumens, while an equivalent incandescent bulb would require 100 watts for the same output.

Dimming

Controlling lighting levels is increasingly popular, especially with the rise of smart home technology. Being able to adjust the brightness in a room is essential, so consider using dimmers when possible. Quality LED manufacturers produce dimmable LEDs, but it's important to verify this feature when purchasing, as not every fixture may be dimmable. Dimming is also a practical way to conserve energy and lower operating expenses.

Additional Useful Terms

Line Voltage and Low Voltage

Line voltage refers to the standard voltage in sockets and junction boxes, typically 220 V in many countries, and 110–120 V in the USA, Canada, and parts of Europe. Line voltage fixtures operate on a "plug-and-play" basis. Conversely, low voltage lighting operates at 12V or 24V and requires a transformer to reduce the main voltage, preventing low voltage bulbs from burning out. Transformers can be built into the fixture or be separate power supplies for LED strips.

Rating L70/LM80

L70 measures the time it takes for a light source to drop to 70% of its original brightness. LM80 is a standardized testing method used to evaluate the lumen depreciation of LED light sources.

Listed as DLC

In many regions, energy companies offer incentives for commercial buildings that switch to LED lighting. DLC refers to a list of approved LED fixtures that qualify for these discounts. To be eligible for rebates, your lighting must be included on this list.

IC Rated

IC stands for "Insulating Contact." An IC-rated recessed fixture can be safely used in insulated ceilings, such as stretch or plasterboard, without the risk of overheating.

As more homes and businesses transition to LED lighting, understanding these terms is crucial for making informed decisions. Our team is always available to assist clients with questions or additional information.

The first video titled "LED Terminology: 5 Things you Need to Know (featuring Bounce LED Prism)" explains essential LED concepts and their applications, which can greatly enhance your understanding of LED lighting technology.

In the second video, "BASICS OF LIGHTING - What You Need To Know Before Buying," viewers can learn foundational lighting principles that will aid in selecting the right lighting solutions for their needs.