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Switching from traditional lighting (incandescent, halogen, CFL) to LED is one of the simplest home upgrades with the fastest payback. LEDs use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer. This comparison breaks down the full cost picture.
| Metric | LED Lighting | Traditional Lighting |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Per Bulb | $2 - $8 | $1 - $3 |
| Lifespan | 25,000 - 50,000 hours | 1,000 - 10,000 hours |
| Energy Use (60W equivalent) | 8-10 watts | 40-60 watts |
| Annual Cost per Bulb | $1 - $2/year | $5 - $8/year |
| Best For | Every application — whole-home upgrade | Specialty/decorative use only |
| Light Quality | Wide range — warm to daylight, dimmable | Warm only (incandescent), varies (CFL) |
Switch to LED — the payback is virtually immediate. Replacing 20 bulbs in a typical home from incandescent to LED saves $150-$300 per year in electricity. The bulbs last 15-25 years at average use, so you also eliminate the hassle and cost of constant replacements. Start with the most-used fixtures (kitchen, living room, outdoor) for the fastest savings. Use the money saved on electricity to upgrade dimmer switches if needed for flicker-free dimming.
A typical Ontario home with 30 light fixtures can save $200-$400 per year by switching from incandescent to LED. The LED bulbs themselves pay for themselves within 3-6 months through electricity savings. Over the 25,000-hour LED lifespan, a single bulb saves $100-$200 compared to buying and powering equivalent incandescent bulbs.
Most modern LED bulbs are dimmable, but they require a compatible LED dimmer switch. Older dimmer switches designed for incandescent bulbs may cause LED flickering, buzzing, or limited dimming range. Replacing a standard dimmer with an LED-compatible dimmer costs $15-$30 for the switch and is a simple DIY project.
For living rooms and bedrooms, choose "warm white" (2700K-3000K) for a cozy, incandescent-like glow. For kitchens, bathrooms, and work areas, "bright white" (3500K-4000K) provides clear, energizing light. For garages and task lighting, "daylight" (5000K-6500K) maximizes visibility. Avoid using daylight LEDs in bedrooms as the blue-rich light can interfere with sleep.
Find licensed contractors in your area who can help you choose between led lighting and traditional lighting.
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