Many people are turning to LED lights as an alternative to incandescent pool lights. LED bulbs are brighter, more efficient and last longer. They also offer more color and installment options. For money-saving and personalization, there is no better option than LED pool lighting!
An LED is different from an incandescent bulb in a few ways. An incandescent bulb creates light by heating a wire filament1. An LED bulb is a small semiconductor that converts electrical energy into light. These lights also use a microprocessor to control all aspects of illumination2.
Color
LED lights are considered to be a “cooler” color than incandescent bulbs. This means that they appear bluer to the eye and white looks crisper. This makes it ideal for illuminating pools because they penetrate the water better. It is also safer for night-time swimming because you can see everything that is happening under the water.
Efficiency
Light bulbs are rated by their power usage in watts. LED bulbs are far more efficient than incandescent bulbs, meaning they use less energy. A typical 300-watt incandescent bulb is about the same brightness as a 45-watt LED bulb. LED bulbs work at about 80% efficiency. They also generate less heat, which means that the gaskets in the light will last longer.
Energy savings
Because LED lights are more efficient, they save you money. With the same number of bulbs, the energy cost is significantly lower with LED. This means you spend less on electricity. According to AQUA Magazine the costs break down as follows:
“300-watt incandescent bulb x 8 hours x 365 days = 876 kWh/ year at $0.15/kWh = $131.00.
45-watt LED bulb x 8 hours x 365 days = 116 kWh/ year at $0.15/ kWh = $17.00
Savings in energy costs per year: $114.00 per year (per bulb).”2
Longevity
Because LED bulbs are more efficient, they last longer, too. LED bulbs have about 10 times the life expectancy of traditional bulbs3. This means you will have to change them a lot less often. This means more time for you and more money in your wallet.
Installation Options
LED light bulbs are much smaller, giving them more options for pool and landscape installation. They can also be installed with niche-less housing, meaning they take up less room and are less intrusive. This allows them to be used for shallow sun shelves, narrow walls, under pedestals and more3. It can also bring new life to water features and other pool design aspects.
Themes and Automation
Looking to add some color to your pool? LED lights have microprocessors that allow them to exhibit a wide range of colors. This allows for theme lighting in near-endless combinations. Some advanced systems can even display extravagant light shows of varied color and timing combinations. Controlling the colors and light shows made possible by LED lights is enhanced by automation. Program and control your lights from anywhere at any time using a computer, tablet or wireless device in conjunction with an automation system4.
In summary, LED lights are the preferred choice for pool lighting. They can be used for a variety of applications, are more efficient and more durable. The initial cost of purchasing an LED lamp will be made back in less than 2 seasons of pool use2.
A Pinch A Penny expert can help select the proper automation and LED light combination for your pool. For more information on LED lighting, head to your local Pinch A Penny Store.
Sources
