Calculate LED Light Bulb Running Costs at Electrical2Go.co.uk!

LED Light Bulbs vs CFL Light Bulbs

People are still deciding whether to switch from old light bulbs to energy-saving ones, like CFLs or LEDs. The ongoing discussion about LED versus CFL is something people are increasingly familiar with. When choosing a different type of bulb, people often want to maintain or increase efficiency and consider light bulb running costs as a big part of the decision making process. However, identifying these costs can be confusing.

To help, we've created a guide outlining the running costs of each type of bulb. If you're contemplating a transition from CFL to LED lighting, we invite you to peruse our comprehensive guide. This valuable resource is designed to empower you with the knowledge and insights necessary to make an educated decision regarding the type of bulb that aligns perfectly with your unique requirements. Understanding the types and benefits of light bulbs is crucial in determining their running costs and being in control of how much money and energy you are able to save over a year and beyond. Getting to grips with the workings of LED and CFL bulbs is paramount when keeping costs and energy usage as low as possible.

LED bulbs and CFL bulbs differ primarily in their method of light production. LED bulbs generate light by utilising electricity, while CFL bulbs rely on ultraviolet light and heat. LED bulbs achieve this by incorporating a phosphor interior. One noticeable distinction is that CFL bulbs may have a delay of up to three minutes before fully illuminating, which can be a source of annoyance for those unfamiliar with this characteristic.

Use of CFL vs LED Bulbs

LED and CFL bulbs can be useful to serve different purposes, depending on the type of light that is needed for an environment. LED Lights can emit light in a specific direction, ideal for use as downlights in kitchens, bathrooms, hallways or for task-based lighting (e.g. reading).

However, there are also directional and wide beam angle LED lights available, providing more control of light angle and spread, essentially you then get to light the areas of the room you want to, putting you in control of your space and how it's lit. CFL lights are ideal for lighting large spaces such as offices and schools. However, they are not suitable for focused lighting, such as reading lights or downlights.

Which brand should you buy?

LED bulbs are popular because they save money on electricity. Brands are making new types of LED bulbs. Leading brands that we stock include Aurora LED Bulbs, Bell Lighting LED Bulbs, Sylvania LED LIght Bulbs, Robus LED Bulbs, Saxby LED Lamps and Integral LED Bulbs and many more.

We currently supply 15 brands of LED light bulbs with more added regularly. If there is a brand you'd like to see us stock, we're always happy to receive requests for the products you work with the most. Pop us an email at sales@electrical2go.co.uk and let us know what products you'd like to see more of.

Components of CFL Bulbs

CFL bulbs contain a small amount of mercury within their lightbulbs. While the bulb remains intact, no mercury is released. However, it's crucial to handle any broken bulbs with care and dispose of them in a sensible and responsible manner. It's important to prioritise safety and proper disposal when dealing with broken bulbs. Please don't put them into your regular household bin, simply take them to a recycling center or specialist for safe disposal.

LED Lifespan vs CFL Lifespan

LED bulbs have a much longer lifespan than CFL lamps. They can provide up to 50,000 hours of light, while CFLs typically last 8,000 hours, so they may be more expensive to begin with but you will be changing them much less often, and caring for the planet while you're at it.

Heat Release

LED bulbs do not get hot like CFL bulbs. LED Lamps release most of their energy as light so they keep the room temperature cooler in the hotter months.

Efficiency of LED Lamps

LED lights use less electricity and last a lot longer, so you save money by replacing bulbs less often. This makes them a more economical choice in the long term, saving you money and helping to protect our planet. Win Win!

Are LED lights cheaper to run than energy saving bulbs?

Yes they are cheaper to run. LED lamps are cheaper to run than energy saving bulbs.

Remember, the price you pay for a light bulb at first isn't the only cost. Cheaper bulbs may not save you money in the long run. You should take into account the lifespan, efficiency and energy usage of each type of bulb when considering total costs. LED bulbs cost more upfront, but you'll need to buy fewer in the long run.

Find out more about light bulb running costs in our handy guide below:

Shop LED GU10 Bulbs

LED

CFL

Light bulb projected lifespan	25,000 Hours	10,000 Hours
Watts per bulb (equiv. 60 watts)	8.5	14
Cost per bulb	£3.65	£1.46
Equivalent 25,000 hours bulb expense	£3.65	£3.65
Total cost for 25,000 hours	£19.16	£29.2
Total cost for 25 bulbs	£478.75	£730

Please note: Figures are approximate in UK as of June 2023
Source Article Used

LED Light Bulbs Range

We have many LED light bulbs at Electrical2Go. Our LED Bulbs are chosen for their cost, quality, and variety to fit any need, as we know we need to continue to offer a variety of solutions and a flexible range to suit any project and budget. Click through our categories or filter by your go-to brand to shop our best selling LED bulb ranges that save you money, and are kinder to the planet.