When you purchase a light fixture you are also deciding what bulbs you will be buying in the future. Different fixtures require different bulbs and/or wattages, unless you get an integrated light fixture. This means the light will be connected to the fixture and will not require replacement bulbs. In this article we will discuss what LED integrated lights are, if they are replaceable, how long they last, and if they are worth the price. We will be comparing a LED integrated light to two standard bulb types; incandescent and fluorescent.

What are LED integrated lights?

LED lights or a light emitting diode, contains a semiconductor diode which glows when a voltage is applied. While an incandescent bulb is known for it’s warm glow, a LED bulb emits a cooler, blue tinted light.

LED integrated light fixtures incorporate LEDs directly into the luminaire and connect directly with low or line volt electrical systems.  Meaning an LED light is built directly into the light fixture.

 

Can LED Integrated lights be replaced?

In short no, LED integrated lights are not meant to be replaced, unlike standard replaceable bulbs. It is possible to change an integrated light bulb, however, it is built into multiple electrical circuit boards. The best way to have a LED integrated bulb changed out is to contact a professional.

How long will LED Integrated lights last?

Although the average lifespan of a LED integrated light bulb can vary it can roughly last around 40,000 to 50,000 hours. Compared to a standard incandescent bulb which lasts around 1,000 hours and a fluorescent light bulb which can last around 15,000 to 20,000 hours; it’s easy to see the lifespan of a LED integrated light last much longer.

 

 

What’s the difference between LED Integrated lights and standard replaceable light bulbs?

So what is the difference between standard replaceable bulbs and a LED integrated light? Other than their lifespan covered above other bulbs have a much different way of creating light. As mentioned LEDs create light with a semiconductor once a voltage is passed through it.

An incandescent bulb produces light by sending an electrical current to the base of a bulb, heating the tungsten filament inside. In easier terms it is light created by heat.

Another type is the fluorescent bulb which uses gas to create heat. When electricity is sent through the bulb, it creates a reaction with the phosphor on the inside turning it into fluoresce. Another thing to consider is the mercury inside a fluorescent bulb, although, it is only about 4mg it is important to dispose of properly to avoid breakage.

Of course there is the fact that LED integrated lights will not need a light bulb change, where as any replaceable bulb will need one depending on the lifespan of the light bulb.

Are LED Integrated lights worth the price?

Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question. LED integrated lights depend on the quality of the bulb and the lamp it is connected to. It will definitely run you more than a light fixture and a pack of bulb, which can seem like a great deal at first glance, however, as you continue having to buy bulbs the price will increase. If you compare the LED integrated lifespan to the standard incandescent bulb, 40 incandescent bulbs equals 1 LED integrated light.

 

 

 

Lights can brings personality to a room and having the right bulb can make all the difference. It is important to consider if the light is going to be somewhere you will not want to change the bulb or if you want to save money and eliminate the need for bulbs. We also love that integrated bulbs are nicer for anyone who may have trouble changing bulbs out. So when you buy your next light fixture remember to consider the bulbs it may need, if any.