For years, we used dimmable compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs throughout our house. They did the job, but never quite impressed. Now, with the release of my new book Green Lighting, it felt like the perfect time to make a change—and finally start the switch to LEDs.
It’s Official: LEDs Are Our New Green Light at Home
October 2010 — After months of testing, comparing, and waiting, we’ve finally made the switch. LEDs are now the official green lighting choice in our house. It’s a big move—but the benefits are impossible to ignore.
Goodbye, Incandescents. Hello, Efficiency.
We’ve tried compact fluorescents (CFLs). We’ve dealt with their slow warm-up and weird coloring. But now, LEDs have won us over. They turn on instantly. They don’t flicker. And they deliver bright, consistent light—without wasting energy.
In fact, the LEDs we’ve installed use up to 80% less electricity than old incandescent bulbs. That’s real savings, not just on the power bill, but also in peace of mind. We’re reducing our carbon footprint, one light at a time.
Cooler Bulbs, Cooler Rooms
One of the first things we noticed? The heat is gone. Incandescent bulbs acted like mini space heaters. LEDs, on the other hand, stay cool to the touch. That means our rooms feel more comfortable, especially in warmer months.
With less heat in the house, our air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard. So yes, we’re even saving on cooling costs.
Lasts Longer, Works Smarter
Here’s another win: LEDs last longer. Most bulbs promise 20,000 to 50,000 hours of light. That’s years of use without a single replacement. In contrast, we used to go through old bulbs every few months.
That adds up—both in time and in money. Fewer trips to the store. Fewer changes on hard-to-reach ceilings. More reliability overall.
Better Light, Better Mood
We also love the quality of light. Early LED models had a cold, blue tone. But the new ones? They’re warm, bright, and clean. They light up our kitchen, living room, and office just right. No harsh glare. No delay. Just a steady glow that feels good.
Lighting affects how we feel. These LEDs make our home feel more inviting and energized. That’s something you notice every day.
Making the Switch
We didn’t change every bulb at once. Instead, we swapped out the highest-use lights first. Kitchen, hallway, desk lamps. Then came bedrooms and bathrooms. Now, nearly every bulb in our house is LED.
It wasn’t just about saving money—it was about making a smarter, greener home. And the transition was simple. No special wiring. No adapters. Just screw them in, flip the switch, and enjoy.
Leading the Way in Green Living
We talk a lot about green technology on this blog. But nothing beats putting it into practice. Choosing a green LED shows how small changes add up. With every light we switch, we use less energy and send a message.
It’s a message of progress. It’s about embracing smarter solutions. And it’s about proving that clean energy and everyday life can go hand-in-hand.
Sources:
- U.S. Department of Energy – Why Choose LEDs?
- ENERGY STAR – Lighting Facts
It is amazing that LEDs can last tens of thousands more hours than CFLs! They are definitely the way to go if you are living a green lifestyle. Not to mention they can save you a ton of money in the long run! I have been working for Sharp for a short period of time, but I have always been impressed with the quality of their products. I recommend you check out their LEDs.
Thanks Seth! The Light Show at the Jacob Javits in 2009 had hundreds of booths of light vendors. All showcased LEDs except for 2 or 3 CFL vendors who were looking quite dower and a small handful of incandescent vendors who had specialty shaped bulbs. While I love to CFLs for their bridging the gap and awareness raising qualities, these bulbs are the "8 track tapes" of the lighting industry.