Last updated on September 11th, 2023 at 06:51 pm
I know you are probably one of those people who would like to know how long LED lights last.
First, the answer can be straightforward – check the LED light manufacturer’s packaging box. In most cases, they may indicate the lifespan of bulbs in terms of years or lighting hours.
Look at this:
Although these numbers can give a rough lifespan on how long LED lights last, at times they may not be very accurate. It is because several factors determine the lifespan of bulbs.
So, How Long LED Lights Do Last?
Factors that determine bulbs lifespan are:
Overheating Reduces Lifespan Of LED Bulb
These lighting systems are heat sensitive. Therefore, exposing these lights to excess heat will reduce their lifespan significantly.
For this reason, your lighting system must have an effective mechanism to dissipate heat. Even installing bulb alongside other lighting systems such as halogen lights may cause overheating. As a result, this will reduce the lifespan of your bulb.
Use Compatible Power Source For LED Lights
All the lighting systems have rated wattage and voltage. Installing LED bulbs with a low power rating in a fixture with a high power rating will damage them.
Type Of Chip In LED Light
A high-quality chip will guarantee a long life span of bulbs.
Heat Sink In LED Lights
Choose lights with efficient and high-quality heat sinks. This will ensure effective cooling, hence preventing overheating. As result, the lights will serve you for a long time.
These are some of the main factors determining LED bulb lifespan. Other factors may include following proper installation procedure, and the quality of material.
But again, you should know that there is luminous decay. That is, over time the light output from the LED lights will begin to reduce. Of course, you will realize this at L70. It is the lamp lumen maintenance factor.
Let’s look at the theoretical lifespan of various types of bulbs:
Type of Bulbs | Estimate Lifespan Hours |
LED Bulb | 40,000 to 50,000 |
Fluorescent Bulb | 24,000 to 36,000 |
High Intensity Discharge Bulb | 10,000 to 24,000 |
Compact Fluorescent Bulb | 8,000 to 20,000 |
Halogen Bulb | 2,000 to 4,000 |
Incandescent Bulb | 750 to 2,000 |
In a nutshell, the manufacturers indicate the theoretical lifespan of LED lights. However, the environment, fixture, and usage will determine how long LED lighting systems will serve you.