There was a time when fluorescent lights were your only option for illuminating signs. With the advent of LEDs, you can now greatly enhance the longevity of your bulbs while reducing overall illumination costs. Some business owners are not yet certain that this product is right for them. To make the decision easier for you, our technicians have compiled must-know information on LED vs. fluorescent lighting for your business.
Long-lasting and Efficient
Source: Greentech Efficiency
LED tubes have a lifespan twice that of fluorescent bulbs. That said, the average fluorescent bulb lasts at least ten times as long as your standard incandescent bulb. If you are still using those, stepping up to fluorescents sounds like a good deal – until you consider the output efficiency. LEDs beat fluorescent and incandescent bulbs.
See this amazing video: The Race: SignBOX II vs. Fluorescent by SloanLED:
Visually Pleasing and Safe to Dispose Of
Fluorescent lights are notorious for flickering. In fact, this is one of their attributes, showcased time and again in B movies where the director tries to set the scene of a desolate hotel in the middle of nowhere. Is this really what you want your signage to say about your business?
In addition, the glow these bulbs emit tends to bathe everything in harsh light. For the hotel or restaurant where the setting matters, this is not a good match. On top of that, fluorescent bulbs contain mercury and phosphor, which require special handling during disposal. LEDs provide a safe light source that illuminates without casting a dreary flicker.
Repairs are Less Expensive
Part and parcel of ordering a sign is the maintenance required to keep it on your property. Periodic cleaning or upkeep is a given. Yet when something is wrong with the illumination, LEDs are easier on the pocketbook. If the bulbs have burned out, replacement is quick and easy. There is no hazardous waste disposal fee. As well, if there is a problem with the light source, the replacement units are inexpensive.
When using the fluorescent bulb, any savings you might realize from the purchase of these cheap light sources go by the wayside when you pay for the hazardous material handling. Moreover, fixing the ballast and associated systems is an expensive undertaking.
Ordering Your Signage Illumination Today
Now that you know where you stand in the comparison between LED and fluorescent lighting for your businesses in San Clemente, it makes sense to give LED a good look. The professionals at Starfish Signs & Graphics routinely work with all types of companies to install LED signage or upgrade existing markers from fluorescent to LED lighting. Contact us today for more information on the process and to get started on your order.
We walk you through the steps and show you a cost breakdown of the charges you would incur for LED replacements and service calls. We also show you how much it costs to maintain a sign with fluorescent bulbs.
Resource:
Earth Easy / Energy Efficient Lighting