Have you ever wondered how long LED lights actually last? Lighting experts often boast about their longevity and potential money-saving benefits, but is it all true? And is there a way to ensure you get the longest life possible out of your LED lights? In this article, we will explore the factors that influence the lifespan of LED lights and provide tips on how to maximize their longevity.

An LED’s Lifespan has Everything to do with How it is Used

LED lights are known for their impressive lifespan, with manufacturers often printing the expected life directly on the packaging. This lifespan can range from 5 to 20 years. However, there is more to the actual life of an LED than a simple manufacturer estimate. Factors such as intense heat, high frequency of use, and operating the LED light on a higher current than intended can all influence its actual lifespan.

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The reality is that the lifespan of an LED light will typically fall within a range of about 4 to 6 years. For example, an LED light could last 10 years if used in optimal conditions, but it may only last 8 years if frequently used outdoors in extremely hot temperatures. Conversely, if the light is kept in a room-temperature location and rarely used, it may last for 12 years. However, even if an LED light reaches the manufacturer-indicated lifespan, it will experience luminous decay, which reduces its light output over time.

Exposure to Intense Heat Can Dramatically Reduce the Lifespan of an LED Light

Like most electronic devices, LED lights are sensitive to extreme heat. They are generally designed to be used at room temperature, which ranges from about 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. While they can also be used in garages, sheds, or outdoors, most LED lights function best when the temperature remains below 75 degrees.

When exposed to extreme heat, the temperature of the semiconducting element within the LED increases, accelerating the degradation rate of the diodes. On the other hand, extreme cold does not reduce the lifespan of an LED. In fact, cool temperatures help keep the semiconducting element at a moderate temperature, prolonging the life of the LED and making them a great option for colder climates.

To Prolong Their Lifespan, Turn LED Lights Off When They’re Not in Use

While LED light bulbs do have a much longer lifespan than incandescent bulbs, it’s still important to turn off most indoor lights when you go to bed and outdoor lights in the morning. This simple step helps extend the life of the bulb. Every second the light is on takes away from the total life of the LED, so it’s best to preserve the light for when it’s actually necessary.

Investing in a smart home system or a lighting system with scheduling capabilities is a great way to ensure that all lights are turned off around the house. These systems allow you to set the time at which the lights will automatically turn off, saving electricity and increasing the lifespan of the LED bulbs.

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It’s worth noting that, unlike incandescent and halogen bulbs, repeatedly turning an LED light on and off does not impact its lifespan. The LED continues to function, and its lifespan is reduced by the amount of time the light was on, regardless of the number of times it was switched off and back on.

Running LED Lights on Higher Currents Than You Should Can Shorten Their Lifespans

Like any electrical device, LED lights have a specific operating range. Each LED is made to be used with a certain electrical current, which refers to the rate at which electricity flows into a circuit. When an LED bulb is used with a current that is too low, it doesn’t have enough energy to produce the expected light output. The benefit of this situation is that the LED lasts longer because it isn’t being used at its full capacity.

However, when an LED light is used with a current that is too high, it will shine brighter in an attempt to use all of the energy that the circuit is receiving. This reduces the lifespan of the bulb and can cause both the light fixture and LED circuit to overheat and burn out.

LED Light Bulbs with Well-Designed Heat Sinks May Last Longer

A heat sink is a component commonly used in electrical devices, such as computers, cellphones, and LED lights. Its purpose is to absorb and disperse excess heat, thereby cooling the internal components and circuitry of the device. LED lights with high-quality heat sinks typically last longer than identical LED lights with standard or low-quality heat sinks.

The design of the heat sink plays a crucial role in its effectiveness. A well-designed heat sink is more capable of absorbing and dispersing the heat produced during the light’s operation. It also helps protect the circuitry from high ambient temperatures, making these premium LED bulbs a good choice for hot climates.

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If Your LED Light Burns Out Prematurely, Check Its Manufacturer’s Warranty or Guarantee

Depending on the product, an LED light may come with a manufacturer’s warranty or guarantee of a certain lifespan. These warranties typically last between three to five years. If a bulb burns out within this warranty period, it is considered within the expected failure range. However, keep in mind that these warranties usually only cover the cost of replacing the specific LED light.

If you believe your LED light should still be covered by the warranty, you may need to send the product back to the manufacturer for testing. They will determine if it was used according to their directions and provide the necessary replacement or reimbursement. However, for a single LED bulb, the process may not be worth the effort unless it’s part of a larger warranty claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do LED lights typically last?
A: The lifespan of LED lights usually falls within a range of about 4 to 6 years. Factors such as heat, frequency of use, and operating current can influence their actual lifespan.

Q: Can extreme heat reduce the lifespan of LED lights?
A: Yes, exposure to intense heat can dramatically reduce the lifespan of LED lights. They function best when used at room temperature or below.

Q: Should I turn off LED lights when they’re not in use?
A: Yes, turning off LED lights when they’re not needed helps prolong their lifespan. Preserving the light for when it’s necessary saves energy and extends the overall life of the bulb.

Q: Can running LED lights on higher currents than recommended shorten their lifespan?
A: Yes, using LED lights with currents higher than the recommended range can both reduce their lifespan and cause overheating.

Q: Do LED light bulbs with well-designed heat sinks last longer?
A: Yes, LED lights with high-quality heat sinks often have longer lifespans. A well-designed heat sink helps absorb and disperse excess heat, protecting the circuitry and internal components of the LED light.

Q: Does a manufacturer’s warranty or guarantee cover LED lights?
A: LED lights may come with a manufacturer’s warranty or guarantee that lasts between three to five years. However, warranty claims usually only cover the cost of replacing the specific LED light.

Now that you have a better understanding of how long LED lights last and how to maximize their lifespan, you can make informed decisions when purchasing and using these energy-efficient lighting solutions. By following the tips mentioned in this article, you can enjoy the benefits of LED lights for years to come.