How Long LED Lights Last? [UPDATED GUIDE]

As with every material item, there is a lifespan and an expiry date. The way you buy food products and look for their shelf life so that you can get the maximum benefit from them, LED lights also have a life span. This affects their functionality and lets you know when you are supposed to make your next investment. In this article, we will discuss how long LED lights last and what factors are important in this regard.

Understanding LED Lights

LED lights are a modern lighting technology that has gained significant popularity in recent years. LEDs are small, solid-state devices that emit light when an electric current passes through them. Unlike traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, which rely on heating a filament or gas to produce light, LEDs use a semiconductor material to convert electrical energy directly into light. This process is known as electroluminescence.

LED lights offer several advantages over traditional lighting options. Some of them are as follows:

• First and foremost, LEDs are highly energy-efficient. They consume significantly less electricity than incandescent bulbs, resulting in substantial energy savings.
• LEDs also have a longer lifespan, often lasting up to 50,000 hours or more, compared to the average lifespan of around 1,000 hours for incandescent bulbs. This longevity reduces the need for frequent bulb replacements, leading to reduced maintenance costs. 
• Additionally, LED lights are highly durable and resistant to shock, vibration, and extreme temperature variations, making them suitable for various applications, including outdoor lighting. 
• Furthermore, LEDs are environmentally friendly since they do not contain harmful substances like mercury, which is found in fluorescent lights, and they can be recycled. 

Overall, the advancements in LED technology have made them a highly efficient, long-lasting, and eco-friendly lighting option that offers numerous benefits over traditional lighting choices.

Factors Affecting LED Lifespan

LED lights are the best options in all areas of lighting due to their extended lifespan. You can further extend this lifespan by considering the following factors.

Quality of the LED Chip

The most essential component in LED light is the chip that emits light directly. Poor design and quality of a LED chip can often shorten the life of LED light. A Good quality LED chip can last over 100,000 hours.

Heat Management and Thermal Design

High temperature is generally the most common reason for the failure of the LED lighting system. Excessive heat build-up within the device will accelerate the degradation process and then affect optical performance which leads to system failure. Proper thermal management including effective heat dissipation can significantly increase the longevity of LEDs.

Operating Conditions (Temperature, Humidity, etc.)

Although LED lights have a longer lifespan than traditional light bulbs, they also need to be used with proper care and maintenance to maximize their usefulness. Ambient temperature and bulb case temperature are crucial factors for the longer life span of LED lights. Letting LED lights cool off sufficiently will extend their age and improve their illumination. Hence place these lights in cool, dry, and humidity-free surroundings with enough space for heat dissipation. And allow them to cool off before switching them on again.

Usage Patterns and Duty Cycle

Usage patterns and duty cycles are considerable factors for the better and longer life span of LED lights. The duty cycle refers to the percentage of the time period that the light is on. It is true for LED lights rapidly switching on and off a light can be detrimental to their age.

Electrical Characteristics and Power Supply Quality

For constant current flow, LED lights need a special device called a power supply or LED driver which influences the performance and stability of lights throughout their lifespan. These LED  drivers protect your LED from current or voltage fluctuations. It efficiently regulates power from high to low as the power required by LEDs. The use of non-compatible electric wattages or voltage ratings will damage your circuit. So you should always choose a high-quality and compatible power supply for your LED lights to increase their longevity. 

Average Lifespan of LED Lights

Manufacturers’ Claims and Expectations

LEDs are known as long-lasting light sources, manufacturers claim some LED lights can last for 25 years or more.LEDs have a lifespan of 5,10,15 or even 25 years printed on their packaging which is attractive to customers but these statements or labeling can be misleading too. Because mostly the life of a LED light depends upon how it will be used daily.

The expected duration of LED light bulb life can be increased by using the following tips.

• LEDs are heat sensitive and their exposure to intense heat or cold can reduce their lifespan so keep that in mind and ensure that your ambient temperature or humidity is between 20-30℃.
• Turn off the lights when they are not needed.
• Check your power source for your light if you have a source that generates 40 watts and you install a light bulb of 12W it will overload the light and damage it.

Lumen Depreciation and Useful Life

Lumen measures the amount of light your LED lights put out. The higher the lumen the brighter the light will be. They are helpful to units to calculate how many lights to buy for your space. When LED lights are first installed they emit higher initial lumens, at that time light is brighter with greater output. Over time this quantity of LED light’s lumen output decreases in layman’s terms you can say they get dimmer. This process is called the “lumen depreciation” of light. This decline will be too slow to notice but once it drops to a certain point, they are considered to be at the end of their usable life.

Extended Lifespan Strategies

Some suggestions can be very helpful in extending the lifespan of your LED lights. These are as follows:

Thermal Management Techniques: 

One crucial factor in extending the lifespan of LED lights is effective thermal management. LEDs generate heat during operation, and excessive heat can degrade their performance and shorten their lifespan. To manage heat, LED lights are designed with heat sinks or heat-dissipating materials that help dissipate the heat away from the LEDs. Additionally, proper ventilation and airflow around the LED fixtures can aid in heat dissipation. Some advanced thermal management techniques include the use of thermally conductive materials, such as heat pipes or thermal pads, to efficiently transfer heat away from the LED components. By implementing effective thermal management strategies, LED lights can operate at lower temperatures, reducing stress on the LEDs and prolonging their lifespan.

Proper Installation and Maintenance:

The installation and maintenance of LED lights play a significant role in their longevity. During installation, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure that the LED lights are properly mounted, secured, and protected from environmental factors such as moisture and excessive vibrations. Adequate sealing and waterproofing measures should be taken for outdoor installations. Regular maintenance practices, such as cleaning the fixtures to remove dust and debris, can prevent heat buildup and maintain optimal performance. It is also essential to inspect the electrical connections and wiring periodically to identify any potential issues that could affect the lifespan of the LED lights. By ensuring proper installation and carrying out routine maintenance, LED lights can operate efficiently and have an extended lifespan.

Energy-Efficient Operation:

LED lights are inherently energy-efficient, but their lifespan can be further extended by promoting energy-efficient operation. LED lights should be used in conjunction with energy-saving practices such as utilizing dimming controls, occupancy sensors, or timers to adjust the light output based on the required illumination levels and occupancy patterns.

Overdriving LED lights or exceeding the recommended voltage can significantly reduce their lifespan, so it is crucial to operate them within the specified voltage range. By optimizing energy usage and avoiding excessive stress on the LEDs, LED lights can operate for longer durations and maintain their performance over time.

Choosing Reputable Manufacturers and Quality Products:

Selecting LED lights from reputable manufacturers and opting for high-quality products is vital for ensuring an extended lifespan. Established manufacturers often invest in research and development to improve the design, efficiency, and reliability of their LED lights. They adhere to rigorous quality control measures, leading to better product performance and longer lifespans. It is advisable to look for LED lights that meet industry standards and certifications as they indicate the product’s quality and energy efficiency. Investing in reliable and high-quality LED lights from reputable manufacturers increases the likelihood of enjoying extended lifespans and minimizing the risk of premature failure or degradation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Long Do LED Lights Typically Last Compared to Traditional Lighting Options?

LED lights have a significantly longer lifespan than traditional lighting options. While the exact lifespan varies based on several factors, LED lights can typically last anywhere from 25,000 to 50,000 hours, whereas traditional incandescent bulbs usually last around 1,000 hours.

What Factors Affect the Lifespan of LED Lights?

Several factors impact the lifespan of LED lights. These include the quality of the LED chip, effective heat management, operating conditions (temperature, humidity), usage patterns, and electrical characteristics. Proper consideration and management of these factors can help maximize the lifespan of LED lights.

How is LED Lifespan Measured?

LED lifespan is commonly measured using terms such as L70, L80, or L90. These values represent the percentage of light output that remains after a certain number of hours. For example, L70 indicates that the LED will maintain at least 70% of its initial brightness after a specified number of hours, typically 50,000. It provides a standard for comparing LED lifespans.

Can the Lifespan of LED Lights Be Extended?

Yes, there are strategies to extend the lifespan of LED lights. Proper thermal management, including effective heat dissipation, can significantly increase LED longevity. Additionally, following recommended installation and maintenance practices, operating the lights efficiently, and choosing high-quality products from reputable manufacturers can all contribute to longer LED lifespans.

 What Should I Consider When Purchasing LED Lights to Ensure Longevity?

When purchasing LED lights, several factors should be considered to ensure longevity. Look for products from reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality LEDs. Consider the warranty and guarantee terms offered by the manufacturer. Energy efficiency and certification should also be evaluated, as more efficient LEDs tend to have longer lifespans. Lastly, consider the LED lights’ overall cost and return on investment to make an informed decision.