LED Bulbs: How Much Do They Really Save?
🇩🇪 Diesen Artikel auf Deutsch lesenLED bulbs use at least 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last many times longer, according to the US Department of Energy. A 9-watt LED gives about the same light as a 60-watt incandescent. Replacing frequently used bulbs first gives the quickest payback.
Lighting is a smaller share of energy use than heating or cooling, but LED bulbs are cheap, last for years and save money from day one.
Choosing the right bulb
| Old incandescent | LED equivalent (approx.) | Brightness |
|---|---|---|
| 40 W | 5–6 W | ~450 lumens |
| 60 W | 8–10 W | ~800 lumens |
| 75 W | 11–13 W | ~1,100 lumens |
| 100 W | 14–17 W | ~1,600 lumens |
- Lumens measure brightness — compare lumens, not watts.
- Color temperature: 2700K is warm white like old bulbs; 4000–5000K is cooler and suits kitchens and workspaces.
- Dimmable: use bulbs labeled dimmable on dimmer switches to avoid flicker.
Calculate your savings
Compare a 60 W bulb and a 9 W LED for the same hours per day:
Appliance Electricity Cost CalculatorWhat does a device cost to run?Try the calculator →Where to start
Replace bulbs in rooms you use most first: kitchen, living room and outdoor lights that run for hours. Bulbs used a few minutes a day can wait until they burn out.
Frequently asked questions
Do LEDs contain mercury?
No. Unlike compact fluorescent bulbs, LEDs don't contain mercury, but they should still be recycled where possible.
Why do some LEDs flicker?
Often because of incompatible dimmers or cheap drivers. Use dimmable bulbs with LED-compatible dimmers.