Key takeaways
- LEDs use a fraction of the power
- Quality LEDs offer warm, natural color
- Old sockets and wire may need replacing
- Have the transformer checked
Energy and heat
Halogen lamps draw several times the power of an LED that gives the same light, and they run hot. LED fixtures run cool, which is gentler on plants and fixtures, and the low power draw means a smaller transformer can run more lights.
Over a few years, the lower energy use and fewer bulb changes offset the higher price of LED lamps.
Color and quality
Early LEDs had a bad reputation for harsh color. Today, quality LEDs offer warm, natural color and good color rendering, and come in a range from candle-warm to cooler white.
Cheap LEDs can still look harsh or flicker on dimmers, so choose well-made lamps and fixtures.
Converting an existing system
Many older fixtures can take LED lamps, but corroded sockets, fogged lenses and old wire may be worth replacing at the same time. Check the transformer as well: some older units do not work well with LEDs.
A good installer tests the system and tells you which parts to keep.
Related services
Quick answers
Will LED lights last as long as advertised?
Quality LED lamps often last many thousands of hours, far longer than halogen. Heat, moisture and power quality affect real-world life, so good fixtures and wiring matter.
Can I mix LED and halogen on one system?
It is possible, but the loads and dimming behave differently. It is usually better to convert a whole zone at once.
Ready to talk it through? Get a free estimate or call 615-431-3789.