A report released by the US Department of Energy has revealed that the nation could save $37 billion (£23.8 billion) in energy costs if it made the overnight switch to LED bulbs. Therefore, many homes could be similarly missing out on valuable savings by not making the switch to more energy-efficient and cost-effective bulbs.
The report looked at different applications of state lighting schemes in order to come to this conclusion, including indoor lamps and luminaires - such as decorative and downlight applications - and outdoor lighting like that used for street lamps and car parks.
According to the results, $37 billion of savings equates to around half of the total national lighting energy consumption for the whole of last year.
Therefore, any home or business owners who are guilty of guzzling power with incandescent, halogen, high-pressure sodium and fluorescent bulbs and lamps should really consider the financial benefits they could be reaping by making the switch.
For domestic properties, installing some LED bulbs in the place of any outdated bathroom spotlights could be a good place to start, as these rooms get used every single day, meaning that lights get flicked on and off a lot.
Similarly, for business properties where lights tend to get left on throughout the working day, it is imperative that bulbs everywhere - including in office spaces, toilets, communal areas, lobbies and foyers - are using the minimum amount of power necessary to produce an adequate source of light. If not, businesses may be flushing vast amounts of cash down the drain.
Naturally, it is extremely important that the bulbs deliver an appropriate lighting level. However, the amount of time and money being invested in the development of LED technology is seeing bulbs continually being improved, meaning that there will soon be absolutely no excuse not to make the switch.
Currently, LEDs are sometimes criticised for producing light that is too blue or cold, whereas some more traditional lighting solutions can emit a warmer hue.
