LEDs are the future of lighting. Not only are they ultra bright, but they’re energy efficient and emit far less heat than incandescent bulbs. LED traffic signals are a great way to cut down on operating costs, keep pedestrians and drivers safe and protect the environment, all at the same time—and more and more traffic signal equipment manufacturers are starting to switch to them as a result.
If you’re thinking about switching to LED traffic signs, read on to learn more about their benefits.
What are LEDs?
LED stands for “light-emitting diode.” These tiny bulbs use 90 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs, and can last for tens of thousands of hours without needing replacement. LED lights are powered by a microchip and electrical current, emitting visible light when power passes through the chip.
LED bulbs come in a multitude of colors and light temperatures. This makes them a smart choice for just about any type of lighting—especially traffic signals.
Benefits of LEDs
Here’s a closer look at some of the key benefits of choosing LEDs:
- Cut down on operating costs: LED bulbs are more expensive at the outset, but they last a lot longer than their incandescent or fluorescent counterparts. Incandescent bulbs last about 1,200 hours, but a single LED light can last anywhere from 25,000 to 100,000 hours. That means your municipality will spend less money on lights—especially because they don’t cost that much more than incandescent bulbs.
- Brighter illumination increases traffic safety: One of the best things about LED lights is how bright these tiny bulbs are. They have greater brightness than incandescent and fluorescent lights, but are much less likely to burn out. This leads to increased visibility for drivers and pedestrians alike, keeping them safer on their commutes to work, school, errands, activities and more.
- Energy efficient: LED lights cost much less money to operate—so while they’re somewhat more expensive at the initial installation, they’ll save you money in energy costs, too. They also emit significantly less heat than incandescent bulbs, so there’s less risk of injuries or fire.
- Environmentally friendly: Since LED lights don’t require as much power to illuminate, they’re great in solar-powered signals. Their energy efficiency and low operating costs make them the natural choice for an environmentally-conscious city or county.
- Low maintenance: You’ll rarely have to replace LED bulbs, compared to incandescent versions—which means they’re a lot lower maintenance than other types of lighting. Your municipality will save money on labor as well as replacement bulbs and power.
- Cut down on the “phantom effect”: Finally, you can avoid the “phantom effect” when you switch to LED bulbs. Incandescent-powered traffic signals have reflectors. In east-west traffic signals, during sunrise and sunset, the reflectors can make it appear that all three lights are on at the same time. That’s dangerous for vehicles and pedestrians alike.
As you can see, LEDs are a smart choice for your traffic signals. They’re dependable, efficient, ultra bright and low maintenance. If you’ve been considering an upgrade, there’s no better time to do so.
Signal Equipment Company South is an experienced traffic signal equipment manufacturer, and we’re here for your traffic signal needs. Call today to get started with a consultation!