Swapping from conventional bulbs to Light Emitting Diode (LED) has definite benefits.

LED’s don’t dim with age and generally outlast the filament-based bulbs of old – and they use a fraction of the electricity. They’re coming down in price to closer to the level of the ‘old’ bulbs, too. What’s not to like?

Shops have switched over to selling LED’s (the conventional bulbs have been mostly outlawed in Europe) but many a home have the old kind still in use. This author sees Halogen down-lighters all too often and, with each one consuming around ten times the power of an LED version, they’re an easy win when it comes to saving on the electricity bill. Swapping over to LED’s will save energy and, in many cases, offer better illumination.

They’re available in most fitting styles but be aware that there are two main styles: 12v and 240v. The 12v kind generally have thinner connecting pins and will need a transformer (in simple terms, a change to the light fitting) but the increasing number of 240v styles mean that more and more existing installations can use these highly efficient bulbs. Be a little wary if the circuit is dimmable: not all LED’s will work with existing dimmer controls so check the new bulb is labelled as dimmer-capable if that’s a requirement.

Start by changing the bulbs that are left on the most – kitchen, living room or work areas – that’ll give you the biggest savings – and gradually work through the house. You’ll thank us later!