You Gotta Spend Money to Save Money!

There was a time when fluorescent light fixtures were cutting edge technology, but just like using an overhead projector for song lyrics, the time has come to embrace new technology. 

Take a walk through your facilities.  Chances are you have some fluorescent fixtures lighting your kitchen, fellowship hall, or maybe even your sanctuary.  It’s very easy to think,“Hey, it’s not dark in here, so why go to the trouble and cost of replacing them?”

I’m glad you asked! 

1. Energy Efficiency: LED lights are far more energy-efficient than fluorescent lights. They use less power to produce the same amount of light, which can lead to significant savings on energy bills for churches, especially given the large spaces they often have to light.

2. Longer Lifespan: LEDs last much longer than fluorescent lights. While a typical fluorescent bulb might last around 8,000 hours, an LED can last up to 25,000 to 50,000 hours. This means fewer replacements and less maintenance effort and cost over time.  Less time on the ladder replacing expensive bulbs!

3. Lower Heat Emission: LED lights produce very little heat compared to fluorescent lights. This can help maintain a more comfortable environment in churches, especially in the summer months, and can reduce the load on air conditioning systems.  LED bulbs also don’t make that annoying buzz sound when they get old.

4. Better Light Quality: LED lights offer better color rendering and more consistent light output, providing a warmer and more inviting atmosphere, which is often desired in churches for a welcoming worship environment

5. Environmentally Friendly: LEDs are more eco-friendly. They don’t contain hazardous materials like mercury, which is found in fluorescent bulbs. Plus, because they last longer and are more energy-efficient, their environmental impact is much lower over their lifespan.  I’ve used old fluorescent bulbs as light sabers enough times to know that they are a mess to clean up.  Not the case with LED bulbs, although LED don’t make good light sabers.

6. Dimming Capabilities: Many LED fixtures come with dimming capabilities, which can be especially useful in churches for creating different moods or lighting levels depending on the service or event.  Impossible with a fluorescent bulb!

7. Cost Savings: While LED fixtures sometimes have a higher up front cost, the long-term savings in energy costs and reduced maintenance make them a smart investment. Over time, the cost difference is often recouped, and churches see significant savings.

   I just took a minute to do some price comparisons.  I found a 2 pack of 48-inch fluorescent replacement bulbs for $13.98. This does not include the fixture or the cost of replacing a bad ballast.  Bulbs only. 

Another retailer had a 48-inch LED light complete light fixture on sale for $19.99, which over time would be a far better investment!  Energy savings and bulb life will more than cover the price difference.

Given these benefits, LED lights offer both financial and environmental advantages, making now a great time to upgrade your church lighting.  Develop a plan.  Update one room at a time or budget for a scale swap out.