LEDs used to be employed exclusively in instrument panels, electronics and Christmas lights. Clustering these bulbs into groups can greatly increase their practical applications. Clustered bulbs that fit into traditional incandescent sockets are now available. Bulbs that feature diffuser lenses help to broaden the beams of flashlights and track lights.
LEDs are some of the longest-lasting lights available to consumers. The LED Light and Lunar Accents both claim that this type of bulb is rated to last for over 45,000 hours. Storing or operating LEDs in environments featuring excessively high temperatures or high humidity can decrease the overall rated life of the bulb, according to Lunar Accents.
The high cost of LED technology has been the biggest roadblock in the campaign for their widespread use, according to Earth Easy. Current bulbs feature sapphire-based technology, which is quite costly. Research into silicon wafer-based technology is being pursued at Purdue University. Silicone wafers could be the key to affordable LEDs. Household clustered lightbulbs that fit into traditional incandescent light sockets are available for anywhere between $60 and $70, as of 2010.
These bulbs contain no loose parts. The entire device is embedded in epoxy. Filaments are very delicate and easily damaged. Part of the reason that LEDs are so durable is that they contain no filament and are very cold- and shock-resistant. They are available in a variety of colors. The color of each bulb is determined by the bulb's semiconductor chemical makeup. Unlike many other types of bulbs on the market, these contain no elemental mercury.
One of the greatest benefits associated with this lighting technology is that it loses very little energy due to heat production. LEDs can run for hours and still remain relatively cool to the touch. Typical white LEDs emit anywhere between 15 and 19 lumens per drawn watt of power. A 3-watt light has similar light output as a 45-watt incandescent lightbulb.