Questions and Answers on Decorative Light Strings

Why should I purchase ENERGY STAR^® qualified decorative light strings?

What is a light-emitting diode?

What benefits do LED decorative light strings offer besides being energy efficient?

Are LEDs' more expensive to buy?

Can LED decorative lights be installed outdoors?

Can LED decorative lights be connected with incandescent strings?

Can LED decorative light strings be installed on a timer?

Are there other applications for LED lights?

Why should I purchase ENERGY STAR qualified decorative light strings?

The answer is simple – because they use up to 90 percent less energy than comparable incandescent lights, and are more durable and shock-resistant. ENERGY STAR qualified decorative light strings have been independently tested to meet strict requirements for energy consumption, light output and overall performance, as well as weather-related requirements for outdoor strings. They also carry a minimum three-year warranty against all defects. To date, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), is the only technology capable of meeting the ENERGY STAR criteria and qualifying to use this international symbol for energy efficiency.

What is a light-emitting diode?

Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, are tiny light bulbs that are illuminated by the movement of electrons through a semiconductor material. LEDs are extremely energy efficient, using up to 90 percent less energy than an incandescent bulb to produce the same amount of light. Looked at another way, the amount of electricity consumed by just one 7-watt incandescent bulb could power 140 LED bulbs – enough to light two 7.3-metre (24-foot) strings.

What benefits do LED decorative light strings offer besides being energy efficient?

Superior energy efficiency is only one of many benefits offered by LED decorative light strings. Because they don't have a filament that will burn out, LEDs can last up to 10 times longer than regular incandescent bulbs. They have no moving parts and no glass, so they are much more durable and shock-resistant than other light bulbs. LEDs also produce very little heat, reducing the risk of fire. Not least important, by dramatically reducing energy consumption, LEDs can curb greenhouse gas emissions that are contributing to climate change.

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Are LEDs' more expensive to buy?

Some LED decorative light strings may cost more than regular incandescent lights, depending on colours. However, you can recover the extra cost through energy savings in two seasons or less, after which you will save money year after year.

Can LED decorative lights be installed outdoors?

Most LED decorative light strings can be used both indoors and outdoors, although some are rated only for indoor use. Check the package, and always follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

Can LED decorative lights be connected with incandescent strings?

As a general rule, this is not recommended, as connecting an LED decorative light string together with an incandescent string can reduce the life of the LEDs and may pose a safety hazard. Always check the packaging or the manufacturer's instructions inside the box for warnings or other details before connecting the two types of strings together.

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Can LED decorative light strings be installed on a timer?

Yes, LED decorative light strings can be used with a timer. In fact, this is the preferred approach from an energy efficiency perspective. Using a timer to turn decorative light strings on and off means you won't waste energy by unintentionally leaving lights turned on overnight, when no one is awake to enjoy them!

Are there other applications for LED lights?

LEDs are widely used in exit signs, traffic signals, electronics and the automotive industry in Canada, and have been for some time. Beyond the decorative light string market, however, general lighting applications are currently limited. Although some LED lamps are available for desktop or direct lighting applications, outstanding issues need to be resolved related to efficacy and cost before LEDs can be considered practical or competitive for general residential lighting applications. Nevertheless, great strides are being made and LEDs are expected to become an effective replacement for inefficient lamps in the years ahead.