Author Topic: replacing halogens with LEDs... before they burn out?  (Read 2082 times)

nereo

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replacing halogens with LEDs... before they burn out?
« on: February 17, 2014, 03:35:49 PM »
Hello Mustachians

I'd like opinions on whether I should replace the plethora of halogen lights currently illuminating my home now, or if I should wait for each one to burn out and then serially replace them.  A bit of info; my current bulbs are MR16-type (GU10 base) halogens that draw 35w each.  I have about 15 of them left, and they cost about $2-3 each, and are rated to last 2000 hours.  I've replaced the ones we use the most with 6w LEDs with very good results.  They seem to cost about $12 each and should last >>25,000 hours.  All of the halogens are about a year old (renovation), so many of them won't need replacing for 2+ years.

The side of my that wants to maximize the energy efficiency wants to replace every bulb NOW.  But the side of me that hates wasting anything that still functions says "wait until each one burns out, then replace it with an LED.  Don't throw out usable things."

Adding to my confusion - whether these bulbs will come down in price significantly.  That confounds my "calculate the savings I'd get from switching" equation.
I'm completely sold that LED is the way to go for my place, long-term...

Thoughts?

warfreak2

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Re: replacing halogens with LEDs... before they burn out?
« Reply #1 on: February 17, 2014, 03:42:15 PM »
The price of efficient bulbs won't come down faster than you'll save money using them. If it makes sense to replace them, it makes sense to replace them immediately.

As for not wasting them, if you (or a friend) are renting, and have to leave the property in the state you found it in (i.e. make sure the bulbs work when you move out), keep them (or pass them on to said friend) so that you can put them back in when you move out, and take the efficient bulbs with you!

 

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