LED Light Bulbs

[mandana]

I couldn't find any threads regarding this so here goes.

I'd like to start the process of replacing the energy saver light bulbs in the house with the new LED versions. I've done some google-ing and find that prices range from R80 to R200 per bulb. :wtf:

Has any one gone through this process? Are there any particular brands to go for and stores to purchase from (Cape Town area)? Why are they so damn expensive and do they really save on the electricity consumption?

Any advice will be appreciated because it seems like this will be a costly exercise to replace over 30 light bulbs in the house.

 

[IceQB]

I think builders warehouse have them on special now.
http://www.builders.co.za/c/article/141/promotions/

 

[eltherza]

Makro by table view has some lower Watts LEDs as well

The are more expensive than the normal bulbs, but last much much much longer which evens out the cost (think they last 5x longer but are 5x the price).

 

[sal12344]

Whatever you do don't buy ECOLED lights from Brights. They started off well but now start flickering within a few months. Returned half of them I bought, yet none from the first batch I purchased.

 

[AzharK]

are you looking to replace downlighters or normal bulbs ?

we distribute a range of downlighters called GLO-LED which are very efficient.

Pricing is around R60 per bulb , depending on quantity this can drop to R45 per bulb - very competitive pricing.

Give me a shout via info[at]misdistributors[dot]coza

 

[etwylite]

Like most things,you tend to get what you pay for. When it comes to LED's, the LED itself will most probably never fail but the electronic "driver" is the component weakness.

OSRAM and Philips are pretty much at the head of the field but do cost more. Anything with a CREE component is generally top notch.
Do your homework. Actual efficiency is measured in Lumens per watt. eg Builders warehouse have the ellies 4w downlight that produces 180lm. or 45lumens per watt. Makro have a radiant 3w that produces 270lm or 90lm/w.
Also consider the bulb light angle. Generally a downlight should be 60 degree spread. some are as narrow as 20 degrees.
Newer bulbs are dimmable, most are not. etc

 

[Haldex]

I love them, they dont give off any heat, perfect for summer.

 

[grok]

I saw somewhere on a pamphlet Eskom will rebate you for replacing your lights with LED's.

Google turns up something but I see it's only for businesses. http://www.greenlivingtips.co.za/led-lighting/eskom-offers-businesses-rebate-for-led-lighting/