menu icon
Fixed-rate plans Regulated rates
Select Service Location Select service location
Login
Shop now
Select Service Location Select service location
Pay your bill Log in
Get it and forget it 7.77 promo banner

Guaranteed low rates with our Alberta natural gas and electricity plans.

Enjoy this fixed electricity rate until July 31, 2024, followed by a low rate of 10.59¢/kWh!*

 

View offer
Young African American male bringing food to a table of young women

Our energy plans for your business are not one-size-fits-all.

Check out our energy plans for restaurants and learn how to make your business more energy efficient. 

 

Learn how

Your go-to resource for all things energy related in Alberta.

Want to know more about your energy options? Looking for ways to save on energy usage? We're here to help you make an educated decision.

 

Visit our learning centre

Sign up for Auto Pay

Set up Auto Pay to avoid missing a payment and late fees.

Log in to sign up
Skip to main content

LED vs. incandescent Christmas lights: which is better?

Updated on October 11, 2023

3-minute read

LED vs. incandescent Christmas lights: which is better?

Updated on October 11, 2023

3-minute read

Are you planning to light up your home in Alberta for the holidays? If you are wondering whether switching to LED holiday lights is worth it, we've compiled a detailed comparison between LED and incandescent string lights to help you decide.

House exterior covered in Christmas lights
House exterior covered in Christmas lights
House exterior covered in Christmas lights

Find out how to significantly reduce your electricity costs during the holiday season by choosing the right light.

Key considerations LED lights Incandescent lights
Energy efficiency  LED lights are highly energy-efficient and use up to 80-90% less energy than incandescent lights. Incandescent lights are less energy-efficient and require more electricity, making them more expensive to run especially for larger displays.
Lifespan LED lights have a longer lifespan. It can last up to 25,000 hours or more, which means it can be used for several holiday seasons without needing replacement. Incandescent bulbs have a shorter lifespan, typically lasting only 1,000 to 2,000 hours, which may require more frequent replacements.
Cost While the upfront cost of LED lights is higher than incandescent lights, the energy savings and longer lifespan offset the higher purchase price over time. Incandescent lights are much cheaper to purchase but the operational cost over time outweighs the initial savings.
Brightness and colour options LED lights are available in a wide range of colours and can produce vibrant, intense colours. They are also known for their consistent brightness and can be dimmed or adjusted. Incandescent lights provide a warm, traditional holiday glow and come in various colours. However, it may not be as bright and tend to fade over time.
Safety LED lights emit very little heat, reducing the risk of fire hazards. They are cool to the touch, making them safer, especially when used on trees and around flammable materials. Incandescent lights can become hot during operation, increasing the risk of fire if they come into contact with dry or flammable materials. Caution is needed when using them.
Environmental impact LED lights are more environmentally friendly because they use less energy and are not made from hazardous materials like lead and mercury. Incandescent lights have a higher environmental impact due to their higher energy consumption and the materials used to make it.
Smart home features Permanent LED lights can be conveniently controlled on a mobile app, allowing you to easily customize your dream light show. Not applicable

Even though LED Christmas lights are more expensive to buy, it is still the clear winner as they are more energy-efficient, longer-lasting, have a lower environmental impact, and can be used all year round. Also, by having your permanent LED lights installed professionally, you'll be able to stay off steep rooftops and ladders. Your knees and back will thank you for it!

Incandescent lights may seem more affordable initially but are not as safe and end up costing more over time due to higher energy consumption and shorter lifespan. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your priorities, budget, and environmental concerns.

LED vs. incandescent Christmas lights: which is better?

Related Articles

Explore the learning centre hub

Select a category to find articles for topics that interest you. 

Choose a category

You may also like...