Fluorescent to LED Conversion Calculator

Energy Savings Formula:

\[ \text{Savings} = \frac{(W_{\text{fluor}} - W_{\text{LED}}) \times \text{Hours} \times \text{Rate}}{1000} \]

Fluorescent Wattage:

watts

LED Wattage:

watts

Usage Hours:

hours

Electricity Rate:

$/kWh

Energy Savings ($):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

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1. What is a Fluorescent to LED Conversion Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the cost savings when replacing fluorescent lighting with LED lighting based on power consumption and usage patterns.

Purpose: It helps homeowners and businesses evaluate the financial benefits of upgrading to energy-efficient LED lighting.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \text{Savings} = \frac{(W_{\text{fluor}} - W_{\text{LED}}) \times \text{Hours} \times \text{Rate}}{1000} \]

Where:

$ \text{Savings} $ — Cost savings in dollars
$ W_{\text{fluor}} $ — Power consumption of fluorescent lights (watts)
$ W_{\text{LED}} $ — Power consumption of LED lights (watts)
$ \text{Hours} $ — Usage time (hours)
$ \text{Rate} $ — Electricity cost (dollars per kilowatt-hour)

Explanation: The calculator determines the power difference between the two lighting types, multiplies by usage time and electricity rate, then converts to dollars.

3. Importance of LED Conversion

Details: LED lighting typically uses 50-80% less energy than fluorescent lighting, lasts longer, and provides better light quality.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the wattage of your current fluorescent lights, the wattage of the LED replacements, daily usage hours, and your electricity rate (default $0.12/kWh).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate are the savings estimates?
A: Estimates are based on the inputs provided. Actual savings may vary depending on specific bulb models and usage patterns.

Q2: What's a typical fluorescent wattage?
A: A standard 4-foot T8 fluorescent tube uses about 32 watts, while equivalent LED tubes use about 15-18 watts.

Q3: Should I include the ballast wattage for fluorescents?
A: Yes, include the total system wattage (bulb + ballast). Electronic ballasts add about 2-4 watts, while magnetic ballasts add more.

Q4: How do I find my electricity rate?
A: Check your utility bill for the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh). The national average is about $0.12-$0.15/kWh.

Q5: Do LEDs really last longer than fluorescents?
A: Yes, quality LEDs typically last 2-4 times longer than fluorescent tubes (50,000 vs. 15,000-30,000 hours).