LED Lifespan Calculator
Find out exactly how long your LED bulbs will last based on your usage patterns. Plan ahead and never be caught in the dark.
1LED Bulb Details
2Estimated Lifespan
13.7
years
Replacement Due
September 2039
Total Months
165 months
10-Year Cost Analysis
1
Replacements
$8
Total Cost
$1
Per Year
Pro Tip
LED lifespan is affected by heat and power fluctuations. Using quality fixtures with good ventilation can extend bulb life by up to 30%.
Understanding LED Lifespan Ratings
LED manufacturers rate bulb lifespan in hours - typically ranging from 15,000 to 50,000 hours. But what does that actually mean in years? It depends entirely on how often you use them.
LED Quality Tiers Explained
| Quality Tier | Rated Hours | At 5 hrs/day | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | 15,000 hrs | ~8 years | $2-5 |
| Standard | 25,000 hrs | ~13 years | $5-10 |
| Quality | 35,000 hrs | ~19 years | $10-15 |
| Premium | 50,000 hrs | ~27 years | $15-25 |
Factors That Affect LED Lifespan
Heat Management
Enclosed fixtures trap heat and can reduce lifespan by 25-50%. Use "enclosed fixture rated" LEDs when needed.
Voltage Fluctuations
Power surges damage LED drivers. Consider surge protectors for valuable lighting investments.
On/Off Cycling
Unlike CFLs, LEDs handle frequent switching well. This has minimal impact on lifespan.
Dimmer Compatibility
Using non-compatible dimmers causes flickering and premature failure. Always check compatibility.
LED vs Other Bulb Lifespans
LED: 15,000-50,000 hours
The longest-lasting option. Up to 25x longer than incandescent bulbs.
- 2
CFL: 8,000-15,000 hours
Decent lifespan but contains mercury and takes time to warm up.
- 3
Halogen: 2,000-4,000 hours
Short lifespan and runs extremely hot. Being phased out in many regions.
- 4
Incandescent: 750-2,000 hours
The shortest lifespan. 90% of energy wasted as heat.