Note: This article originally appeared in BD+C's April 2013 AIA/CES course, "Advanced Controls and Exterior Tactics for Better Illumination." This free class is available on BD+C University.
“We don’t specify LEDs,” says Avraham Mor of Lightswitch Architectural. “We specify solid-state luminaires and lamps (SSL) that use LEDs.”
Mor’s correction of this common misuse of the term “LED” is significant, because a problem associated with SSL is often just a problem with a specific LED product. “SSL is the only source to use when trying to meet energy reduction goals while maintaining the look and feel we typically work toward,” he says. “We have had great success, but it takes a great designer and client to manage the entire process.”
In fact, many complaints about LEDs are often attributable to the SSL, and vice versa, leading to complaints about a technology that sometimes fails to meet expectations. But SSL, as Mor says, is really the future of energy reduction; with careful design and specification, it is also the present.
PNNL’s Naomi Miller points to the myriad benefits of LED technology: “Higher lumens-per-watt than fluorescent, good lumen maintenance over time (in some cases better than fluorescent), long life compared to CFL or metal halide, and excellent color compared to almost any conventional light source.” She adds that the small form factors mean LEDs are richly accommodating, allowing designers enormous creative flexibility with space, configuration, and color.
Lumen Architecture’s Nelson Jenkins says blanket substitutions aren’t necessarily a good strategy, however: “Not all LED products match the quality of the other sources we specify.” In addition, price is still an issue. “We find that while the cost of LEDs has come down, they tend to be more expensive than, for instance, a halogen version. But the up-front cost for LEDs can often be offset by the energy savings and reduced maintenance.” Jenkins suggests explaining to clients that SSL will require re-lamping less often—an especially strong selling point in vaulted spaces or exterior applications.
Ultimately, the SSL category is a work-in-progress, not a panacea. “LED is certainly very popular, and many designs would not be possible without it,” The Lighting Practice’s Stephen Hoppe says, referring to exterior applications. “But ceramic metal halide also provides great color rendition and warmth and can often be as efficient as LED.”
James Benya of the California Lighting Technology Center, UC-Davis, has concerns about how codes and standards may be affecting the market for products and systems, particularly LEDs. He hopes to see energy codes and sustainable building standards that do not promote particular technologies.
“The current trend shows a rush to use LEDs,” warns Howard Brandston, founder of Brandston Partnership. “One must determine if LED is the right choice after sifting through the qualities of all the alternate products. There is no change in the design process,” he concludes, “just an additional product to select from.”
Related Stories
| Feb 20, 2012
Comment period for update to USGBC's LEED Green Building Program now open
This third draft of LEED has been refined to address technical stringency and rigor, measurement and performance tools, and an enhanced user experience.
| Feb 20, 2012
Sto Corp. announces new technical director for Canada
Edgar will have full responsibility of specifications, details, website technical content, testing and approvals, and will support the Canada sales team.
| Feb 20, 2012
GAF introduces web portal for architects and specifiers
The new portal offers a clean look with minimal clutter to make it easier to find the technical information and product data that architects need.
| Feb 20, 2012
All Steel names Breagy director of metro New York
Breagy is responsible for overseeing this region’s sales team while strategically coordinating the sales efforts of Allsteel dealers and representatives in the tri-state area.
| Feb 17, 2012
Tremco Inc. headquarters achieves LEED Gold certification
Changes were so extensive that the certification is for new construction and not for renovation; officially, the building is LEED-NC.
| Feb 17, 2012
MacInnis joins Gilbane board of directors
MacInnis is the chairman and recently retired CEO of Connecticut-based EMCOR Group, Inc.
| Feb 16, 2012
Gain greater agility and profitability with ArchiCAD BIM software
White paper was written with the sole purpose of providing accurate, reliable information about critical issues related to BIM and what ArchiCAD with advanced technology such as the GRAPHISOFT BIM Server provide as an answer to address these issues.
| Feb 16, 2012
TLC Engineering for Architecture opens Chattanooga office
TLC Engineering for Architecture provides mechanical, electrical, structural, plumbing, fire protection, communication, technology, LEED, commissioning and energy auditing services.
| Feb 16, 2012
Summit Design + Build begins build-out for Emmi Solutions in Chicago
The new headquarters will total 20,455 sq. ft. and feature a loft-style space with exposed masonry and mechanical systems, 15 foot clear ceilings, two large rooftop skylights and private offices with full glass partition walls.