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Use LEDs for RV, Boat, and Home Lighting
 A Tutorial from Sam Penny, (c) 2008


An International Energy Agency (IEA) study finds that 19% of global electricity generation is taken for lighting - that's more than is produced by hydro or nuclear stations, and about the same that's produced from natural gas. A global switch to efficient lighting systems could trim the world's electricity bill by nearly one-tenth.

The inefficient lighting systems that we must replace for this savings include

Incandescent bulbs
Halogen bulbs
Low-efficiency fluorescent tubes
High-loss "ballasts" for fluorescent tubes
 High-loss halogen transformers
Mercury discharge lamps (often used in street lighting)
Low-efficiency vehicle lighting
Fuel-based lighting in developing countries


In most RVs and boats, lighting takes 50% or more of the electricity used. The four most inefficient systems are commonly found in RVs and boats.

The "energy saving" compact fluorescent fixtures now available are from 3 to 4 times more efficient than incandescent bulbs and low-efficiency fluorescent tubes. That is good, but more is needed.

White Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are 5 to 7 times more efficient, and manufacturers are aiming for 16 times the efficiency. LEDs are the lighting of the future.

It is prudent to start now on the conversion to LED lighting. Where better to start than in your RV or boat where electrical power can be so scarce and expensive when you need it the most. And if you depend on the sun for your power, LEDs WILL make the difference between staying out or finding more power.


For more information and choices, visit the following links.

What Is An LED?
Why Use LED Lighting?
Recommended LED Products
 LED Applications