When you are ready to make the commitment to indoor growing, an investment in Led grow lights and LED growing systems gives back over time. Granted, the initial costs are considerable compared to traditional HPS lighting systems, but the advantages are well worth the investment if your commitment is serious enough.
Consider that LED grow lights and LED growing systems can last up to 20 years, as long as 10 times longer than traditional lighting systems. Most fluorescent lights have to be replaced every year or so. LED lights can literally last a lifetime. Just do the math. If you plan to grow indoors long enough, choosing LED can save you money.
The savings LEDs will bring to your electric bill also make it a cheaper investment over time. LEDs are 85 percent more effective and have virtually no carbon footprint. They are no more detectable than a small air conditioner or other household appliance. This is not only good for your electric bill, but good for the earth as well.
As gardeners, we need to be as sustainable as possible. LEDs hardly use any fossil fuels, so we get the most food possible for the electricity we use.
LEDs are also better for the earth as they contain no mercury that can leak into the water supply. Traditional fluorescent lights can contaminate well water if not disposed of properly.
LEDs produce virtually no heat, as there is no heating element. That means you can place the lights near the plants without harming them to heat exposure or drying out the soil. Traditional fluorescent lights can become quite hot, not only damaging your plants but also creating a fire hazard.
The potential risks of fire that fluorescents pose make LEDs a more safer option. HPS lights require heavy ballasts and can be difficult to mount, and electrical installation may require professional help. LED lights are installed simply, as easy as hanging the light and plugging it in.
It’s only a question of investment. Are your indoor gardening needs worth the $60 to $500 investment? If you have a simple operation, HPS bulbs might suffice much more cheaply. If you plan on using the lights for several years, however, LED may be the more cost effective route, as they won’t need replaced and will use a minimal amount of electricity. Do your indoor growing needs warrant the starting costs of LED technology?
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