NALMCO Certified Apprentice Lighting Technician (CALT) Practice Exam

Which of the following may be considered an advantage of a LED lighting system compared to a conventional HID lighting system?

1. Initial System Install Cost

2. Overall system wattage

3. Warm up and reset time

4. Available color temperature(s)

The correct answer is: Initial System Install Cost

While the initial system install cost might seem like a significant advantage of LED systems, it's essential to consider the broader context of LED technology compared to HID systems. The primary advantage that stands out is the overall energy efficiency and reduced wattage consumption of LED systems, which can lead to savings in electricity costs over time and lower overall operational costs. LED lights typically consume much less power than HID lighting for the same light output, making them more sustainable and cost-effective in the long term. Additionally, LEDs turn on instantly and do not require warm-up time, which enhances their usability in situations where immediate lighting is crucial. Furthermore, LEDs offer a wider range of color temperatures, providing flexibility in lighting design that HID systems may not match. While initial costs can be higher for LED installations, the long-term benefits and energy savings are why the comparison often favors LEDs in other aspects. Therefore, total system efficiency, including all usage factors and costs over time, points to significant advantages in favor of LED technology.