This type of lighting is more energy-efficient, has a longer lifespan, and is very durable. But did you know that there are also advantages of using this lighting in the classroom? Schools that have upgraded to LED lighting often see improvements in academic performance among students. 

So, why is LED lighting better than other artificial lighting such as fluorescent lighting? Let’s find out.
 

1. Increased Student Focus and Performance:

Eye strain, trouble reading, and the inability to see the board are all examples of problems students face when there is poor lighting in the classroom. Students also often find it difficult to concentrate when dealing with a poorly lit classroom. 

LED lighting can increase productivity, participation, and learning when compared to incandescent or CFL bulbs. Because of this, students who learn with LED classroom lighting tend to perform better than those who learn under fluorescent lighting. 

LED lighting is designed to suit students’ educational requirements throughout the day. Teachers have the ability to control the colour, temperature, and dimming capability of the light. This can help students concentrate in class and focus better on their work. 

Studies have shown that cooler temperatures (4000K-5000K) can help with concentration, which in turn can lead to other educational benefits such as improved memory recall and fuller information comprehension. Those who learn under fluorescent lights, on the other hand, tend to be sleepier and are less concentrated, leading to poorer grades.
 

2. Better Quality Light:

When reviewing lighting systems, the quality of light in the classroom is an important element to consider. Poor lighting in the classroom means students might be unable to see the study material. They may also find it difficult to concentrate or have difficulty navigating the school itself. 

LED technology provides consistent lighting performance and does not cause glare or flickering that can negatively impact students and teachers. 

Using LED lighting also improves light direction. More illumination on working surfaces is achieved with LED’s ability to provide fully directional downlighting. Low illuminance of light in the classroom has been linked to slower reading, reduced concentration, poor posture, and long-term weakened vision.
 

3. Better Sleep:

Our circadian rhythm is a natural, internal process that follows a 24-hour cycle. It determines when we should wake up and go to bed. 

According to a recent study, lighting that mimics day-lighting can improve cognitive performance in students and assist with changes in the students' circadian rhythms.

Students' sleep-wake cycle can be disrupted if they are exposed to light that doesn’t match this natural rhythm on a regular basis.  

Sunlight and LED lighting provide full-spectrum light, which triggers our circadian rhythm by hormonal response. This is important for mental cognition.
 

4. Guaranteed Energy Reductions & Savings:

LED light bulbs are easily recyclable and free from mercury, making them more environmentally friendly. They are also more energy-efficient than other lighting solutions on the market. Energy reductions can be achieved between 50-80% by switching from traditional lighting to LED.

Sensors and timers can be added to the lighting system to ensure energy isn’t wasted when classrooms are empty or the school is closed. LED bulbs have a much longer lifespan than traditional bulbs (50,000+ hrs), reducing the need for costly maintenance. 

Schools are often confronted with low budgets and are constantly faced with the dilemma of finding ways to cut costs. Switching to LED lighting can significantly cut energy and maintenance costs, allowing schools to allocate their budget to more important resources.  Thousands or even tens of thousands of euros can be saved by schools each year by switching to LED.
 

5. Health Benefits:

Not only do LED bulbs lead to improved performance, better quality light, and energy reductions, but there are also many health benefits of LED lighting. 
 
One of the main reasons schools are now choosing LED lights is that these lighting systems don’t contain harmful contaminants. Some fluorescent lights may contain mercury and PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls) which can cause long-term side effects if exposed. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), PCBs are organic pollutants that can harm the environment. High levels of the substance can also cause harm to humans.
 
These lights also have reduced glare and flicker. Teachers often find students squinting or turning their heads in an awkward position trying to see the board when there’s a glare. This can result in headaches and eye strain. Flickering lights not only lead to discomfort and irritation, but they can also trigger more serious issues such as epilepsy. 
 
If you’re interested to find out more about how LED lighting can benefit your school and classroom, contact us today!