New APS Online Calculator Shows Cost Savings of Traditional Holiday Lights Compared to LEDs

December 3, 2008

This holiday season, consumers looking for ways to save money might be surprised at how much of a difference switching from traditional holiday lights to LED lights can make.  

Arizona Public Service Company has a new, interactive online calculator at www.aps.com/LED that lets people compare the energy costs of popular holiday lights. The feature is quick and easy to use, and the benefits can save consumers up to hundreds of dollars this December alone. 

The calculator displays three common types of holiday bulbs: large-traditional, mini-traditional and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Consumers can simply select a photo of each bulb type, enter the number of 25- 50- or 100-bulb strings they would like to compare, and the number of hours per day the lights will be used.

Instantaneously, the energy costs and savings offered by switching to LEDs pop up at the bottom of the page. A random comparison using the calculator, illustrates the costs and savings:

"It's clear that the more lights you have, the higher your costs will be, but by switching to LEDs, the savings will also increase dramatically," said Donald Case, aps.com Web manager. "These lights are very efficient, using up to 90 percent less energy than traditional bulbs, and can help you save on your energy costs this season."

Case says there are other reasons to use LED strings, too. They:

• Are safer, as they burn cooler than standard lights
• Draw much less power, many strands can be strung together without overloading
• Last more than 25,000 hours; many times longer than traditional bulbs
• Continue working when one bulb burns out
• Offer vibrant colors and styles

And, although the LED lights cost slightly more than traditional bulbs, they quickly pay for themselves when the energy costs and their long-life are factored in.

While LEDs are a great technology to improve the efficiency of your holiday lights, until LED technology advances, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) offer the most cost-effective option for most home lighting needs. APS has partnered with local retailers to offer discounts on compact fluorescent lighting. To learn more about the benefits of CFL lighting, and to find a retailer in your area,  visit aps.com.

APS, Arizona's largest and longest-serving electric utility, serves about 1.1 million customers in 11 of the state's 15 counties. In 2008, APS won its second Edison Award in recognition of innovative leadership and operational excellence in the electric industry. Given annually by the Edison Electric Institute, the Edison Award is considered the industry's most prestigious honor. With headquarters in Phoenix, APS is the principal subsidiary of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. (NYSE: PNW).

Maria Arellano
Office: (602) 250-3155
Cell: (602) 402-3530