LED, or light-emitting diode, lights save money and energy. Compared to incandescent bulbs, LED lights bulbs are more energy efficient, using up to 90 percent less power, and last much longer. The best white LEDS have a useful life of about 35,000 hours, according to the Department of Energy. And, unlike incandescent string lights, when one bulb burns out, the others stay lit. LED light bulbs are also safer, since the epoxy plastic that encapsulates the bulbs stays cool to the touch.
The following LED lights are available from online retailers.
GE StayBright LED Christmas String Lights
Available for online ordering in early fall 2009 at Kmart.com, the GE StayBright LED Energy-Saving Light String features 25 white lights on a 13-foot cord with 12 feet of lighted length (see photo below). The bulbs are the traditional, larger holiday style with diamond cut reflectors on the bulb covering. GE claims users can connect up to 25 sets end-to-end. Price: $9.99 per strand. Shipping varies.
LED Rope Lights for Christmas
Rope lights are mini-lights in a PVC enclosure, which result in clean, straight or curved outlines when hung. Various styles and colors of LED rope lights are sold at 1000bulbs.com, such as the LED Multi-Color, Multi-Function Round Rope Light pictured below. The 12-foot-long strand of lights can be used indoors and outdoors and comes with an eight-function controller. Price: $21.31 per strand. Standard shipping for most products on the site is $9.93.
Christmas Tree with Pre-Strung LED Lights
Balsamhill.com sells beautiful, and pricey, artificial trees online and now gives buyers the option to choose LED lights on its pre-lit trees. One example is the BH Noble Fir, seen in the photo below, which features silver-green needles and “Candlelight LED” lights on trees in the following heights: 5’5”, 6’5”, 7’5’, and 9’. The LED lights emit a warm yellow-ish glow. Price: from $449 to $1,189. Shipping is free.
LED Icicle Christmas Lights
The 70 LED Winter/Pure White Icicle Light Set from Christmaslightsetc.com has 70 mini-lights on a 7-foot, 2-inch string. There are six inches between drops, which dangle 11, 15, and 18 inches from the main strand. Price: $21.15 per strand. Shipping varies.
Solar LED Christmas Lights
Energy sipping LED bulbs powered by a solar panel equals an eco-friendly holiday display. The 50 White Solar LED String Lights from Homedepot.com let homeowners decorate trees and fences far away from any electrical outlet. A six-foot lead wire attaches to the 50-light strand, allowing users to place the solar panel in the best sun-soaking spot. Three modes: flashing, solid, and off. Price: $17.95 each. Shipping varies.
Buy LED Christmas Lights in Any Style
Mini-lights, rope lights, icicle lights, solar powered: LED lights now come in any style shape and a wide range of colors. Shop the many outlets online to find the right lights for any décor.
Judith Zwolak - Judy is a mother of two and a freelance writer living in South Dakota. Raised by notoriously frugal parents, she comes by her family ...
