COSTS BENEFITS

VERSUS

In general, the greatest difference between contemporary fluorescent lighting and LEDs comes down to this: Fluorescent bulbs and fixtures are cheaper to purchase, but they use more energy and cost more to run. LED bulbs cost significantly more to purchase, but they produce much higher savings over time.

Which options are best for your barn depend on how much lighting you need, what type of lights you use and how often you use them. “In smaller fixtures, like stall lights, the LEDs may provide a savings of 10 to 20 percent,” says Tracy. “The medium fixtures---the four-foot fixtures like aisle lights, wash stall fixtures, etc.---are probably in the 40 to 50 percent range of savings. When you get to the arena lights, the replacements for high bay lights, it’s not as significant.