Atlas Shrugged Watch

Fluorescent Lighting Dangers – Why LED Lights Are the Better Choice

Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs) along with more traditional fluorescent lamps are now being aggressively marketed as environmentally friendly due to their reduced electricity consumption. Indeed, widespread replacement of incandescent bulbs with CFLs will greatly reduce electricity demand; however, there are safety issues that ultimately contribute to making LED lighting the superior choice. Understanding fluorescent lighting risks can help ensure that fluorescent light bulbs are used and disposed of safely while explaining why LED lighting is the safest and most eco-friendly lighting choice in the long run.

Mercury

The most commonly cited fluorescent lighting hazard is mercury. Fluorescent and CFL bulbs contain a small amount of mercury and are identified with the elemental symbol Hg. When these bulbs are cold, some of the mercury in the lamp is in liquid form, but while the lamp is operating or when the lamp is hot, most of the mercury is in a gaseous or vapor form.

Mercury vapor is extremely toxic. Even in liquid form, contact with mercury is considered life-threatening or a “severe” risk to health. Even very small doses of mercury can cause severe respiratory tract damage, brain damage, kidney damage, central nervous system damage, and many other serious medical conditions.

CFLs average less than 4 milligrams of mercury, about the amount that would cover the tip of a ballpoint pen. By comparison, older thermometers contain about 500 milligrams, an amount equal to the mercury in 125 or more CFLs. Although the amount of mercury in each fluorescent lamp is small, it is always important to avoid breaking fluorescent lamps, and used bulbs must be delivered to a hazardous waste handler. Never place fluorescent lamps in trash compactors or incinerators, since this will release the mercury and contaminate the surrounding area.

Disposed of improperly, mercury can contaminate buildings, landfills, lakes, animals, fish, birds, humans, crops and rivers. In the US, the EPA has ordered waste handlers to treat fluorescent lamps as hazardous waste. With such a classification, fluorescent lamps are not to be sent to landfills, but instead are to be sent to recycling centers that break the lamps under special conditions and safely recover the mercury. Up to 95 percent of the mercury contained in CFLs can be recovered if the bulbs are recycled properly.

Mercury-containing lamps generated by households and small businesses are not always subject to legal restrictions regarding their disposal. State laws vary and some states, such as California, Maine, New Hampshire, Minnesota, Vermont and Massachusetts, prohibit all mercury-containing lamps, including CFLs, from being discarded in the solid waste stream. In addition, many local ordinances require recycling of mercury-containing products, including lighting. It is best to check with your municipality to understand whether there are local requirements addressing mercury-containing waste disposal.

Because mercury will be released if a fluorescent lamp is broken, it is important to install fixtures in areas where the lamps are not likely to be broken. Fixtures in areas close to the ground or in areas with moving equipment should use metal or plastic shields to protect the lamp from being broken. If a fluorescent lamp breaks, there are numerous safety and cleanup issues which we discuss in more detail in the following section.

Breakage

Fluorescent lamps create several hazards if broken. Depending on the type, there may be a partial vacuum or the lamp may be under pressure. Breaking the glass can cause shrapnel injuries, along with the release of mercury and other hazardous compounds.

The biggest immediate injury threat from a broken lamp is from the phosphor-coated glass. If cut with fluorescent lamp glass, any phosphor that gets into the wound is likely to prevent blood clotting and will interfere with healing. Such injuries should be treated seriously and immediate medical attention should be obtained for people or pets that are cut. Medical personnel should be informed that the injuries were caused by a broken fluorescent lamp, and that mercury was present.

To minimize exposure to mercury vapor, EPA and other experts advise a few precautions. Children and pets should stay away from the area, and windows should be opened for at least 15 minutes so that vapors may disperse. Cleanup can be done by hand using disposable materials. Use rubber disposable gloves and scoop up the materials with stiff paper or cardboard. Use sticky tape to pick up small pieces and powder, clean the area with a damp paper towel, and dispose of the materials in an outside trash can. Never use a vacuum because this will only disperse the mercury vapor and leave particles trapped inside the cleaner bag.

Dimmers

Never use a CFL with a dimmer in the circuit (unless it is specifically made to work with dimmers), even if the dimmer is set at the maximum setting. Doing so places you at risk of fire and at the very least will dramatically shorten the life of the lamp and the dimmer. Also most photocells, motion sensors and electric timers are not designed to work with a CFL. Check with the manufacturer for the use of a CFL for these types of fixtures.

To use a CFL on a dimmer switch, you must buy a bulb that’s specifically made to work with dimmers (check the package). GE makes a dimming compact fluorescent light bulb (called the Energy Smart Dimming Spirals®) that is specially designed for use with dimming switches. I don’t recommend using regular compact fluorescent bulbs with dimming switches, since this can shorten bulb life. Using a regular compact fluorescent bulb with a dimmer will also nullify the bulb’s warranty.

Finally, if a CFL bulb “buzzing” when it is installed in a fixture that is controlled by a dimmer switch, this is an indication that you have the wrong type of CFL bulb installed.

Electrical

Any fluorescent fixture that uses lamps longer than 24″ or that is used outdoors or in a damp, wet, or high-humidity location must have an electrical ground for the fixture and ballast. All rapid-start and instant-start fluorescent fixtures must have an electrical ground in order to operate properly. Fixtures with longer lamps operate at higher voltages, with some fixtures having starting voltages across the lamp as high as 950 VAC. Voltages at this level represent a strong shock hazard and improperly grounded fixtures or direct contact with electrical connectors or other wiring can result in severe injury or death.

When servicing fluorescent fixtures and lamps, electrical power to the entire fixture should be disconnected. This is not always practical in situations where a large number of fixtures are controlled from the same power control (such as in open office areas). In these cases, insulating gloves and a nonmetallic ladder should be used if the fixtures must be serviced when power is present. This advice also applies when retrofitting a fluorescent fixture to mount LED tube lights.

Short-Wave Ultraviolet Light

A long-term hazard from fluorescent lighting is the shorter-wave ultraviolet (UV) light that escapes the lamp. No matter how well crafted, some short-wave ultraviolet light escapes from every fluorescent lamp made. Short-wave UV light is one of the damaging components of the suns rays that reach the surface of the Earth, which can directly damage organic tissue and trigger cancers. Short-wave UV light can also age or damage paper, fabrics and other materials.

Generally, fixtures with a plastic lens leak the smallest amount of UV light, mainly because most of the ultraviolet light gets absorbed in the plastic lens. Fluorescent lighting in museums, archival libraries and manufacturing “clean room” areas usually have UV-absorbing sheeting applied to the lamps or the fixture lens to eliminate all UV light. LED bulbs do not produce any UV light.

Flicker and Glare

Flicker and glare from fluorescent lights can also cause headaches and have been found to impact learning and ability to concentrate. Although humans cannot see fluorescent lights flicker, the sensory system in some individuals can somehow detect the flicker. Ever since fluorescent lighting was introduced in workplaces, there have been complaints about headaches, eye strain and general eye discomfort. These complaints have been associated with the light flicker from fluorescent lights. When compared to regular fluorescent lights with magnetic ballasts, the use of high frequency electronic ballasts fluorescent lights resulted in more than a 50% drop in complaints of eye strain and headaches. There tended to be fewer complaints of headaches among workers on higher floors compared to those closer to ground level; that is, workers exposed to more natural light experienced fewer health effects.

Long-term clinical studies that conclude fluorescent lighting in schools may be related to many academic and health problems. A 2006 study found that students in schools with natural light instead of fluorescent lighting had a 10% to 21% higher learning rate and higher test scores. Fluorescent lighting may trigger headaches, migraines and other physical symptoms. Many children have been mislabeled with learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, reading problems and dyslexia all because of students having to work under fluorescent lights. With cool-white fluorescent lighting, some students demonstrated hyperactivity, fatigue, irritability, and attention deficits.

Lamps operating on alternating current (AC) electric systems produce light flickering at a frequency of 120 Hertz (Hz, cycles per second), twice the power line frequency of 60 Hz (50 Hz in many countries outside North America). Essentially, the power is turning on and off 120 times a second (actually the voltage varies from +120 volts to -120 volts, 60 times or cycles a second and is at zero volts twice in one cycle). People cannot notice the flicker in fluorescent lights that have a flicker rate of 120 cycles per second (or 120 Hz).

Flicker is usually a potential problem only with lighting that require the use of ballasts, like fluorescent lights. Incandescent lights usually do not cause a flicker problem since the light filaments generally do not cool quickly enough (and make the light dimmer) during the “off” time as the voltage changes in the AC power line. New, energy-efficient electronic ballasts take the 60 Hz power and convert it to voltages at a much higher frequency. The resulting flicker frequency is so high that the human eye cannot detect any fluctuation in the light intensity – essentially flicker-free. An added benefit is that electronic ballasts produce less hum than that emitted by other kinds of ballasts.

Manufacturers and regulators have taken steps to eliminate this problem with LED lights. In the US, the new Energy Star criteria for integrated LED replacement lamps include a requirement for 150 Hz operation (now being challenged by manufacturers who cite studies that 120 Hz is sufficient). The majority of low-frequency AC LED systems already operate in the rectified mode, which effectively doubles the luminous modulation frequency to 120Hz for 60Hz mains in the US. Despite many attempts, laboratory investigations have not found statistically significant evidence of luminous modulation with frequencies over 100Hz on human performance, health, or comfort.

For practical advice about LED lights, including everything you ever wanted to know about LED tube lights, please visit ledtubelights.org and for objective reviews of LED lighting products, please visit LED Light Reviews.

About the Author

James is a small business owner who enjoys sharing the lessons he has learned retrofitting his office and home with energy-efficient LED lighting. In fact, he likes LED lights so much, that he has become sort of an LED lighting evangelist. For practical advice about LED lights, including everything you ever wanted to know about LED tube lights, please visit ledtubelights.org.

Color Changing RGB LED Light Bulbs

Energy Save E27 5.04W 84LED 3528 SMD Screw Spot Pure White Lamp Light Bulb 220V $8.58

2 Car Auto H1 13 LED SMD Bulb Head Light Lamp 12V White $1.00

1157 T25 BAY15D 13 LED White Tail Stop Signal Car Light Bulb Lamp 2 Pcs $12.63

3W White 3 LED Yard Wall Outdoor Flood Light Lamp 12V $14.39

NEW MR 16 MR16 12V 60 LED WHITE SPOT LIGHT BULB LAMP $3.89

30 Red 2x5x7mm LED Lamp Bulb Light Free Resistors $0.99

T5 74 White LED Wedge Light Bulbs Dashboard Lamp 4 Pcs for Car $2.97

13 White Light LEDs Flex USB Laptop PC Reading Lamp $9.15

CAR AUTO BICYCLE LIGHT LAMP LED FLASH BLINK MAST BLUE $3.99

77″ Vintage Style Solar Garden Lamp Post With 4 LED light – Adjustable Height $65.99

2009-2011 FORD F150 F-150 XL XLT LARIAT FX4 STX LED SMOKED LENS TAIL LIGHT LAMPS $184.99

Gu10 4X1W LED Lamp Light Bulb Warm White 85-265V 4W $3.01

1x E27 3x2W CREE LED Spot Light Bulb Lamp WHOLESALE 85-265V $0.99

White 1.72″ 42mm 12-SMD-1210 578 211-2 212-2 214-2 LED Dome Lights Bulbs $12.99

White 1.72″ 42mm 9-SMD-3020 578 211-2 212-2 214-2 LED Dome Lights Bulbs $9.99

35W 12V&24V Square LED WORK LIGHT 4WD 4×4 Flood Car Lamp Truck Rock Light 2800Lm $110.49

NEW 12-24V Square Warehouse Work Light LED Flood Lamp Indoor Outdoor -35W 2800Lm $110.49

2xCar H10 9145 9005 HB3 18 SMD 5050 LED Bulb Daytime Running Fog Light Lamp $4.49

Car Strip Light SMD Lamp White 1M 60 LED 12V Strip Flexible Waterproof 3M Glue $8.98

50pcs 3mm Red Round Diffused Red Lens LED Light Lamp 5000mcd For DIY $1.78

94-99 CHEVY TAHOE/SUBURBAN RED LED TAIL LIGHT LAMP L+R $94.99

LED Clip Booklight Book Reading Map Night Light Lamp $1.00

3W LED GU10 Spot Lamp White Light Brightness Energy Saving Bulb 300LM 85V-250V $4.99

Auto Car Interior Dome Multicolor LED Roof Lamp Light $18.24

Waterproof Blue 3528 SMD 300 LED Light 5M Flexible Strip Lamp 12V 2A Car Auto $9.10

E14 Warm White 60 LED Spot Light Bulb Spotlight Lamp $5.79

CAR AUTO BICYCLE LIGHT LAMP LED FLASH BLINK MAST GREEN $3.99

3 X LED Drawer Kitchen Closet Car Lighting Bulbs Lamps $1.00

99-06 GMC SIERRA PICKUP CLEAR FULL LED 3RD BRAKE LIGHT TAIL LAMP $36.95

2X 13 LED SMD T10 W5W White Car Side Light Bulb Lamp $1.00

Hog Wild Faucet Light $2.47 Add a colorful light stream to any faucet! Temperature Controlled Faucet Light changes color based upon the water temperature. Its blue when the water is cold or simply turned on. When the temperature reaches 89F, it changes to red, alerting you that the water is getting hot! Fun and functional, its ideal for the kids bathroom and a smart gift for older people, too! Works on most USA faucets and i…

Maverick GL-03 Cordless LED Grill Light $22.99 Maverick GL03 Maverick Cordless Led Grill Light. This handy portable light features 4 brilliant LED bulbs which last 50,000 hours. Uses just 3 AA batteries (included) to provide convenient lighting anywhere. Energy efficient…

Neon Parrot w/Margarita Sign $45.99 17″ x 9″ Neon Parrot w/Margarita Sign. Its hard to tell but this is a 4 color neon (green eye). These come with a base that they sit on but are also wall mountable. Makes a great addition to any home and great inexpensive decoration for anything. These also make great gifts. Check out our wide selection of other neons….

100 Hymns of the Old Country Church [4cd's + 2dvd BOX Set] I Would Not Be Denied Down By The Riverside Mine Eyes Have Seen The Glory Stand Up For Jesus Glory To His Name Praise My Soul The King Of Heaven I Love To Tell The Story His Eye Is On The Sparrow Standing On The Promises Shall We Gather At the River Satisfied Where The Soul Never Dies Count Your Blessings Near The Cross The Old Account Was Settled Long Ago Let the Lower Lights Be Burning Wonderful…

LED Light Bulb, 900 Lumen, Warm White, 9 Watt (65W Replacement), Clearance Sale Clearance Item – Greatly Reduced Price – See Details Below At 100 lumens per watt, it is one of the most efficient LED bulbs on the market. At 900 lumens, it will replace up to a 65 Watt incandescent bulb in nearly all fixtures, and a 75 Watt bulb in down-light fixtures. This bulb will pay for itself in energy savings in six months when compared to a 65 Watt incandescent used eight hours a day a…

GE 13-Watt Energy SmartTM – 8 Pack – 60 watt replacement $7.95 GE 13-Watt Energy SmartTM – 8 Pack – 60 watt replacement…

Third Generation Dr Mom Slimline Stainless LED Pocket Otoscope now includes True View Full Spectrum LED and Pocket Clip $26.92 Prepare to be amazed by how well this otoscope works. We also sell very nice Professional otoscopes on Amazon and none work as well as this fellow. Same magnification and focal length as the W/A so what you see is just as clear if not clearer due to the very bright led light. Best part about this otoscope is the fact the LED light contains no fragile filament like incandescent bulbs. We tried maki…

Mini Sound Activation Starry Effects Laser Star Projector $21.99 After being connected with Power and switched on,The Red and Green Laser Will emit numbers of Stars, Which Make You Feel Like Walking in The Sky. The Effect of the stars can Rotate Automatically (Speed Adjustable). When being Switched to Voice Activated Mode (Controlled by The Music Speed and Volume), It will Give Users a Fantastic and Moving Atmosphere. Voice Controlled Strobe: The Strobe Spee…

Belkin Conserve Socket F7C009q Energy-Saving Outlet $9.66 Conserve Socket Power Timer. Many of the electronics and appliances around your home use electricity even when they’re not in use wasting energy and driving up your electric bill. The Conserve Socket Power Timer automatically shuts off power (including standby power) to your electronics and appliances after a time interval you select to help you save energy. Choose between three settings: 30 minut…

ViewSonic PJD5123 SVGA DLP Projector 120Hz/3D Ready, 2700 Lumens, 3000:1 DCR $327.99 ViewSonic’s PJD5123 is a high-performance SVGA 800×600 DLP projector with 2,700 ANSI lumens and 3000:1 contrast. This projector supports PC and HD video signals and projects clear, bright images in most lighting conditions. With a new slim design at only 3.2 inches height, making it ideal for moving from room to room on the campus or throughout the office. Texas Instruments´ BrilliantColorâ…

Berenice LED Table Lamp by Luceplan $531 The Luceplan Berenice LED Table Lamp provides a warm white light that helps eyes remain stress-free throughout the workday. Designed by Alberto Meda and Paolo Rizzatto, the Berenice LED Table Lamp features a highly efficient, energy-saving LED design with excellent adjustability. Luceplan, an Italian company, has a long history of LED pioneering research and development that brought to market many award winning lighting designs. Today, environmentally compatible light quality, beauty and effectiveness are taking Luceplan to new innovative heights. The Luceplan Berenice LED Table Lamp is available with the following: Details:Die-cast magnesium shadeClear glass diffuserDie-cast round aluminum baseDie-cast aluminum armAdjustable shade and armOn/off toggle switch on shadeLow voltage current reaches the light source through its rods without electric wiringEnergy efficientUL ListedDesigned by Alberto Meda and Paolo RizzattoOptions:Finish: Aluminum, or Black.Lighting: One 10 Watt 120 Volt Warm White LED lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within two business days. Dimensions: Arm: Length 17 In. Diffuser: Diameter 4 In., Height 1.8 In. Base: Diameter 6 In., Height 2.4 In. Fixture: Reach Adjustable to 34 In.

LED Desk Lamp No. 70774 by Kichler $158 A slim, classy table lamp, the Kichler LED Desk Lamp No. 70774 takes the relationship of glass and LED illumination to a new level. The lamp’s rocker switch and stunning glass composition makes late night reading a beautiful and relaxing experience. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler LED Desk Lamp No. 70774 is available with the following: Details:Bent Clear glass bodyOn-off rocker switchEnergy efficientUL ListedLighting: One 2.45 Watt 120 Volt LED lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 4.88 In., Height 15.13 In., Depth 8.13 In.

LED Desk Lamp No. 70775 by Kichler $158 The Kichler LED Desk Lamp No. 70775 features a bent smoke glass body, giving the lamp a sense of understated drama. Great for the bedroom or living room, this desk lamp is also professional enough for the office space. The lamp is controlled via a 3-way switch. Since 1938, Cleveland-based Kichler Lighting has created exceptional lighting in a variety of styles, finishes, colors and designs. With a diverse collection of indoor and outdoor lighting in classic and contemporary styles, Kichler Lighting always focuses on making home lighting that is both beautiful and functional. The Kichler LED Desk Lamp No. 70775 is available with the following: Details:Bent Smoke glass bodyOn/off 3-way switchEnergy efficientUL ListedLighting: One 2.45 Watt 120 Volt LED lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 3-5 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 5 In., Height 14.25 In., Depth 11.5 In.

Genesy LED Floor Lamp by Artemide $10515 An experiment in architecture, the Artemide Genesy LED Floor Lamp is rooted at the base, growing up and out just like a tree creating a canopy. The LED and halogen lamps are independently controlled via a touch sensor at the lamp’s center, and a no-dazzle diffuser allows for approachable lighting. Since 1959, Artemide has created a wide array of modern table lamps, floor lamps, wall sconces and suspensions. Technologically advanced, and with styles ranging from clean and refined to sculptural and avant garde, many Artemide designs–especially the Tolomeo and Tizio–have become icons of contemporary lighting design. The Artemide Genesy LED Floor Lamp is available with the following: Details:Made of injection-molded foam polyurethanePolished finishDirect LED light and indirect halogen light operated separately by two touch dimmers on the lampMade in ItalyDesigned by Zaha Hadid, 2009Options:Finish: Black, or White.Lighting: One 200 Watt 120 Volt Type T3 Halogen lamp (included), and a 5 Watt 120 Volt LED array (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 10-16 weeks. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 76.75 In., Width 48 In.

Symple LED Desk Lamp by Bulbrite $110 When it comes to having cool contemporary task lighting, it doesn’t get any simpler than this. The Bulbrite Symple LED Desk Lamp features an array of 56 bright white LEDs, the direction of their light adjustable at two points on the lamp. Added versatility comes in the form of a 5-step touch dimmer and USB port in the base. Since 1971, from its headquarters in New Jersey, Bulbrite manufactures and supplies an extensive line of innovative and award-winning light bulbs. Their line of energy efficient light source solutions, educational resources and outstanding service make Bulbrite the bulb supplier of choice for lighting professionals. The Bulbrite Symple LED Desk Lamp is available with the following: Details:Black metal base5-step touch dimmerUSB charger2 points of adjustability for maximum flexibilityLED Color Temperature: 5500K-7000KCRI: 70150 lumensUL Listed plug adaptor includedLighting: One 7 Watt 120 Volt LED lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 24 hours. Dimensions: Base: Width 4.5 In., Depth 7.4 In. Fixture: Height 15.6 In.

Sax LED Table Lamp by ET2 $288 Sleek, sensuous music for the eyes. The ET2 Sax LED Table Lamp seems to float gracefully through space–a sliver of glossy White (or Black) sweeping up into an elegant arc that conceals a thin LED. Turn the lamp on or off via an inline switch. Great for nighttime bedside reading. ET2, headquartered in California, offers a range of contemporary lighting fixtures and chandeliers that utilize crisp and clean glass styles and bright metal finishes to enhance modern and contemporary interiors. ET2 is a division of the Maxim Lighting Group. The ET2 Sax LED Table Lamp is available with the following: Details:Metal composition79″ cordColor Temperature: 3500 KLumens: 225UL ListedOptions:Finish: Black, or Matte White.Lighting: One 5 Watt 120 Volt LED (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 4-5 business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 15 In., Width 5 In., Depth 20 In.

LED Floor Lamp No. 9680/1 by Holtkoetter $698 There is no part of a space that can escape the light of the Holtkoetter LED Floor Lamp No. 9680/1, as the rotating head and extendable arm direct light to wherever it’s needed. Meanwhile, the cutting-edge Dimm-System P1 controls the strength of the light and turns the lamp on and off gradually via the dimmer switch located in the joint between the arm and column. Influenced by Bauhaus principles of “form follows function” design, German company Holtkoetter is dedicated to providing highly sophisticated yet streamlined lighting with both strong engineering and a smooth, modern aesthetic. Holtkoetter lighting fixtures have been assembled for U.S. market in St. Paul, Minnesota since 1983. The Holtkoetter LED Floor Lamp No. 9680/1 is available with the following: Details:Rotating metal shadeArm extends 18″ (the specially engineered swivel and brass tubing prevent sagging)Stem height is adjustableDimm-System P1 dimmer switch located at the base of the armSoft On–a single click to turn lamp on with gradual brightening to full brightnessSoft/Delayed Off–a single click to turn lamp off; lamp dims to 60% brightness, remaining at that level to allow one to exit a room before eventually turning itself offLumens: 220Color Temperature: 2900 KMade in Germany; assembled in the USAUL ListedOptions:Finish: Brushed Brass, Chrome, Hand Brushed Old Bronze, or Satin Nickel.Care Instructions: Use only a soft, dry cloth to clean. If necessary, a slightly damp, soft cloth can be used to spot clean. Do not use common household cleaners on lamps or fixtures, as the lacquer on the outside of the brass may be damaged as a result. Lighting: One 3.5 Watt 120 Volt LED lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within five business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height Adjustable from 38.5 In. to 56.25 In., Extension Adjustable to 16 In.

Equo LED Desk Lamp by Koncept $225 Bright and energy-efficient, the Koncept Equo LED Desk Lamp also has a sleek form ideal in a contemporary work space. It has a super-thin arm that appears to float above the stem. It is counterbalanced so that the arm can be adjusted with the lightest touch, with a constant angle joint maintaining the head’s tilt. Power and light level is controlled by a touch-sensitive strip. Koncept Technologies, headquartered in Monterey Park, CA, creates high-quality, innovative products that make life simpler and safer for customers. The Koncept Equo LED Desk Lamp is available with the following: Details:Made of aluminum and plasticAdjustable heightBuilt-in touch-sensitive dimmer and on-off switch11 step brightess adjustabilityOval light areaCounterbalanced for feather-light touch adjustability9′ Black cordColor Temperature: Cool — 4500 K; Warm — 3500 KCRI: 8550,000 hr lifespan UL Listed”Best In Class” in the Next Generation Luminaires Solid-State Lighting Design Competition, 2011Benelux Office Products Award, 2011iF Product Design AwardGood Design AwardRed Dot Production Design AwardOptions:Color: Black, Orange, or Silver.Light Source: Cool, or Warm.Lighting: One 6 Watt 120 Volt LED array (included). Shipping: In Stock items ship within 1 business day. Others usually ship within 7 business days unless otherwise noted. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 32 In., Height 12.5 In.

LED Bookend Lamp by George Kovacs $150 The one lamp that keeps books organized while also making them easier to read. The George Kovacs LED Bookend Lamp comes with three LED lights that tilt out of the main housing and a reversible foot plate to position as needed on a bookshelf. Comes in a silver or Sable Bronze Patina finish. The creative and often humorous mid-century modern aesthetic of George Kovacs (1926-2007) made a lasting impression on contemporary lighting. The extraordinary George Kovacs lighting collection, which also includes pieces by Alecia Wesner, Karim Rashid and other mid-century modern lighting designers, is now part of the Minka Group. The George Kovacs LED Bookend Lamp is available with the following: Details:3 LED diffusersOn/Off switchReversible foot plateOptions:Finish: Sable Bronze Patina, or Silver (shown).Lighting: Three 1 Watt 120 Volt LED lamps (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 48 hours. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 10.75 In., Width 3.25 In., Depth 7.5 In.

Swyvel LED Desk Lamp by Bulbrite $158 As its name suggests, the Bulbrite Swyvel LED Desk Lamp swivels at no fewer than three points for maximum adjustability. The exact strength of its energy efficient array of LEDs is controllable via a 5-step touch dimmer. Adding to Swyvel’s modern convenience is a USB port in the base to charge your portable devices. Since 1971, from its headquarters in New Jersey, Bulbrite manufactures and supplies an extensive line of innovative and award-winning light bulbs. Their line of energy efficient light source solutions, educational resources and outstanding service make Bulbrite the bulb supplier of choice for lighting professionals. The Bulbrite Swyvel LED Desk Lamp is available with the following: Details:Metal base5-step touch dimmerUSB charger3 points of adjustability for maximum flexibilityLED Color Temperature: 5000KCRI: 84250 lumensUL Listed plug adaptor includedOptions:Color: Black, or White.Lighting: Four 2 Watt 120 Volt LED lamps (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 24 hours. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 17.63 In. Base: Diameter 7.75 In.

Talak LED Floor Lamp by Artemide $1075 Acclaimed minimalist designer Neil Poulton infused this design with equal amounts of simplicity and functionality. The arm of the Artemide Talak LED Floor Lamp rotates 360 degrees horizontally, adjusts up and down, is dimmable–and looks fantastically contemporary. It’s a multi-award-winning design, and it features an energy efficient LED that utilizes an array of 80 LED lights utilizing 8 Watts. Since 1959, Artemide has created a wide array of modern table lamps, floor lamps, wall sconces and suspensions. Technologically advanced, and with styles ranging from clean and refined to sculptural and avant garde, many Artemide designs–especially the Tolomeo and Tizio–have become icons of contemporary lighting design. The Artemide Talak LED Floor Lamp is available with the following: Details:Injection molded thermoplastic shade with Matte White powder coated finishPolished Chrome steel stemWhite painted steel floor baseShade rotates 360 degrees on horizontal planeShade height adjustable by sliding it along the stemDimmer switch on shadeUL ListedMade in ItalyDesigned by Neil Poulton, 2008Lighting: 80 LED array utilizing 8 Watts total (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1 week. Dimensions: Base: Diameter 9 In., Height .81 In. Fixture: Width 33.68 In., Height Adjustable to 54.75 In.

Edgy Rectangular LED Task Lamp by Trend Lighting $270 Sleek and shiny, the Trend Lighting Edgy Rectangular LED Task Lamp is a professional desk lamp that features an on/off touch sensor and a warm white LED light. The polished stainless steel design works well in a range of settings, especially those with a contemporary lean. Planted and nurtured in a California basement more than 20 years ago, and founded on the principles of quality and innovation, Trend Lighting has grown to create products to complement a variety of styles, from contemporary to classic traditional. The Trend Lighting Edgy Rectangular LED Task Lamp is available with the following: Details:Metal shade and basePolished Stainless Steel finishTouch on-off switchPlug-In driverUL ListedLighting: One 4 Watt 120 Volt LED lamp (included). This is approximately equivalent to a 40 Watt Incandescent bulb. Shipping: This item usually ships within 1 week. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 14.5 In., Width 16 In.

MiniKelvin LED Task Lamp by Flos $345 The Flos MiniKelvin LED Task Lamp features an adjustable arm that allows you to extend the illumination wherever it’s needed. The aluminum shade also adjusts. An inline soft touch dimmer controls the amount of light, ranging from 0%-50%, and 50%-100%. Great for tight desk spaces as it has less than a 5″ footprint. Flos was first established in 1962 in Merano, Italy, to produce high quality modern lighting. This Italian lighting company continues to do so to this day by collaborating with talented international designers and researching the latest lighting technologies and materials. Resulting Flos lighting fixtures are daring and provocative, yet uphold the fundamental principles of good design. The Flos MiniKelvin LED Task Lamp is available with the following: Details:Adjustable aluminum head with bottom methacrylate diffuserAdjustable armAluminum baseChrome finishSoft touch inline dimmerDimmer features two intensities: 100% – 50% – 0%Pantograph arm and adjustable headCRI: 93Lumens: 1260Color Temperature 2700 KUL ListedMade in ItalyDesigned by Antonio CitterioLighting: Two hundred fifty-two 120 Volt LEDs; 20 Watts total (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within five business days. Dimensions: Base: Width 4.72 In. Head: Width 2.36 In. Fixture: Height 14.7 In.

Egle LED Table Lamp by Artemide $635 The remarkably flexible Artemide Egle LED Table Lamp is fashioned with a flashlight-like shade rotatable up to 300 degrees and a stem that rotates both vertically and horizontally. The base offers a concave surface perfect for placing office odds and ends and also acts as a reflector when the shade is pointed straight down. Since 1959, Artemide has created a wide array of modern table lamps, floor lamps, wall sconces and suspensions. Technologically advanced, and with styles ranging from clean and refined to sculptural and avant garde, many Artemide designs–especially the Tolomeo and Tizio–have become icons of contemporary lighting design. The Artemide Egle LED Table Lamp is available with the following: Details:Zamak base and shadeSteel stemShade fitted with concentrating lensShade rotatable up to 300 degreesStem rotates 150 degree vertically and 40 degree horizontallyInterchangeable plug options accommodate most electrical outlets for global versatilityDimmer switch on baseUL ListedMade in ItalyDesigned by Michel Boucquillon, 2008Options:Finish: Black, Chrome, or White.Lighting: 3 Watt 120 Volt LED (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 1 week. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 27.25 In. Base: Diameter 7.19 In. Shade: Height 8.98 In.

BE Light Task Lamp by QisDesign $590 The BE Light Task Lamp by QisDesign utilizes a clever hinge design to provide a task lighting solution that’s at once adjustable and compact. This die-cast aluminum lamp can be folded completely flat or extended outward up to 135 degrees. The use of Light Guide Technology evenly diffuses the LED light. QisDesign successfully blends fluid organic shapes with advanced LED lighting technology. The resulting LED lamps and pendant lights have won numerous design awards, including the Red Dot, iF and Good Design awards. The BE Light Task Lamp by QisDesign is available with the following: Details:Made of die-cast aluminum alloySilver finishDimmer switch on baseExtends up to 135 degreesLED Color Temperature: 3000KETL ListedDesigned by QisDesignLighting: 12 Watt 120 Volt LED array (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 3 business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 17.75 In., Height Adjustable from 13 In. to 18.38 In., Depth 4 In.

LED Adjustable Wall Lamp No. P477 by George Kovacs $190 The George Kovacs LED Adjustable Wall Lamp No. P477 is both flexible and focused. It features one wall lamp with a rectangular white fabric shade to provide ambient lighting and a LED reading lamp with a flexible neck to direct task lighting wherever it’s needed. For an entirely sleek look, it comes in a chrome finish. The creative and often humorous mid-century modern aesthetic of George Kovacs (1926-2007) made a lasting impression on contemporary lighting. The extraordinary George Kovacs lighting collection, which also includes pieces by Alecia Wesner, Karim Rashid and other mid-century modern lighting designers, is now part of the Minka Group. The George Kovacs LED Adjustable Wall Lamp No. P477 is available with the following: Details:White fabric shadeChrome finishRectangular wall plateOn/Off switchAdjustable gooseneck LED reading lampCan be hard-wired or used with the included pin-up kitUL ListedLighting: One 60 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included), and one 3 Watt 120 Volt LED lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 48 hours. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 23.25 In., Width 10 In., Depth 21 In.

Edgy Round LED Task Lamp by Trend Lighting $270 Feeling uptight about the task lighting in your office or living room? Then loosen up with the Trend Lighting Edgy Round LED Task Lamp. This solid stainless steel lamp has clean, yet pleasingly rounded edges, a modern form well-suited to its energy efficient LED lamping. Both the included driver and LED array are replaceable. Planted and nurtured in a California basement more than 20 years ago, and founded on the principles of quality and innovation, Trend Lighting has grown to create products to complement a variety of styles, from contemporary to classic traditional. The Trend Lighting Edgy Round LED Task Lamp is available with the following: Details:Stainless steel shade and basePolished Stainless Steel finishTouch on/off blue LED switchPlug-in driver (replaceable AC cord and plug)Replaceable plug-in LED unit320 lumensUL ListedLighting: One 4 Watt 120 Volt LED lamp (included). This is approximately equivalent to a 40 Watt Incandescent bulb. Shipping: This item usually ships within 1 week. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 15.5 In., Width 15.5 In.

LED Adjustable Wall Lamp No. P478 by George Kovacs $190 The George Kovacs LED Adjustable Wall Lamp No. P478 is a sleek little multi-tasker. The swing arm wall lamp comes with a white fabric shade and provides ambient lighting in a room, while the LED reading lamp offers focused, directional lighting. Comes in a glossy chrome finish. The creative and often humorous mid-century modern aesthetic of George Kovacs (1926-2007) made a lasting impression on contemporary lighting. The extraordinary George Kovacs lighting collection, which also includes pieces by Alecia Wesner, Karim Rashid and other mid-century modern lighting designers, is now part of the Minka Group. The George Kovacs LED Adjustable Wall Lamp No. P478 is available with the following: Details:White fabric shadeMetal hardwareChrome finishRectangular wall plateOn/Off switchAdjustable gooseneck reading lampCan be hard-wired or used with the included pin-up kitUL ListedLighting: One 100 Watt 120 Volt Medium Base Incandescent lamp (not included), and one 3 Watt 120 Volt LED lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 48 hours. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 27.25 In., Width 7 In., Depth 7 In.

LED Duo Wall Lamp No. 70004 by Access Lighting $160.2 The Access Lighting LED Duo Wall Lamp No. 70004 offers both adjustable task lighting in an energy efficient lamping, as well as an ambiance-enhancing diffused light from its cylindrical glass shades. Finished in either Bronze or Brushed Steel, this sconce is a great soft contemporary multi-tasking light. Access Lighting, a California Company, provides practical, beautiful, and affordable time-tested classics and energy efficient lighting. Exclusive designs in contemporary and traditional styles for indoors and outdoors are gathered from around the world. The Access Lighting LED Duo Wall Lamp No. 70004 is available with the following: Details:Cylindrical Clear outer glass shadeCylindrical Opal inner glass shadeAdjustable LED task lightRectangular wall plateIncludes cord and plug to convert to a pin-upUL ListedOptions:Finish: Bronze, or Brushed Steel.Lighting: One 60 Watt 120 Volt Type A19 Medium Base Incandescent lamps (included) and one 3 Watt 12 Volt Low-voltage LED lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 2 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Depth 6.5 In., Overall Height 11.75 In., Length 12.5 In.

Zee LED Undercabinet Light by Alico $90 The Alico Zee LED Undercabinet Light is a highly energy efficient undercabinet light, averaging an LED lamp life of over 50,000 hours. It offers bright, even light in 5 convenient lengths and 3 classic finishes. From their headquarters in Ontario, Canada, Alico Lighting has been “bringing your world to light” for more than fifty years. Their line of high-quality transitional and contemporary indoor lighting both illuminates and beautifies, all the while employing the latest in energy-saving lighting technology. The Alico Zee LED Undercabinet Light is available with the following: Details:Clear glass lensIntegrated LED DriverUser-replaceable LED moduleUL ListedOptions:Finish: Bronze, Stainless Steel, or White.Size: 9″, 17.5″, 26″, 34.5″ or 48″.Lighting:9 inch option utilizes one 2.5 Watt 120 Volt LED lamp (included).17.5 inch option utilizes two 2.5 Watt 120 Volt LED lamps (included).26 inch option utilizes three 2.5 Watt 120 Volt LED lamps (included).34.5 inch option utilizes four 2.5 Watt 120 Volt LED lamps (included).48 inch option utilizes six 2.5 Watt 120 Volt LED lamps (included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 2 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 3.81 In., Depth 1.31 In.

Top Four Dimmable LED Reading Lamp by Luxit $1102.5 Designed by Alberto Basaglia and Natalia Rota Nodari, the Luxit Top Four Dimmable LED Reading Lamp utilizes the latest energy efficient LED lamping in a captivating, modern design. With a swiveling base and spring arm, this slim aluminum floor lamp is infinitely adjustable, making it as pleasurable to use as it is to look at. Based in Presezzo, Italy, Luxit has been creating “Light that Works” since 1967. Their modern, highly engineered lighting solutions are technologically superior, energy efficient and attractive. Luxit is part of the FDV Collection. The Luxit Top Four Dimmable LED Reading Lamp is available with the following: Details:4 lensesSpotlight structure in painted extruded aluminum, with thermoplastic coveringAluminum baseRotates at baseBuilt-in spring system in arm, adjustable up to 75 degreesFull-range touch dimmer on arm52″ Black power cordLED Color Temperature: 2900 KLED average rated life: 50,000 hoursEnergy efficientCE RatedMade in ItalyDesigned by Alberto Basaglia and Natalia Rota NodariOptions:Color: Glossy Red, Glossy Black, or Glossy White.Lighting: Four 1.2 Watt 120 Volt LED lamps (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 2-3 days. Dimensions: Head: Depth 2.63 In., Width 2.55 In. Fixture: Reach Adjustable to 25.03 In., Height Adjustable to 63.38 In., Width 2.55 In. Arm: Length 22.55 In. Stem: Length 40.55 In.

Eco-Task 41015 LED Floor Lamp by ET2 $398 The ET2 Eco-Task 41015 LED Floor Lamp is at once ultra-contemporary and graceful. This modern directional floor lamp features a slender stem that curves apart at the top to allow the arm to pivot. At the end of the arm, the unique dual disc shade swivels and rotates smoothly for the desired orientation of light. ET2, headquartered in California, offers a range of contemporary lighting fixtures and chandeliers that utilize crisp and clean glass styles and bright metal finishes to enhance modern and contemporary interiors. ET2 is a division of the Maxim Lighting Group. The ET2 Eco-Task 41015 LED Floor Lamp is available with the following: Details:Metal shade and baseSatin Nickel finishShade rotates and swivels 350 degreesTouch dimmer with night light on stem72″ power cord with driver housed in the plugAdjustable heightLED Color Temperature: 3300K225 lumensUL ListedLighting: One 5 Watt 120 Volt LED (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 4-5 business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height Adjustable to 62 In., Width 28 In.

LED Wall Lamp No. 62089 by Access Lighting $82.8 Simple and to the point. Supremely functional for all task-oriented jobs, the Access Lighting LED Wall Lamp No. 62089 features an energy efficient lamping and adjustable arm, ideal for catching up on some late night reading or finishing a project that requires specific spotlighting. Access Lighting, a California Company, provides practical, beautiful, and affordable time-tested classics and energy efficient lighting. Exclusive designs in contemporary and traditional styles for indoors and outdoors are gathered from around the world. The Access Lighting LED Wall Lamp No. 62089 is available with the following: Details:Metal shadeRound wall plateGooseneck armOn/off switch on wall plateIncludes cord and plug to convert to a pin-upEnergy EfficientUL ListedOptions:Finish: Bronze, or Brushed Steel.Lighting: One 1 Watt 120 Volt LED lamp (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 2 days. Dimensions: Fixture: Overall Height 16.7 In. Backplate: Diameter 5 In., Depth 1.7 In.

Eco-Task 41014 LED Table Lamp by ET2 $278 The ET2 Eco-Task 41014 LED Table Lamp sets itself apart with a double-disc shade and curved dual stem. Otherwise finished in Satin Nickel, the shade is assisted in its diffusion of light by a frosted disc. This shade rotates, swivels and rises up and down for precise placement of its energy efficient LED light. ET2, headquartered in California, offers a range of contemporary lighting fixtures and chandeliers that utilize crisp and clean glass styles and bright metal finishes to enhance modern and contemporary interiors. ET2 is a division of the Maxim Lighting Group. The ET2 Eco-Task 41014 LED Table Lamp is available with the following: Details:Metal shade and baseSatin Nickel finishShade rotates and swivels 350 degreesTouch dimmer with night light72″ power cord with driver housed in the plugAdjustable heightLED Color Temperature: 3300K225 lumensUL ListedLighting: One 5 Watt 120 Volt LED (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 4-5 business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 28 In., Height Adjustable to 25 In.

Eco-Task 41008 LED Table Lamp by ET2 $258 Lovers of minimalist design and bright task light, rejoice! The ET2 Eco-Task 41008 LED Table Lamp features a sleek, adjustable form that allows for precise directionality of the vibrant LED light, with a disc-shaped shade that swivels, rotates and rises up and down. Available in two finishes. ET2, headquartered in California, offers a range of contemporary lighting fixtures and chandeliers that utilize crisp and clean glass styles and bright metal finishes to enhance modern and contemporary interiors. ET2 is a division of the Maxim Lighting Group. The ET2 Eco-Task 41008 LED Table Lamp is available with the following: Details:Metal shade and baseShade swivels 350 degrees and rotatesTouch dimmer with night light72″ power cord with driver housed in the plugAdjustable heightLED Color Temperature: 3300K225 lumensUL ListedOptions:Finish: Bronze, or Satin Nickel.Lighting: One 5 Watt 120 Volt LED (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 4-5 business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 25 In., Height Adjustable to 21 In.