LEDs are rated at 25,000–50,000 hours — 15 to 50 times longer than halogen. Real life depends heavily on quality and conditions, and an LED usually does not fail outright, it fades.

What LED lifespan actually means

The key figure is L70: the number of hours after which the fitting still delivers 70 % of its original output. So a 50,000-hour rating does not mean the lamp goes dark then — it means it has become noticeably dimmer.

What shortens it

  • Heat — the main enemy. The hotter the chip, the faster the output drops.
  • Enclosed fittings — if the housing is not marked enclosed-rated, heat has nowhere to go.
  • Cheap drivers — these usually fail long before the diodes do.
  • Voltage spikes and running at the very limit of rated power.

How to extend it

  • Mount LED strip SOFT, 24VDC, 9.6W/m in an Profile Siler — it works as a heatsink.
  • Do not enclose a fitting that is not rated for it.
  • Do not run a strip right at its limit; headroom extends life.
  • Choose a quality driver with 20–30 % spare capacity.

Long life means lower cost

LED savings are not only about electricity — you also stop replacing lamps for years, which matters most where a fitting is hard to reach. See LED energy saving and LED vs halogen.

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How long does an LED last?

Typically 25,000–50,000 hours, depending on quality and cooling.

What is L70?

The number of hours after which the fitting still gives 70 % of its original brightness.

Why do some LEDs fade or fail early?

Usually overheating or a cheap driver rather than the diodes themselves.

Can I put an LED in an enclosed fitting?

Only if the lamp is marked as suitable for enclosed fittings.

Does frequent switching damage an LED?

No — unlike fluorescent lamps, LEDs handle it without any issue.

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