LED vs. Incandescent: Which Holiday Lights Are Best for Your Home?
Should you go with LED or stick with traditional incandescent lights?
When it comes to holiday decorating, one of the most common questions we hear from homeowners in Northern Virginia is: Should I go with LED or stick with traditional incandescent lights?
Both have their place in holiday history, but when you’re investing in a professional installation, it’s worth knowing the pros and cons of each. At NoVA Light Pros, we help families across Fairfax, Prince William County, and beyond choose the right lights for their style, budget, and energy goals.
The Case for Incandescent Holiday Lights
Incandescents are the classic choice—the ones many of us grew up with.
Pros:
- Warm, nostalgic glow that feels timeless.
- Lower upfront cost at the store.
- Widely available in traditional styles.
Cons:
- Use significantly more energy (and can spike your December power bill).
- Burn hotter, which can be a fire hazard if overloaded.
- Shorter lifespan—bulbs burn out quickly and often unevenly.
- More fragile glass bulbs that break easily in storage or on installation.
Incandescent lights can still create that cozy holiday feel, but they require more caution and frequent replacement.
The Case for LED Holiday Lights
LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) are the modern standard for holiday lighting—and for good reason.
Pros:
- Energy efficient: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED holiday lights use up to 75% less energy than incandescents.
- Long lifespan: LEDs last up to 25x longer, which means fewer replacements.
- Cool to the touch: Much safer for homes with kids or pets.
- Durable: Plastic casings are less likely to shatter.
- Design versatility: Available in warm white, cool white, or vibrant colors—so you don’t sacrifice style.
- Eco-friendly: Less waste and lower carbon footprint.
Cons:
- Slightly higher upfront cost—but one that pays off in energy savings and durability.
- Some homeowners prefer the “warmer” tone of incandescents, though modern LEDs now replicate that look almost perfectly.
For most Northern Virginia homeowners, LEDs are the smarter long-term choice.
What We Recommend
At NoVA Light Pros, we almost always recommend professional-grade LEDs for holiday installations. They deliver:
- Lower utility bills.
- Safer operation during cold, wet winters.
- Cleaner, more consistent lines for your home’s roofline and landscaping.
Plus, our LEDs are custom-cut to your home—no extra strands hanging, no awkward gaps, just a perfect fit.
Helpful Resources
Ready to Light Up Your Home?
Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgic glow of incandescents or the efficiency of LEDs, our team at NoVA Light Pros can design a holiday display that works for your style and your HOA. From Fairfax to Gainesville and Haymarket, we’re the trusted choice for professional Christmas light installation in Northern Virginia.
📞 Call us today or request a free quote—we’ll help your home shine bright this holiday season!
