Still running old incandescent or halogen bulbs? This free LED vs incandescent savings calculator shows how much you would save each year by switching to LED, how fast the new bulbs pay for themselves, and what you save over 10 years once bulb replacements are included.

How This Calculator Works

The calculator uses the same simple formula your utility uses to bill you:

• Yearly kWh = bulb watts × number of bulbs × hours per day × 365 ÷ 1,000
• Yearly cost = yearly kWh × your electricity rate
• Yearly savings = old bulb cost − LED cost

The 10-year savings figure also counts replacement bulbs. An incandescent bulb is usually rated for about 1,000 hours, while many LEDs are rated for 15,000 hours or more, so you buy far fewer LEDs over time. You can change bulb prices and lifespan under “Bulb prices & lifespan”.

Example: Switching 10 Bulbs

Ten 60W incandescent bulbs used 5 hours a day use about 1,095 kWh a year. Ten 8.8W LEDs giving the same 800 lumens use about 161 kWh. At an example rate of $0.18 per kWh, that is about $197 vs $29 a year, a saving of roughly $168 every year. With $5 LEDs, the switch pays for itself in about three months.

Watts to Lumens: Which LED Replaces Your Old Bulb?

Shop by lumens (brightness), not watts. The FTC notes that a traditional 60-watt incandescent bulb gives about 800 lumens.

Brightness	Old incandescent	Halogen	Typical LED
450 lumens	40W	29W	about 5–6W
800 lumens	60W	43W	about 8–9W
1,100 lumens	75W	53W	about 11W
1,600 lumens	100W	72W	about 13–15W

LED wattage varies by brand, so check the box and type the exact number into the calculator for the most accurate result.

Tips to Get the Most From LED Bulbs

• Start with the lights you use most. Kitchen, living room and porch lights that run for hours give the fastest payback.
• Pick 2700K for a warm look. “Soft white” LEDs match the cozy color of old incandescent bulbs.
• Choose CRI 90+ where color matters, like living rooms and bathrooms.
• Use dimmable LEDs on dimmers and check that your dimmer supports LED loads.
• Automate outdoor lights with a dusk to dawn light bulb so they never run all day by mistake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money does switching to LED save?

It depends on how many bulbs you switch and how long they are on. Replacing one 60W bulb used 3 hours a day with an 8.8W LED saves about $10 a year at $0.18 per kWh. Ten bulbs used 5 hours a day save around $168 a year.

How much less energy do LED bulbs use?

The U.S. Department of Energy says residential LEDs use at least 75% less energy than incandescent lighting. Swapping a 60W bulb for an 8.8W LED cuts energy use by about 85%.

How long do LED bulbs last compared to incandescent?

Incandescent bulbs are typically rated for about 1,000 hours. Many LEDs are rated for 15,000 hours or more, and ENERGY STAR says certified LEDs last at least 15 times longer than standard bulbs.

Can I still buy incandescent bulbs?

Only some types. Most everyday household incandescent bulbs no longer meet US efficiency rules. Our incandescent light bulb guide explains which ones are still sold.

What electricity rate should I use?

Use the price per kWh from your latest electric bill. If your bill has several charges, divide the total amount by the total kWh used to get an all-in rate.

More Free Tools and Guides

• Appliance Energy Cost Calculator – see what every appliance in your home costs to run.
• Smart Thermostat Savings Calculator – estimate heating and cooling savings.
• Best smart light bulbs – LED bulbs with schedules, dimming and warm white.
• Energy monitoring smart plugs – measure what your lamps really use.