LED Technology Most widely known for energy efficiency , LEDs have become the universal standard for modern high-intensity artificial lighting. LEDs are ubiquitous to the extent that other lighting has effectively been displaced (incandescent, fluorescent, metal halide, high and low-pressure sodium, mercury vapor, halogen). Frequently, LEDs are the only technology under consideration because few people are aware of alternatives like magnetic induction lighting . This is one of the most compelling arguments favoring LEDs when re-lamping or for a first-time installation. There are literally dozens, if not hundreds of brands. However, it is important to know that LED technology is still being developed, and is advancing to overcome serious problems and deficiencies. This rapid evolution represents risk as models are constantly being improved and changed. Often, it is impossible to replace LED fixtures with the original installation model because of rapid development and deployment of new revisions. Some early LED adopters have ended up with a hodgepodge of mismatched lamps because brands have disappeared along with designs, parts, and support. A majority of high-intensity LED floods suitable for wet and cold environments are sealed units that cannot be serviced . If such an LED unit fails, it must be completely replaced. Unique Snow Venue Conditions One of the most remarkable LED features is the lack of heat at the lamp face; diode
lighting elements. This is one reason LEDs can be so energy efficient. However, this lack of heat on the lamp face has been a serious problem for many ski areas because they can freeze over with accumulated snow and ice . Since the lighting elements are sensitive, snow and ice cannot be removed mechanically; i.e., chipped or scraped off. Even the use of an industrial shrink-wrap dryer is not recommended because heat can damage the
seal between the lamp face and containment vessel. Very large and significant LED projects such as traffic light replacement unexpectantly encountered this problem. Several ski areas have encountered the same problem. Keep in mind that a driving snowstorm can coat LEDs, rendering them ineffective. Environmental and End-of-Lifecycle Issues With the rapidly increasing LED installed base, particular issues present major challenges for sustainability and cost-effective implementation . From an environmental perspective, LEDs are often not considered sustainable due to toxic components and a lack of recyclability. This is being addressed by states and
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