LED (light emitting diode) products produce light approximately 90 percent more efficiently than incandescent light bulbs.
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The college noted the change will improve the classroom experience while being environmentally friendly.
“It’s a no-brainer,” said Dan Ayars, director of facility operations and management for Clark State. “The energy savings in this building is about $9,000.”
Ayars said the project cost about $45,000 to complete, but he expects the investment will be covered quickly due to the savings from the new lighting.
He said the LED bulbs have a life expectancy of about 20 years — about 25 times longer than a typical incandescent bulbs.
The switch to LEDs will also decrease the time and maintenance required to maintain traditional lighting.
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Ayars said facilities staff probably won’t have to touch the bulbs for at least 10 years, due in part to their warranty.
The LED lights are also brighter and crisper than incandescent. Ayars noted the addition of LEDs outside of Shull Hall will improve safety for both students and staff.
“It’s considered daylight lighting,” Ayars said.
Shull Hall’s switch to LEDs was completed last winter. The decision to change all of the lighting on campus will eventually be presented to Clark State’s Board of Trustees.
Recently, Ohio State University’s Marion campus also installed LED lights along pedestrian walkways and parking areas. In 2014, Ohio University in Athens also made the switch in one of its multi-purpose arenas.
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