LED vs Halogen in Landscape Lighting: What’s the Difference?

The Short Answer — LED Is Better in Every Way

In 2025, there’s no good reason to install a halogen landscape lighting system — and plenty of reasons not to. LED technology has completely overtaken halogen in terms of efficiency, reliability, color control, and long-term cost.

At Ecotek Outdoor Lighting, we only install LED systems — because we’ve seen firsthand how much better they perform, especially in Florida’s demanding climate.

Still not sure why LED has become the new standard? Let’s break it down.

Key Differences Between LED and Halogen

Energy Efficiency

LEDs use up to 85% less energy than halogen bulbs. A typical LED fixture runs on 3–6 watts, while a comparable halogen pulls 20 watts or more. That means:

  • Smaller transformers

  • Lower energy bills

  • Cooler operation

  • Less strain on your system

[Link: Transformer Sizing Article]

Read About Our Maintenance Plan

Lifespan and Maintenance

Halogen lamps typically last 1,000 to 2,000 hours — meaning you’ll be replacing them once or twice a year in most systems.

LED fixtures? Expect 30,000 to 50,000 hours, with some integrated models rated even higher. That’s a decade or more of consistent performance.

Bottom line:

  • Less maintenance

  • Fewer service calls

  • No need to constantly replace burned-out bulbs

Heat and Safety

Halogen bulbs run hot — and we mean hot. They can crack lenses, melt surrounding material, and burn your fingers if touched.

LEDs run much cooler, even after hours of operation. That makes them safer, more durable, and far better suited for mulch beds, foliage, and high-touch areas.

Color Temperature and Beam Control

Halogen bulbs emit warm light by default, but their color shifts as they age. LEDs are available in a range of consistent color temperatures — 2700K, 3000K, 4000K, and beyond.

And with modern optics, LEDs offer sharper beam spreads, cleaner edges, and better directional control — whether you’re uplighting a tree or washing a wall.

[Link: Color Temperature Article]

[Link: Uplighting vs Downlighting Article]

Cost Over Time

Halogen fixtures may be cheaper up front, but they cost you more in the long run — through:

  • Higher energy usage

  • Frequent bulb replacements

  • Increased maintenance

  • Shorter system life overall

LED systems have a higher upfront investment, but they pay for themselves quickly — and they don’t degrade the way halogen systems do.

Do Any Installers Still Use Halogen?


Some do — mostly because they’re using old stock, cutting corners, or just haven’t adapted to modern standards.

At Ecotek, we don’t install outdated tech. We use LED-only systems that are clean, efficient, and built for long-term performance in Central Florida’s heat, humidity, and storms.

LED Options for Every Budget and Project

We offer multiple LED system types to match your budget and goals:

Learn More About Our Lighting Packages

[Link: Essential vs Integrated Article]

Want a Lighting System That Works Every Night for Years?


LED is the standard for a reason — and we do it right. No plastic parts. No halogen gimmicks. Just reliable, low-voltage systems that look great and last.

We install professional-grade lighting across Central Florida with custom designs, expert wiring, and pro-grade fixtures — all LED, all day.

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Stop Replacing Bulbs. Start Enjoying Light.

Make the switch to LED and get a system that actually lasts. Let’s design yours.