If you’re still cruising around with incandescent bulbs on your boat, you’re essentially pitching efficiency overboard. While those tiny bulbs might seem insignificant, their cumulative energy drain, heat production, and poor light quality make them a major burden on your boat's electrical system and your overall boating experience. Let's dive into one of my main must-do upgrade for your boat - LED bulbs & lighting.
Any boat owner that made the switch will say this is one of the best investments you can make for your vessel. It also ranks very high, as far as boat upgrades go, in the least expensive and biggest aesthetic impact.
These LED bulbs sure do look pretty cool and come in many different designs but all do the same job in lighting up your dark spaces.
I appreciate you spending a few minutes of your valuable time here reading my blog! Hope it's of value to you, and if so, please give it a like!
Also, there is a LED conversion guide at the end with a PDF link just below it for your convenience.
Disclaimer: Please Read
Out Of This World Boatworks LLC, Nelson Run Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, provides information and advice on its blog and website as a service to the boating community. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, all information presented is for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional expertise or judgment.
By accessing and using the content on our blog and website, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer. You agree to hold Out Of This World Boatworks LLC harmless from any and all claims, damages, or liabilities arising out of your use of or reliance upon the information provided. We encourage you to exercise due diligence and seek professional guidance when making decisions related to boating, safety, and legal matters.
Thank you for your time and understanding!
Why LED Bulbs Are A Must-Do Upgrade For Your Boat The Hidden Cost of Incandescent Lighting
It's easy to underestimate the impact of those small incandescent bulbs. They're cheap to buy initially, which is why you still see them in many boats. However, their downsides far outweigh the initial cost savings:
Power Hungry:
Incandescent bulbs are notoriously inefficient. They convert only a small fraction of the electricity they consume into light; the rest is dissipated as heat. This means they draw a significant amount of power to produce a relatively dim light. On a boat, where battery power is precious, this inefficiency is a serious problem. Multiple incandescent lights running simultaneously can quickly drain your batteries, especially during extended stays at anchor.
Amp Draw Add-Up:
Consider this scenario: you have six overhead lights, two reading lights, and a couple of courtesy lights, all using incandescent bulbs. Individually, their amperage draw might seem minimal. But add them all together, and you’ll be surprised at how quickly the amperage draw climbs. This constant drain puts unnecessary strain on your boat's battery charger and, most importantly, the batteries themselves, shortening their lifespan and potentially leaving you stranded with a dead battery.
Heat Production:
Incandescent bulbs use 90% of their energy as heat instead of light. That's not just an inefficiency; it's also a comfort issue. Incandescent bulbs get hot, especially in enclosed spaces. This contributes to the overall cabin temperature, forcing your air conditioning system to work harder, which further strains your systems and increases fuel consumption, if your running your cooling system from your generator. In the summer, this effect is particularly noticeable, making your boat less comfortable and more expensive to run.
Limited Lifespan:
Incandescent bulbs have a relatively short lifespan compared to LEDs. This means frequent replacements, adding to the inconvenience and cost of maintaining your boat's lighting.
The LED Advantage: Efficiency, Brightness, and Longevity
Switching to LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs offers a multitude of benefits that directly address the shortcomings of incandescent lighting:
Energy Efficiency:
LEDs are incredibly energy-efficient, converting a much higher percentage of electricity into light with very little waste as heat. This means they draw significantly less power than incandescent bulbs for the same (or even greater) light output.
Reduced Amp Draw:
The lower power consumption translates directly to a reduced amperage draw. This allows you to run more lights for longer periods without draining your batteries. It also takes the strain off your charging system and extends the life of your batteries.
Cooler Operation:
LEDs generate very little heat compared to incandescent bulbs. This helps keep your cabin cooler, reducing the workload on your air conditioning system and making your boat more comfortable.
Increased Brightness and Visibility:
Because LEDs use so much less power, you can often increase the wattage (and therefore the brightness) of your bulbs without significantly increasing the amperage draw. This provides much better visibility, especially at night, enhancing safety and enjoyment on the water.
Process Of Choosing The Right LED Bulb For Your Light Fixtures
Color Temperature Options:
LEDs offer a wide range of color temperatures, measured in Kelvin (K). This allows you to customize the lighting to your preferences and specific needs:
* Warm White (2700-3000K):
Produces a soft, yellowish light that is cozy and inviting. Ideal for cabins, bedrooms, and areas where you want a relaxed ambiance.
* Neutral White (3500-4500K):
Also known as "daylight," this color temperature provides a clean, natural light that is excellent for tasks requiring accurate color rendering. This makes it a good choice for galleys, workspaces, and areas where you need to see details clearly.
* Bright White (5000-6500K):
Emits a bright, white or slightly bluish light that is the brightest is more vivid of the three. Many boaters prefer this color temperature for its modern look and increased visibility. Great for cockpits, navigation areas, and anywhere you need maximum illumination.
Extended Lifespan:
LEDs have a significantly longer lifespan than incandescent bulbs, often lasting tens of thousands of hours. This means fewer replacements, reduced maintenance, and long-term cost saviThe most important first step is to determine the type of bulbs currently installed in your fixtures. Remove one bulb from each different type of light fixture on your boat (overhead lights, reading lights, courtesy lights, etc.).
Read the Bulb Number:
Carefully examine the base of the removed bulb. You should find a code consisting of numbers and letters (e.g., MR16, BA15S, T10). This code identifies the bulb type.
Search for LED Replacements:
Use the bulb type number to search for LED replacements online (Amazon, marine supply stores, etc.). Add "LED" after the bulb number in your search query (e.g., "MR16 LED"). This will filter your results to show only LED bulbs that are compatible with your fixture.
Voltage:
Be sure to match the voltage of the fixture/electrical system exactly. These will range from 6 volts to 120 volts on either AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current). For most boats in the U.S. you should have 12 volt DC light fixture installed. There should be a sticker on the inside of the fixture indicating the specification required. Choosing the wrong voltage may produce a dim light or at worst damage the bulb and fixture, possibly starting a fire.
Wattage:
You can use wattage as an indicator of the amount of light a light bulb can give off when paired with its correct voltage. The higher the wattage the brighter the light will be. When upgrading to LED you can choose a wattage slightly higher than the maximum wattage than the fixture can handle. The fixture wattage will be indicated on the sticker inside the fixture along with the voltage specifications. Since LEDs consume less energy than incandescents, the LED’s have a specification that reads “50 Watt Equal” on it’s label. Which means it will produce a similar amount of light that a 50 watt incandescent will produce. Then beside this spec it will have the LED’s true wattage (the wattage the bulb actually uses) which will be far less than an equivalent incandescent bulb. This means if you require brighter light you can choose a slightly high wattage, but don't over do it too much.
Double-Check Compatibility:
Always double-check the product description to ensure the LED bulb is listed as a replacement for your existing bulb type. Pay close attention to the bulb base type to visually confirm it matches your old bulb.
Choose Your Color Temperature:
Once you've found the correct LED bulb, select your preferred color temperature (warm white, neutral white, or bright white). Consider the function of the light fixture and your personal preferences when making your decision.
Order and Test:
Order a few bulbs of each type and color temperature you're considering. When they arrive, take them to your boat and test them in each corresponding fixture. This allows you to see how the different color temperatures look in your boat's interior and make any necessary adjustments.
Installation Process:
1 Safety First:
Make sure the lights are cool to the touch before handling them.
2 Tools Required:
You'll likely need a flathead screwdriver and a temporary work light.
3 Disassembly:
Carefully disassemble the light fixture, usually by gently prying off the lens with the flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to scratch the fixture or damage the surrounding surface.
4 Bulb Removal:
These are the three bulb bases commonly used in boats with a 12 volt system but not limited too:
* Bi-Pin Type:
These bulbs have two or more prongs/pins that fit into sockets. To remove them, gently pullout straight horizontally.
* Bayonet Type:
These bulbs require you to twist them approximately 90 degrees before gently pulling them straight horizontally.
* Wedge Type:
These bulbs are similar to the Bi-Pin in how to remove. Gently pullout straight horizontally.
5 Installation:
Insert the new LED bulb into the socket, making sure it's securely in place. For the bi- pin and wedge type install simply by lining up the contacts with the socket holes and gently push the bulb straight in. For the bayonet type push and twist the bulb into the socket. As you push the bulb into the socket slightly twist one way or the other until you first feel the nubs on the bulb base fall inline with the socket then just another push and 90 degree twist and it should lock into place. I apologize if I make it sound hard or confusing but I believe anyone can do it.
6 Test:
Turn the power back on and test the new bulb. Be certain you like the color temperature, the brightness, that the bulb fits into the fixture and it won't keep the lens from reassembling. If all these boxes are checked just double check the bulb is secure at doesn't jiggle loose when you touch it. If not your good to move on!
7 Assembly:
You may want to take the opportunity to clean the lens and fixture before reassembling. Now reassemble the light fixture by inserting one side of the lens at a slight angle into the fixture. Then apply even pressure around the lens until you hear a click and/or feel the lens correctly locking into the fixture. Now be prepared to catch a falling lens as you take your hands off the fixture. Just a heads up, sometimes these lens can make the most patient person frustrated. But, if you let go of the lens and it doesn't fall. Congratulations! You have successfully ungraded your lighting system on your boat.
When to Call a Professional:
While upgrading to LED lighting is generally a DIY-friendly project, there are situations where it's best to consult with a professional:
Complex Wiring:
If you're unsure about the wiring in your boat and need new fixtures or if you encounter any complex electrical issues, it's always best to err on the side of caution and call a qualified marine electrician.
Large-Scale Upgrades:
If you're planning a complete overhaul of your boat's lighting system, a professional can help you design and install a system that meets your specific needs and budget.
Conclusion: A Brighter Future for Your Boat
Upgrading to LED lighting is one of the most impactful and cost-effective improvements you can do to your boat. By reducing energy consumption, increasing brightness, extending systems life, and enhancing the overall ambiance you will enjoy the use of your boat much more at night. There's no doubt that any boater that made the upgrade will tell you LED lighting provides a brighter, more comfortable, safer and more efficient boating experience and tany boater that has made the upgrade will . So, ditch those outdated incandescent bulbs and illuminate your boat's future with the power of LEDs. You, your family, your friends, and of course, your boat will be glad you did!
If you boat around Pittsburgh, PA we would be honored if you would consider
Out Of This World Boatworks LLC for those boat projects you may have on that never ending list. We handle this exact lighting upgrade fairly often and may already have the bulbs for your boat in stock. You can skip the guess work and avoid returns because you ordered the wrong bulbs. If your not sure what color temperature you would prefer, we can display the different bulbs in your boat for you to make a confident decision. We can also address adding for more lighting if your boat has dark spots in the cabin or cockpit areas. We would love to show you the endless LED lighting options available for your boat to really make it custom to your style and needs. Email me today: brian@outofthisworldboatworks.com
Below is a LED conversion from incandescent bulb guide by: Dr. LED
I also add a color temperature graphic to show the difference between the three most common color choices in LED bulbs below.
For your convenience, click below to download or print a PDF of the above LED conversion guide.
Happy boating!
This Blog Was Written By:
Owner & Operator Of
Out Of This World Boatworks LLC
Three Rivers Of Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Specializing In: Mobile Boat Detailing, Marine Audio, Lighting & Electronics Installations Plus Boat Maintenance & Repairs Of Pittsburgh PA & Surrounding Areas
Disclaimer:
Out Of This World Boatworks LLC, Nelson Run Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, provides information and advice on its blog and website as a service to the boating community. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, all information presented is for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional expertise or judgment.
Readers are advised to exercise caution and independent judgment when interpreting and implementing any information or advice found on our blog or website. Out Of This World Boatworks LLC explicitly disclaims any liability for injuries to persons or damages to property that may occur as a result of following any recommendations, instructions, or advice presented on our platforms. You assume full responsibility for any actions taken based on information found on our blog or website.
By accessing and using the content on our blog and website, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer. You agree to hold Out Of This World Boatworks LLC harmless from any and all claims, damages, or liabilities arising out of your use of or reliance upon the information provided. We encourage you to exercise due diligence and seek professional guidance when making decisions related to boating, safety, and legal matters.
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