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Good Question: How Much Do LED Lights Save?

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Holidays are full of tradition, like decorating with Christmas lights.

Many stores are moving away from traditional lights and selling LED lights which are considered "greener."

That got us wondering, what do LEDs really save us?

Lights are sparking a debate on Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis.

The traditionalists can stick to the trees that line the street. The city said they're dotted with old fashioned lights because they're still working just fine.

But when it comes to Holidazzle Parade -- which runs down the Nicollet Mall during December -- all 300 costumes in the parade shine because of LEDs.

Workers converted the Capt. Hook float this year and it is now twinkling with the help of 8,000 LED lights.

LED lights don't burn as hot, they're not as heavy, and in the long run, save you more money on energy.

"They're actually 10 times less costly than the regular incandescent lamp," said electrician Mark Chemensky.

He said people shouldn't let the sticker shock fool them.

"They are more expensive, but as the technology evolves ... the price will be coming down," he said. "Let's say you have them for three seasons, you're going to be saving from there on out. Also the bulb lasts a lot longer and they're more durable, so it's a much better light."

Chemensky said another plus to a big project. You can string more LEDs together and you shouldn't trip a breaker, because the LEDs load is lighter.

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