Even though LED lights are generally the most expensive bulbs at the counter (they can cost anywhere between $5 and $20 for a standard bulb), they use about 75 per cent less energy than halogen light bulbs. That’s according to the Australian Government’s Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) program, which aims to improve energy efficiency in Australia and New Zealand.

You can also make your money back faster than you think. The upfront cost of LEDs generally has a payback time of less than a year.

The long-term payoff is even more promising. In fact, the average household could save $102 per year by replacing 10 halogens with LEDs and expect to save about $1020 over a decade on their electricity bill.

There’s more light at the end of the tunnel if you decide to switch. LEDs last five to 10 times longer than halogen bulbs, which means you don’t have to replace bulbs as often.

Most households can reduce the amount of energy they use for lighting by 50 per cent or more through smarter choices and moving to more efficient technologies.

Next time you’re about to buy a halogen bulb, think about how much it could cost to run – and how long it’ll last before you need to buy a replacement – so you can make a smarter choice for your home, the environment and your wallet.