A relatively simple and inexpensive method to increase the operational lifetime of semiconductor laser diode elements and light emitting diodes (LEDs) is disclosed. The semiconductor laser diode element is placed in contact with a non-electrically conductive, chemically inert liquid. Preferably the liquid is a perfluorinated liquid. This results in a dramatically increased operational lifetime for the semiconductor laser diode element by preventing damaging heat build up to vulnerable areas of the laser diode element, such as the p-n junction. This method can work with the liquid being either static or flowing. The disclosed method can be used when the semiconductor laser diode element is used either as a laser itself or when it is used to optically pump another lasing element. The liquid can also be in contact with the lasing element, collimating lens, sub-mounts, or thermoelectric coolers in a lasing assembly. In a similar manner the operational lifetime and the range of power usage of an LED can be dramatically increased by placing the LED in contact with the non-electrically conductive, chemically inert liquid. Preferably the liquid is a perfluorinated liquid. The liquid can either be static or flowing. It is anticipated that this improvement will permit high power applications such as vehicle headlights to become powered by LEDs.