Choosing the Right Light Bulbs for Your Home
Discover the latest lighting options for homes, focusing on energy-efficient bulbs like LEDs and Halogen, following regulations that promote sustainable and bright living spaces. Learn about different bulb types, their benefits, and application areas to enhance your home's illumination while saving energy.
Choosing the Ideal Light Bulbs to Brighten Your Home
Proper lighting is essential for creating a cozy and functional living space. Over the years, the shift away from traditional incandescent bulbs has led to a variety of energy-efficient alternatives. Since the incandescent ban in the U.S. began in 2014, consumers have adopted different lighting options that deliver comparable brightness while reducing energy consumption. These bulbs vary in performance, brightness, and efficiency, with some specifically designed to optimize energy use without compromising illumination quality.
One notable organization is LUMEN, which stands for Lighting Understanding for a More Efficient Nation. Led by the American Lighting Association and collaborating with over 40 organizations, LUMEN aims to promote energy-efficient lighting solutions across the country.
Types of lighting bulbs
LEDs
Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are widely used in homes across America. These small chips are encased in plastic and combined to form a complete bulb. LEDs are highly durable, energy-efficient, and increasingly versatile, making them ideal for various residential applications such as downlights and under-cabinet lighting. The Energy Star certification ensures that LED bulbs meet high standards for efficiency and quality.
Incandescent bulbs
These traditional bulbs produce light through a filament heated by electric current. They are suited for high-brightness demands and are known for their warm, yellow glow. Although energy-efficient compared to older models, regulations like the Energy and Independence Act of 2007 have encouraged more efficient alternatives. Types include general service bulbs, which are inexpensive and widely available, reflectorized bulbs for directional lighting, PAR bulbs used for outdoor floodlights and spotlights, and tungsten-halogen bulbs that emit brighter, whiter light with a longer lifespan. Halogen bulbs come in line voltage (around 120W) and low voltage (approximately 12V) options, suitable for various lighting needs.
