This guest post is by Lou Manfredini, Ace Hardware’s Home Expert
The incandescent light bulb was and still is a terrific invention. It transformed the way we live. However, in recent years technology developments have created lighting options that are more energy efficient and cost effective in the long run. As incandescent light bulbs begin to phase out this year, you will need to transition to energy-efficient light bulbs which may leave you asking yourself, what are my options?
Lighting Options
Compact Florescent Lights (CFLs)
When it comes to what type of bulb you should use and where, there are a variety of options to chose from. Compact Florescent Lights or CFLs are energy-efficient alternatives to conventional incandescent bulbs. On average, they use about 75% less electricity than an incandescent bulb with the same light output and last about 10 times longer. The standard spiral CFL such as the G.E.® 13 Watt Spiral CFL ($4.49), can be used in almost any fixture – vertical or upside down. However, if you do not like the look of spiral CFLs there are covered options that look like traditional bulbs such as the G.E.® Energy Smart® CFL Aline ($7.99). These cost slightly more, but the energy savings are the same. Within the CFL line you can also buy three-way units and bulbs that can be dimmed such as the G.E.® Spiral Dimmable CFL Bulb ($17.49).
Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
Light-Emitting Diodes or LEDs offer many of the same options as CFLs, but are smaller in size, dramatically more energy efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs and give off a very bright light. Additionally, they produce minimal heat and do not contain mercury.
The cost for these bulbs is considerably higher than CFL options but they use half of the electricity and will last up to 50,000 hours. LED bulbs are best for hard to reach fixtures, since they don’t have to be changed as often, like floodlights. I recommend the G.E.® Energy Smart LED Accent PAR30 ($45.99).
Energy Efficient Halogen Light Bulbs
A third alternative are general-purpose halogen light bulbs. These bulbs, such as the G.E.® A19 43W Halogen Bulbs ($3.99 for a pack of 2), perform and look most like the traditional incandescent bulb but are 25% more efficient. Many consumers are unaware that these bulbs are a great energy efficient alternative. Due to their traditional look and lower price point, they will most likely become a popular choice among homeowners making the switch.
Lumens vs. Wattages
As you transition your lighting needs in 2012, you will now buy bulbs according to the lumen output, instead of wattages. A lumen equals candle power. That means 800 lumens is the same as 800 candles burning and the light they would emit one foot away from the object or area it is supposed to illuminate. Cool right?
Approximate Standard Light Bulb Lumen Equivalencies
| 40 watt bulb | 310-750 lumens |
| 60 watt bulb | 750-1050 lumens |
| 75 watt bulb | 1050-1490 lumens |
| 100 watt bulb | 1500-2600 lumens |
No matter what type of energy-efficient light bulb you choose to install you will save a substantial amount of energy to light your home or business all while reaping long-term cost savings. As you venture into new and different lighting technology, Ace Hardware is here to help light the way. With over 4,500 retail stores across the country, Ace offers a full selection of new lighting options, including the ones suggested above, and helpful associates to guide you to the right bulbs. For more lighting and home maintenance tips, visit www.acehardware.com.
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