How to Choose the Best Energy Efficient Lightbulb for Your Lamp

Are you ready to go green? This doesn’t mean you have to spend a ton of your own green. A simple and inexpensive way to start the transition to a more environmentally friendly lifestyle is to switch out some of your bulbs for energy efficient lightbulbs.

According to Energy.Gov, “Switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the fastest ways to cut your energy bills.” Not only will you be helping out the environment, but you will also be helping out your own pockets! 

Here are four different types of bulbs that you can compare to find the perfect fit for your lamps.

1 Incandescent

Benefits: These are the least expensive kind of light bulbs, which also makes them have high availability.

Drawbacks: They are not as energy efficient as other bulbs, are fragile and do not last long.

2 Halogen

Benefits: These bulbs use less energy than regular incandescent lights and cast a very intense, bright light. They also do not contain any substances, such as mercury, that could be dangerous if broken.

Drawbacks: Halogen bulbs have a fairly short lifespan and according to ProQuip International, “ A Halogen uses tungsten filaments to produce light which consequently produce a lot of heat to the point where flammable materials can be effected if near the lamp.” 

3 Compact Fluorescent Bulbs (CFLs)

Benefits: According to Thomas Lighting, “Fluorescents use 20-40% less electricity and can last up to 20 times longer than incandescent bulbs.”

Drawbacks: They contain mercury, so must be handled with caution.

4 Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)

Benefits: LED lights are extremely energy efficient and last longer than any other light bulb.

Drawbacks: “They provide only directional light, not diffused light, making them ideal for under-counter task lighting, but not general room illumination,” according to HGTV. If you want to purchase clusters of LED lights, they are more expensive than alternative light sources. 

It’s time to swap out those light bulbs that are running up your electricity bills and install some that are not only going to save you money in the long run, but are better for the environment as well!