There is always something inviting about a well-lit, warm, and cozy home. The ambiance, décor, and allure of a well-lit home combine to create an alluring and comfortable space. However, to create the perfect lighting, you need to choose the most suitable light bulbs. Using the right light bulbs not only gives you control of your home’s look but also saves you some serious money on your energy bill every month as your home becomes more energy efficient.
Unfortunately, lighting has many variables, including color, brightness, energy efficiency, and lifetime, making it confusing to know which bulb is the best for your needs. To help you out, here is a breakdown of the different types of light bulbs and their best use.
4 Types of Light Bulbs
Proper lighting is the difference between a washed-out, lifeless home and a bright, inviting one. There are four types of light bulbs, each with its benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to know which bulb type is best for the space you are trying to light.
Incandescent Light Bulbs
The traditional incandescent light bulbs are the most common type of bulb found in homes. They are identified by the small, clear glass envelope filled with a filament that glows when electricity runs through it.
These bulbs are usually used in lamps and sconces to produce general ambient lighting. Incandescent light bulbs are inefficient, using up to 90% more energy than LED light bulbs, and have a shorter lifespan.
Incandescent light bulbs are best suited for low-traffic areas such as the attic, heater closets, or the basement, where lighting is not needed for long periods. This ensures your energy bills are kept low while still providing the necessary amount of light.
Light-Emitting Diode (LED)
LED light bulbs are the most energy-efficient type of bulb available as they use 90% less energy than incandescent light bulbs and last 25 times longer. They emit instant, crisp, bright light that doesn’t give off any heat.
LEDs are available in several shapes, sizes, and colors, making them a versatile option for any space. Since they provide light in a specific direction, you can use them in directional fixtures such as track lights, recessed lighting, and downlights.
LED light bulbs are an excellent option for general lighting in high traffic areas such as the living room, kitchen, and bathroom. They are also ideal for task lighting, such as reading lamps and night lights.
Compact Fluorescent (CFL)
Compact fluorescent light bulbs are a more energy-efficient alternative to incandescent light bulbs. CFLs are identified by the spiral fluorescent tube filled with argon and mercury. When electricity flows through the tube, it excites the mercury vapor and creates ultraviolet light. This light then bounces off the phosphor coating on the inside of the tube and creates visible light.
CFLs come in various shapes, sizes, and colors and are available with a variety of different bases. They are best suited for general lighting in the living room, kitchen, and basements. Unlike incandescent bulbs, they use 75% less energy and last ten times longer. You will want to handle CFLs carefully as they contain mercury, which can be harmful if released into the environment.
Halogen
Halogen light bulbs are an incandescent bulb type that uses a tungsten filament and halogen gas to produce light. They are identified by the small, clear glass envelope filled with a filament that glows when electricity runs through it. Halogen bulbs produce a brighter light, slightly more efficient than traditional incandescent light bulbs.
They are the least durable of the four light bulb types, with only 2,000 hours of life. However, they warm up quickly, so avoid placing them near fire-hazardous materials. They are great for pendant lights, under cabinet lighting, and recessed lighting.
Final Thoughts
When choosing suitable light bulbs for your home, it’s crucial to consider the type of bulb, the size, and the amount of light you need. Different light bulbs consume different amounts of energy, so it’s essential to choose the most energy-efficient bulb for your needs to keep your bills low.
LEDs are the most energy-efficient bulb, consuming 95% less energy than incandescent bulbs. While you can change your light bulbs, partnering with a professional electrician provides the best value, safety, and assurance that the job is done correctly.
At Coastal Mechanical Contractors, we are a fully licensed and insured electrical contractor providing affordable and reliable residential electrical needs to South Louisiana residents. Call us today for a free estimate!