LightBulb Buying Guide 101

  All you need to know to choose the right light bulb solution

With new technology emerging, you have more choices than ever when it comes to buying light bulbs. Here are some useful information for you to help you decide the types of light bulb while being energy efficient.

 

There are 4 Common Types Of Light Bulbs

 

1. Incandescent Bulbs


An incandescent bulb is the most common and inexpensive type of bulb. These light bulbs comes in a wide range of colors and styles but have much shorter life span compared to other types of lightings such as the fluorescents and LED lamps.


Due to the inefficiency, they are slowly being phased out as manufacturing stops under legislation by 2014 in the United States of America. Start making the switch to CFL, Halogen and LED bulbs now.


Pros: The warm pleasing color complements skin tones
Can be used with dimmer switches
Cheaper alternative

Cons: Use significantly more electricity
Shorter life span

 

2. Compact Fluorescent Bulbs (CFLs)


Although CFLs cost more than incandescent bulbs, they last about ten times longer than incandescent bulbs, they are more energy efficient using less wattage than incandescent. 
 

Pros: Use 1/4 of the energy of regular incandescent bulbs 
The most energy efficient of all light bulbs  and are good for your wallet.
Available in different colors - Cool, Warm and Neutral.

Cons: Cost more than incandescent bulbs but saves energy in the long run.
Cannot use them with dimmers
Takes a few seconds to power on.
Frequently turning on and off bulbs affect the bulb’s performance and life.
CFLs contain small amount of mercury so it should be dispose with care.

3. Halogen Bulbs



Halogen lights are incandescent bulbs but are more efficient than incandescent bulbs, using 25 to 30 percent less energy. They cost a little more but produce the brightest , purest light making reading easier. 


Pros: The designer light bulb choice that comes in more style options with different color temperature.
They last up to three times longer than a standard light bulb of the same voltage.
The bulbs cast light all around a room, making them good choice for lamps.
Give up light quickly and work well at low temperature.
Safer for the environment as they do not contain mercury. 



Cons: More expensive to run
Does not give off that warm glow of standard bulb we are used to
More intense glare
Short life and burns hotter 
Not as efficient as CFLs or LED light bulbs. 



4. Light-emitting diode bulbs (LED)


LED lights provide an enhanced lighting experience. It produce light through the use of semi conductors and are common for room lighting and outdoor spotlights. 
They are the long lasting and most energy efficient lighting for your homes. Brands such as Philips now offers an ultra efficient LED light bulb that will last an estimated 20 years. 

Pros: Exceptionally long lifespan, up to 5 times longer than CFL bulbs
Can last between 20 to 45 years
Extremely durable and low maintenance without filament or moving parts
Generate no heat or UV rays
Comes in variety of colors
Works with dimmers
Instantly brighten even in frigid temperature

Cons: Most expensive due to production costs though prices are dropping with demand going up.
The light can be a bit harsh since it is unidirectional
LED light bulbs are significantly more expensive but it will help make significant cost savings over time. 


You can find the range of Philips light blubs here: http://bit.ly/1aHkfXC