Light bulb decoder

(NC) – Looking to save some green on lighting but confused by all the light bulbs on the market today? One of the most sustainable investments you can make in your home today is to replace your inefficient bulbs with eco-friendly lighting.

Advances in technology have led the way to better options but have left some consumers in the dark. Here’s a little primer to help light your way:

Incandescent: This is a standard bulb; one of the first household bulbs brought to market…and currently found in almost every retail store. Although they cast a nice warm shade of light, and can be used with a dimmer, they are not energy efficient. The environmental concerns of consumers and government regulations are slowly phasing them out of existence.

Halogen: This is technically an incandescent bulb, but has three features that make them superior to standard incandescent bulbs. They are brighter, whiter, and last longer. The energy saving option available from Philips; the Halogena Energy Saver (HES) saves up to 30 per cent in energy costs and provides a longer life than standard incandescent bulbs.

Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs): These are a very energy efficient lighting option using up to 75 per cent less energy than incandescent bulbs; some can last for years before you need to change them. They’re slightly more expensive than incandescent bulbs but since their life span is so much longer, they’re more economical. Stick to quality products like Philips family of EnergySaver options of indoor and outdoor bulbs.

Light Emitting Diodes (LED): This advanced new technology delivers outstanding efficiency and extra long life without the mercury/lead content, UV or heat. Energy savings from these innovative bulbs is up to 80 per cent. They provide a bright, white light, are now dimmable and will last longer than any other bulb on the market. Again, lighting experts like Philips have an amazing selection of LED products to enhance the home, save you energy and money.

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