In 2013, a new law was passed banning incandescent 100 watt and 75 watt bulbs. Well, it’s a new year and there is a new law for 2014, this one stopping the production of 60 Watt and 40 Watt Incandescent Bulbs. Why?
“The old incandescent bulbs caused the power plants to emit more pollution,” explains TriStar Electric owner Dave Crawford. “Plus they do not last as long, resulting in more trash and waste.”
Incandescent bulbs also create a ton of heat, which, along with the pollution from the overworked power plants, contributes to global warming.
“The CFL bulbs are better than incandescent,” explains Crawford. “But TriStar Electric recommends switching straight to the more expensive LED bulbs.”
Make the Switch from Incandescent Bulbs to Energy Efficient LED Bulbs
LED bulbs not only use less wattage than other bulbs on the market, but they also produce less heat, last longer, and help to lessen your impact on the environment. While these bulbs may cost more initially than incandescent bulbs or CFL bulbs, they will save you money in the long run, specifically on your electricity bills. And when you consider that high-end LED bulbs, such as Cree, last 30,000-50,000 hours (12-15 years if used 8-10 hours a day, seven days a week), the initial investment seems well worth it.
Best of all, LED light bulbs are now available to fit most all sockets such as standard A19, candle style, MR16, and interior and exterior flood bulbs of many sizes and wattages.
LED Bulbs for Interior Usage
“These bulbs are also great to use in those high and hard to reach locations such as recessed lights and other fixtures that are on high vaulted ceilings,” explains Crawford.“When purchasing LED bulbs for your home or business, remember to look for bulbs that are both dimmable and have a color “K” value of 2,800 (no more than 3,400 K).This will provide a warm white color similar to incandescent bulbs while saving you money.
The Lumens are what you want to look for as far as light output when comparing LED bulbs to incandescent bulbs. With LED bulbs you will get higher Lumens with less wattage.
LED Bulbs for Exterior Usage
We also recommend these for exterior flood lights that are higher up and also to prevent early burnout on security lights that protect your home and business. “
The “K” value is not as important for outdoor security lighting, but we still recommend staying under the 5,000 K range. The higher the “K” range the whiter and more blue the light will look.
LED bulbs have come a long way in a short period of time and are becoming more affordable every day as technology advances.
Make the Switch from Incandescent Bulbs to Energy Efficient LED Bulbs
“We recommend that you do a little research before buying what appears to be a cheap imitation and poor quality LED bulb,” says Crawford.
TriStar Electric can help! Our team is extremely knowledgeable about energy efficient lighting – both CFL and LED bulbs – and our electricians stay up-to-date on the most recent trends in the lighting industry. TriStar Electric also carries energy efficient lighting accessories, including dimmer switches, recessed lighting, and lighting controls.
Feel free to contact TriStar for your free in-home lighting and energy saving evaluation. We have helped thousands of homeowners and business owners switch from traditional to energy efficient lighting. Let us guide you to a brighter future with more money in your pocket.
If you have any questions about making the switch from Incandescent Bulbs to Energy Efficient LED Bulbs, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880 or fill out the contact form on our website. You can also follow TriStar Electric on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and YouTube.