Since its invention more than a century ago, the incandescent light bulb has become the most widely used lighting technology in most U.S. homes. Despite its popularity, the incandescent bulb is highly inefficient and costs more to operate than many more-efficient lighting technologies. Many new and efficient bulbs also last longer, consume less energy and help reduce your impact on the environment.
Compact Fluorescent Bulbs
Compact fluorescent bulbs, or CFLs, feature a distinctive swirl shape. Despite their unique design, these bulbs can be used in almost any type of light fixture. According to the State of Michigan, they also use two-thirds less energy than incandescent bulbs and last six to 10 times longer. While CFLs cost a bit more up front, their longer life and lower operating cost can help you save $25 to $30 over the life of the bulb. Improved efficiency means you'll consume less energy, which can help reduce your reliance on fossil fuels. The longer life of these bulbs means you'll replace them less often, so fewer light bulbs will end up in landfills.
Of course, CFLs are also associated with a few potential drawbacks that should be considered before purchase. They contain mercury, which makes handling and disposal a concern. Most CFLs can't be used with dimmer switches, and some consumers may simply not like the curly shape of these bulbs.
Light-Emitting Diodes
Light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, consist of very small bulbs grouped together to form a light bulb that can be used in the home. According to Physorg, LEDs last two to five times longer than fluorescent bulbs and use just a fraction of the energy. They are considered a directional lighting source, which means they work best in recessed fixtures, track lighting or accent lights. LED bulbs are not designed for overhead fixtures or ambient lighting sources. Unlike CFLs, they work well with dimmer switches and contain no mercury. Because of the technology used in an LED bulb, they stay cool to the touch, even after hours of use.
Physorg estimates that LED bulbs have the potential to reduce the amount of energy used for lighting in the United States by as much as 30 percent by 2030.
High-Intensity Discharge Bulbs
High-intensity discharge lighting includes metal halides and high-pressure sodium lights. According to the State of Michigan, high-intensity discharge lighting is one of the most efficient options for large-scale, outdoor lighting applications. These bulbs are widely used in sports fields, stadiums, street lights and security lighting. Metal halides produce a bright, white light that makes it best-suited for applications where light quality is a primary concern. High-pressure sodium bulbs produce a pink or orange-tinted light that works best in applications where color rendering isn't important.
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