Confused about changing light bulb technologyWhat are the new regulations that affect the type of bulbs that stores can sell? The American Lighting Association (ALA), provides information to simplify the process of choosing efficient, effective and cost-effective light bulbs.
Are certain types or light bulbs being banned
The word “ban”This is false. Although it is true that the 100-watt incandescent bulb won’t be made after January 2012 it is not a ban. It is more of a replacement. Every industry has a similar process. Products that are no longer efficient are replaced on the market by a new model.
“The legislation is meant to improve the efficiency of lighting,”Brian Brandes, light bulb manufacturer SATCO Products, says so. “There is nothing in the law that stipulates that CFLs (compact fluorescent lights) are the mandatory replacement. The government is not telling consumers which type of bulb to buy.”
The FTC Lighting Facts labels will be in effect from January. They will show the annual cost of operating a lamp based on an average national rate of 0.11 per Kilowatt hour.
What is the best way to replace 100-watt incandescent bulbs that I have after January?
There are many choices:
* One option is the 72-watt halogen-incandescent that is available now. Although it produces less light than the 100-watt incandescents, 72 watts is the minimum standard set by federal legislation to replace the 100-watt models. Also, it is important to choose a bulb that has a high lumen count. “warm”Color temperature, such as 2,700K or 3,000K
* Another good choice, and the least-expensive option, would be a halogen or xenon hybrid that will just meet the efficiency requirements and minimum life ratings. These bulbs will look and perform exactly the same as the 100-watt counterparts.
* A halogen IR (infrared-coated) bulb will provide higher efficiency and three times longer life than a halogen-xenon bulb, but at approximately twice the price.
* A 26-watt, medium-base CFL also offers the same amount of light as a 100-watt incandescent and uses one-quarter of the electricity. It will also last 10x longer.
Still unsure of the light bulb law and how to choose the right one? Get expert advice from ALA members in your local lighting showroom. www.americanlightingassoc.com.
