As the world desperately tries to reduce its impact on the environment, there is a real commitment to increase the uptake of energy saving bulbs. That they produce the same amount of light, whilst using just 70% of electricity, it is not hard to see why.
Together with other energy efficient lighting systems, it is estimated by International bodies that these bulbs could cut 16 billion tons from the amount of carbon released into the environment over the next two and a half decades.
More good news too, lies in the fact that the bulbs are recyclable; something which is simply not possible with traditional bulbs types.
Detractors do of course exist, though their arguments are seldom justified. For example, they suggest that the increased amount of energy used to make the bulbs will be more harmful. However, this increase has not been fully ratified and, that they last ten times as long as traditional bulbs, any losses will be more than recovered.
Detractors also argue the bulbs are damaging to the public's health. Again this is untrue. The argument centers on the use of mercury in the bulbs. However, the mercury used is in such low levels, no health risks are suggested by all leading global authorities.
Indeed, far higher levels of mercury are produced by energy plants and, as these bulbs use less electricity to operate, there is less mercury released into the atmosphere too.
One health issue however is known about and acknowledged. The bulbs can cause issues for those with photosensitive skin. However, LEDs can be used well in this regards, and is no major argument against their use in most public areas.
One area where the critics did certainly stand on higher ground was regards the inability of energy saving bulbs to be attached to dimmer switches. However, over recent years this has been addressed, though a slightly higher price will need to be paid at the point of sale.
Choosing which bulbs to buy is fairly straight forward; particularly with the wealth of information and advice readily available online, in store and through state sponsored initiatives.
The amount of light the bulb gives off, the lumen rating, should be checked, which should be equal the figure given on the traditional bulb.
Whilst all advice should be sought, and research completed to ensure the best possible product is bought, it is generally accepted that buying an energy saving bulb one fifth the wattage of a traditional bulb will be sufficient. - 29956
Together with other energy efficient lighting systems, it is estimated by International bodies that these bulbs could cut 16 billion tons from the amount of carbon released into the environment over the next two and a half decades.
More good news too, lies in the fact that the bulbs are recyclable; something which is simply not possible with traditional bulbs types.
Detractors do of course exist, though their arguments are seldom justified. For example, they suggest that the increased amount of energy used to make the bulbs will be more harmful. However, this increase has not been fully ratified and, that they last ten times as long as traditional bulbs, any losses will be more than recovered.
Detractors also argue the bulbs are damaging to the public's health. Again this is untrue. The argument centers on the use of mercury in the bulbs. However, the mercury used is in such low levels, no health risks are suggested by all leading global authorities.
Indeed, far higher levels of mercury are produced by energy plants and, as these bulbs use less electricity to operate, there is less mercury released into the atmosphere too.
One health issue however is known about and acknowledged. The bulbs can cause issues for those with photosensitive skin. However, LEDs can be used well in this regards, and is no major argument against their use in most public areas.
One area where the critics did certainly stand on higher ground was regards the inability of energy saving bulbs to be attached to dimmer switches. However, over recent years this has been addressed, though a slightly higher price will need to be paid at the point of sale.
Choosing which bulbs to buy is fairly straight forward; particularly with the wealth of information and advice readily available online, in store and through state sponsored initiatives.
The amount of light the bulb gives off, the lumen rating, should be checked, which should be equal the figure given on the traditional bulb.
Whilst all advice should be sought, and research completed to ensure the best possible product is bought, it is generally accepted that buying an energy saving bulb one fifth the wattage of a traditional bulb will be sufficient. - 29956
About the Author:
Matthe Kerridge is an expert in environmental sciences. If you would like more information about home improvements or are looking for a reputable home improvements company please visit Anglian Windows at http://www.anglianhome.co.uk
