| Find What You Need to Know About Energy Saving Light Bulbs |
| Written by Matthew Kerridge |
| Saturday, 28 November 2009 09:34 |
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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.
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. Indeed, with these bulbs and other lighting systems, it is widely accepted that the carbon released into the environment could be cut by as much as 16 billion tons over the next 25 years. That they are recyclable too, (which traditional bulbs are not), is yet another plus point. 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. Critics also suggest that these energy saving bulbs are harmful to public health; regards the amounts of mercury they contain. However, this too is not accurate. Whilst mercury does indeed make up a part of the bulbs, it is in such a small quantity that no significant health risk can be associated. If more validation were needed; the amount of mercury released into the atmosphere by electricity producing plants would be significantly reduced, if the energy saving bulbs were taken up in sufficient numbers. There is one area where public health could be affected; those suffering from photosensitivity could well have an adverse reaction. However, LED bulbs, also energy efficient, could be used here. There used to be an argument that the new energy saving bulbs could not be attached to dimmer facilities in the home. However, this is now not the case; though these devices are a little higher in price. 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. When looking at the lumen rating, (the figure given to indicate the amount of light given off), you should look for something equal to that given on the traditional types. A rule of thumb suggests buying an energy saving bulb equal to one fifth of the wattage of a traditional bulb; for example, if you use a 60 watt bulb, an 11 watt bulb will suffice. About the Author: Matthe Kerridge is an expert in environmental sciences. If you would like further information about home improvements or are looking for a reputable home improvements service please visit Anglian Windows at http://www.anglianhome.co.uk |