What are the Greenest Light Bulbs to use?

09-Nov-2011

Not long ago the only light bulbs available were incandescent bulbs, despite the fact that they were inefficient at producing electricity and in escence the technology had not changed since their invention 125 years ago.

Australia passed legislation that mandated the phase-out of incandescents by 2010, replacing them broadly with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). CFLs use a fifth the amount of energy as the incandescents and have a 6-10 times longer life. Other than the light colour, inability to dim the lights and cost of CFLs have been barriers, but the most significant barrier and concern in adopting this technology is that they contact Mercury. Mercury is a dangerous neurotoxin that is released when the bulbs break. At this time or end of life, the CFLs have to be disposed of use Toxic Waste Management procedures to prevent contaminating the environment. Caution must also be taken when handling CFL light bulbs.

Tiny LED bulbs have bee around for many years and commonly used in push bike light, stadium scoreboards and torches are becoming a viable alternative. Engineers got the idea of clustering them and using reflective casings to harness and concentrate their lighting effect for residential use.

In a recent comparison of costs between the three types of 60-watt equivalent bulbs for 50,000 hours, factoring in the cost of bulbs and electricity, the Greenliving website found LEDs would cost US$95.95, CFLS US$159.75 and incandescents US$652.50.

Top bulb makers recently release new versions that use as much as 33 per cent less electricity to operate and promise newer models that will operate using less energy. Check your stores for new 65 watt equivalent bulbs in your retailers.

For more information about keeping your family SAFE from Mercury contamination and correct disposal of CFLs.

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