
There have been spiraled, energy-efficient bulbs on sale for a while now, and some of us even have them in our homes. While it's important to know how they differ from other types of bulbs, it's also important to know which bulb is the most suitable for the task.
On the market, there are three types of light bulbs that you can choose from: incandescent, halogen, and compact fluorescent lights (CFLs). As co-owner of The Accessory Store in Stamford, Connecticut, Mark Candido, explains the differences between the two when it comes to aesthetics and how much energy is consumed.
Incandescent Bulbs
There is no doubt that incandescent light bulbs are the traditional bulbs that we are all familiar with. As a result, they give off a warm glow, but they are relatively inefficient, and they require the most frequent replacements. When you want a cozier effect or if you want to highlight the true color of a shade, you should use an incandescent light bulb.
Halogen Bulbs
Compared to incandescent bulbs, halogen bulbs are more efficient because they provide 25 to 30 percent more light while using the same amount of electrical power. While they emit whiter light than other types of lamps, they are better suited for offices, kitchens, and for lamps with warm-colored shades, since they emit a whiter light. Additionally, they burn at a very high temperature, so if you are going to use one in a place where you might accidentally burn yourself, be sure to keep it away from that area.
CFL (Compact Fluorescent Light) Bulbs
Among the many types of lighting available, CFLs are the most efficient, and they can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes. There is no doubt that LED bulbs last a lot longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they also consume much less electricity as well compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. In spite of this, they tend to emit a cold light, which means they're most appropriate for use behind shades that will reduce the harshness of the light they emit. Additionally, these items also contain mercury, which is why you should take care when handling and disposing of them.