Let's Talk Lighting
Today, there are more lighting options available on store shelves than ever before. Even with all the new choices, it's still simple to find the most efficient option – look for the ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY STAR means high quality and performance, particularly in the following areas:
Color Quality – Consistent white light over the rated life
Light Output – Light must meet minimum levels for replacement claims, and is maintained through the end of rated life
Efficacy – More light (lumens) for less watts, 75 percent or more
Warranty – Three year minimum warranty
There are three types of lighting – LEDs, CFLs and incandescents. LEDs better convert energy into light, and are the most energy efficient option available. LEDs also provide a much longer bulb life and may even qualify for United Power rebates.
So, What's the Difference?
LED Lighting
LED lighting, or light-emitting diodes, are now easier to incorporate into your everyday life as prices are quickly becoming more affordable. LEDs are semiconductor devices that produce visible light when an electrical current is passed through them. LEDs provide unique design opportunities, and are now being incorporated into bulbs and fixtures for general lighting applications.
CFL Lighting
In a CFL, an electric current flows between electrodes at each end of a tube containing gasses, producing ultraviolet (UV) light and heat. The light becomes visible when it strikes a phosphor coating inside the bulb. A small amount of mercury inside the bulb helps them conserve energy compared to traditional bulbs. However, proper disposal of these bulbs is important.
Incandescent Lighting
Incandescent bulbs produce light by using electricity to heat a metal filament to such a high temperature that it glows visible light, known as incandescence. As a result, these bulbs convert less than 5 percent of the energy they use into visible light. Over the years, these types of bulbs have been gradually phased out as EISA efficiency standards have been phased in over the past few years.