subject: Economical Replacements For Traditional Screw Light Bulbs [print this page] Some of the most common light fixtures in the UK use screw light bulbs. In most homes there is at least one of these fittings and each usually holds from one to five bulbs. In addition, many table and floor lamps use the exact same light bulbs. These bulbs are very inexpensive to buy, however traditional bulbs with screw fittings are not the most economical choice.
While most manufacturers have lowered the wattage of the screw light bulb by a certain extent for a reduction in overall energy with negligible loss of light, there are now more economical choices that will fit into existing fixtures.
Most CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) offer a much longer life than even the longest lasting incandescent bulbs. While the initial purchase price may be more than an incandescent bulb, the longer life may well more than pay for the difference. Additionally, remember that you are getting the same amount of light for at a much lower wattage, cutting down in energy cost.
For many years a circular florescent tube bulbs have been available that screw into a normal light socket. These were designed for use in lamps and in open sockets. They were normal florescent tubes bent in a circle and attached to the screw fitting. In lamps they were usually able to fit inside the shade. These florescent lights never became overly popular, but the new energy efficient versions are becoming increasingly widely used.
The compact florescent lamp is about the size of a normal florescent lamp. It fits in the same space as most standard lamps and provides the same light without unnecessary energy consumption. These lamps can be expected to last up to ten times as long as a normal light bulb. Prices have dropped so that these lamps are often available for much lower prices than a buyer would anticipate. It produces less heat and can be used in almost any normal light socket, even those enclosed with a globe. Like other florescent lamps, the compact florescent lamps do not produce a full spectrum of light and some people may have difficulty with them.
LED lamps are some of the most energy efficient and longest lasting lamps available. Some LEDs come as screw light bulbs and are designed to fit in existing fixtures. They offer a very high quality full spectrum light and are extremely energy efficient. Already these lights are replacing many of the lights used at Christmas time and in garden lights. However, the lamps for use inside the home to replace those in common sockets remain quite expensive. However, it is reasonable to assume that as innovation continues and consumer interest increases, LEDs will drop in price.
Pressure is being put on both individuals and businesses to use the most energy efficient technologies available. This trend is set to continue and new ways of conserving resources are sure to emerge as time goes by. In the mean time, it is good to know that there are energy efficient options for screw light bulbs that benefit both consumers and the environment.
