For most greenies-in-training, one the first steps they take to green their home is to switch out traditional incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent ones. Well, if you have any experience purchasing CFLs you know that it isn’t as easy as grabbing the first package you see. There is definitely a difference in just about every brand and type of CFL. So what’s behind this new trend of CFLs and how do you pick the right one?
Mayer Electric in Birmingham has offered a run down of what you need to know to be an educated (or at least not as clueless) CFL consumer!
Out With The Old, In With The New
In case you didn’t know, the incandescent bulb is being legislated out by our government. Their message to the lamp manufacturing industry; make them 25 to 35% more efficient, or don’t make them at all. The energy bill has shaken up the industry and, according to most experts, will result in the elimination of the incandescent bulb within the next five years. In addition, local municipalities have begun adopting a new building code that requires a minimum of fifty percent of lamps installed in permanent light fixtures be energy efficient. There is not an incandescent lamp currently on the market that meets the criteria. Long story short, one way or the other, you’re going to have to be more energy conscious.
Understanding the new regulation gives you two choices; start stockpiling incandescent lamps or begin manufacturing your own lamps illegally in your basement – neither of which we recommend. It is time to begin looking at options and deciding which is best for you.
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