Ask the Energy Expert

Illuminating the facts: How different light bulbs impact energy use and savings

Customers often wonder if their choice of light bulbs can impact their monthly energy bills.

The simple answer is: Absolutely! Let’s explore how different light bulbs affect energy use and identify the best options for saving money.

Traditional vs. newer efficient bulbs

In the past, homes were filled with inefficient, incandescent bulbs that wasted energy as heat. Then came compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), which were more efficient but contained mercury. Now, the champion of efficiency is the light-emitting diode (LED) bulb.

LEDs convert electricity directly into light with minimal heat loss, resulting in substantial savings on electricity bills.

Benefits of LED Bulbs:

• Energy efficient: LEDs use much less energy than incandescent and CFL bulbs, lowering electricity bills.
• Long lifespan: Lasting up to 25,000 hours, LEDs reduce the need for frequent replacements.
• Instant brightness: LEDs reach full brightness immediately, ideal for quick lighting needs.
• Versatile: Available in various color temperatures and styles to fit different preferences.
• Lower heat emission: Emit minimal heat, helping to reduce cooling costs.

Although the LED bulb may initially cost more, it lasts much longer and uses significantly less energy, resulting in substantial savings on your electricity bill over time. When choosing light bulbs, it’s important to understand the difference between wattage and lumens.

Understanding Wattage and Lumens:

• Wattage: Indicates the amount of electricity a bulb consumes. Traditionally, higher wattage meant brighter light, but for LEDs, brightness is not solely determined by wattage.

• Lumens: Measure the brightness of a bulb. Higher lumens means brighter light. Focus on lumens, not wattage, to achieve the desired brightness with less energy use.

Switching to LED bulbs is the clear choice for improving energy efficiency, saving money on electric bills and contributing to a more sustainable future.