More Light Bulb Changes

Earlier this week, we blogged about the changes in incandescent lights bulbs for 2014.  Many customers are also confused about the other changes that have already affected them. 

In respect to the standard fluorescent tube type bulbs, most commonly found in your garage or basement.  The older 1-1/2” diameter bulbs have been eliminated from manufacturing (many places stocked up before the law came into effect, such as as we did).  The standard 4 and 8 foot bulbs that are considered T12 type bulbs must be replaced with either skinnier T8 or T5 bulbs.  But you just can’t put these newer bulbs in your older fixture.  Either you will need to replace the bulbs AND the ballast, or may be more cost effective to just replace the entire fixture.

Probably the most confusing and little known regulation that came in effect by Department of Energy is the restriction of Halogen PAR bulbs, between 40-205 watts.  These are typically found in recessed lighting, outside flood lights, even the spot light that many light their wreaths & doors with during the holidays. Instead of a straight-forward replacement, there are now minimum lumen per watt standards for each type of bulb size, voltage and wattage.  So, as an example what used to be your standard 100W halogen bulb, the replacement can range any where from 70-90 watts.  Just asking for a 100w bulb anymore may not be the same light output from one manufacturer to another.  Check the label carefully and compare not just wattage, but the lumens as well.  While one bulb may emit 750 lumens, the exact same wattage with a different bulb could emit 900 lumens.  This can be a very confusing and complicated transition for even the most experienced electrician, never mind the average user.

If you have any questions about these light bulb changes, or need assistance in determining what bulbs will fit your needs, come on down and ask us at Welden Hardware.