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What are the different types of light bulbs and their characteristics?

Overview of common bulb types and their uses.

 

Bulb Type
Description
Candelabra.png

Candelabra Bulb: The candle bulb creates a cozy and intimate lighting atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. A nostalgic and charming aura can be added to any space with it.
CFL bulb.png

Compact Fluorescent Bulb (CFL): Compared to incandescent bulbs, these bulbs use only a quarter of the energy and last ten times longer. Mercury is the only concern with CFL bulbs. Dispose of them immediately if they break and keep them out of reach of children.
Radio bulb.png

Edison Bulb: Edison bulbs are a great choice if you're looking to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space with a warm, vintage glow. Edison bulbs, also known as vintage or antique light bulbs, are designed to replicate the look of the original bulbs created by Thomas Edison over a century ago.
Globe.png

Globe Bulb: Globe bulbs get their name from their spherical shape. It is a popular choice for adding a bright and elevated feel to a room when using globe bulbs.
Incandescent.png

Incandescent Bulb: There are many types of household light bulbs, but incandescent bulbs are the most common. Light produced by these bulbs is warm and inviting, making them ideal for use in households. They can usually be dimmed and have a lifespan of 700 to 1,000 hours, but they are not as energy efficient as some alternatives. In most cases, it is referred to as a Medium/Standard A bulb.
LED .png

Light Emitting Diode Bulb (LED): Long-lasting and extremely energy-efficient, this bulb is a great choice. Rather than providing ambient lighting, LED bulbs emit directional light.

Important Note

What's Happening with Incandescent Bulbs?

United States — Phase-Out in Effect (2023)

  • Starting August 1, 2023, the U.S. banned the manufacture and sale of most standard incandescent light bulbs, thanks to updated efficiency regulations requiring at least 45 lumens per watt performance Forbes+15smithsonianmag.com+15Wikipedia+15.

  • These standards are expected to save consumers nearly $3 billion in energy costs annually and reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 222 million metric tons over 30 years Architectural Digest+2smithsonianmag.com+2.

  • However, specialty incandescent bulbs—such as appliance lamps, bug lights, grow lights, outdoor floodlights, and colored or chandelier bulbs—are exempt and may still be sold CBS News+9Wikipedia+9US EPA+9.

Ongoing Efficiency Requirements

A Shifting Regulatory Landscape

  • Former President Trump has publicly announced intentions to roll back Biden-era restrictions, including those affecting light bulb standards theverge.compolitico.comnypost.com.

    • Important caveat: The EPA cannot unilaterally overturn DOE rules; the Department of Energy, guided by Congress, implements and enforces energy-efficiency standards.

    • As of now, no formal policy change or repeal of the 2023 incandescent ban has been enacted—these statements are intentions, not regulations in force politico.comtheverge.com.

Global Trend

  • Many countries—including those in the EU, Canada, Australia, and others—have enacted or are phasing out traditional incandescent bulbs as part of a global shift toward energy-efficient lighting