How to choose energy-efficient light bulbs
Old-style light bulbs are now on their way out. Although cheap to buy, they burn out easily and often flicker. And are not able to be recycled. Plus they are not efficient, converting just 5% of electricity to light.
Although more expensive, LED (light emitting diodes) light bulbs which cost around £20 can last up to 20 years. And save around £40 a year on energy, for standard households.
They also eliminate problems like flickering (if you have a bulb that takes a while to come on, this will also be solved if you switch).
Safety tips for using light bulbs
Flickering bulbs can also be due to loose wires, overloaded circuits, faulty electrics or incompatible dimmers. Consult a qualified electrician.
Turn lights off when not in use, use task lights and blinds, and avoid facing indoor foliage to outside gardens, all these tips help to stop birds flying into windows.
If you use dimmer switches, LED light bulbs need specific models, to avoid flickering or buzzing. So always check that the bulbs you choose are ‘compatible with dimmers’.
Which energy efficient bulbs to choose?
- LED light bulbs have typical lifespans of 25,000 to 50,000 hours, so choose carefully before purchase.
- Go for a brand like Phillips Hue for safety and effectiveness.
- Experts say that warm white bulbs are best for eye comfort (so good for bedrooms and lounges).
- Cooler white bulbs are better for offices, kitchens and bathrooms.
How to know which lumens to choose
LED bulbs are not measured in watts, so you have to get to know your lumens instead! A quick guide:
- 400 lumens: Soft, gentle light for bedrooms
- 800 lumens: Standard brightness for lounges
- 1,100+ lumens: Bright light for kitchens or workspaces
Tips for natural light in rooms
- Remove unwanted furniture, to flood natural light into rooms.
- Dust lampshades and other fittings, to help increase the light.
- Paint your walls in a light neutral colour.
- Position lamps at eye level, to spread soft light.
- Use wall lights or uplighters to bounce light off ceilings and walls.
How to recycle (old and new) light bulbs
- Older light bulbs contain mercury and lead, which could pollute soil or water if broken or dumped on landfills. Alas they can’t be recycled, so wrap securely in thick paper, and bin.
- LED light bulbs however can be recycled, enter your postcode at Recycle Now to find out where.
- Many hardware stores and supermarkets now have bulb recycling bins.
If an LED bulb smashes
Evacuate the room and leave windows open for at least 15 minutes. Then turn off central heating (or air conditioning) to stop vapour from spreading. Do not use a vacuum cleaner, as this scatters mercury dust into the air.
Wear gloves to scoop shards with stiff cardboard, then use sticky tape to pick up fragments, wipe area with damp paper towel.
