Twenty years ago, a light bulb was a light bulb. However, thanks to recent advances in energy efficiency, today’s homeowners have more options than ever when it comes to lighting their home.

The three most common types of light bulbs are incandescent, CFLs, and LEDs. If this all sounds like a foreign language, don’t worry. The experts from TFC Electric are here to break down each type of light bulb in order to determine which is best for your home.

Incandescent Light Bulbs

Not that long ago, incandescent bulbs were the only type of lighting available on the market. These lights work by heating a filament to the point that it glows, producing the bulb’s light. These bulbs are extremely inefficient, and in 2007 Congress passed an act to phase out the production and sales of incandescent lights.

• Average lifespan of 1,200 hours
• Consumes 3,285 kilowatt hours of electricity per year
• Emits 85 BTUs of heat per hour

Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Compact fluorescent lights (or CFLs) utilize an electric current which flows through a tube containing gases. This process creates ultraviolet light which quickly transforms into visible light. CFLs are much more efficient than incandescent lighting, however they may take a few seconds to “warm up” and cannot be used with a dimmer switch.

• Average lifespan of 8,000 hours
• Consumes 767 kilowatt hours of electricity per year
• Emits 30 BTUs of heat per hour

Light Emitting Diodes

Light emitting diode (or LED) light bulbs work by passing an electrical current through a semiconductor material to illuminate tiny diodes. LEDs are the newest type of lighting, and by far the most efficient. They used to cost more than $100 per bulb, but thanks to a major cost reduction (bulbs can now be purchased for under $10), they are increasing in popularity across the country.

• Average lifespan of 50,000 hours
• Consumes 329 kilowatt hours of electricity per year
• Emits 3 BTUs of heat per hour

TFC Electric provides residential and commercial electrician services to homes and businesses across Suffolk County, Long Island. With more than 20 years of experience and a 98% A-rating on Angie’s List, don’t look any further than us for your next electrical project. Contact us online to get started with a free estimate, or call (631) 589-2800.