Change your outdoor light bulbs and save 70 - 80% on electricity

Incandescent and halogen lighting is extremely energy-INefficient compared to Compact Florescent (CFL) and Light Emitting Diode (LED) technologies, which are now widely available at reasonable prices in all base sizes, bulb styles and lumen strengths. It is for this reason that many countries have outlawed incandescent bulbs, and the US is following suit by outlawing them gradually. In my opinion this cannot happen fast enough.

It amazes me that many residents continue to use incandescent bulbs for their OUTDOOR lighting. Outdoor fixtures typically burn for many hours each night, and many fixtures use three or more bulbs. Incandescent and halogen bulbs are cheap to buy and look good, which is why contractors and retailers still favor them. However, there are other concerns. Even though CFL’s and LED’s cost more to purchase, they use 70-80% less electricity than incandescents and last 5-20 times longer, therefore they pay for themselves many times over, while saving the owner the inconvenience of having to change bulbs.

Approximately 75% of the US’s electricity is generated from fossil fuels. The effects on our environment are tangible and will be an increased burden on future generations, especially if we do not change our habits.

Some consumers do not like the hue of light produced by the new bulbs. Even though the variety and quality of light produced by the new bulbs continues to improve, this should not be a concern for your outdoor lighting. If you think incandescent and halogen look better, consider that there are a growing number of us who view a home with antiquated outdoor lighting as a clear sign of a resident who either does not have a clue, or does not care about the greater good. Just because you can afford to be wasteful should not give you carte blanche to do so.

Of course, it is wise to change all of your home’s lighting to the new technology, and outdoors is perhaps the best place to start.