Friday, July 10, 2015

(Family Features)--Just like many products, when it comes to purchasing new light bulbs, nothing beats the in-store experience. Seeing the difference in lighting has a stronger impact than online reviews from other consumers or experts.

In fact, the 7th annual Socket Survey from OSRAM SYLVANIA found that most Americans determine which bulb they need based on information learned from product packaging, in-store displays or from store employees.

Confusing lighting options

As a bright new era of lighting technology is ushered in, the array of energy-efficient choices can be somewhat overwhelming. Choosing new or replacement bulbs includes options for color temperature, tunable white light, applications and more - and newer technologies are more prevalent on store shelves after the incandescent phase-out.

While Americans are familiar with these lighting technologies, choosing the right product may be confusing. The main options to choose from in the lighting aisle include:

* Halogen bulbs are essentially incandescents with a small amount of gas inside, making them more efficient. These bulbs offer a range of color quality from bright white to a familiar warm light of traditional incandescents.

* Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) use up to 75 percent less energy than incandescents. Improvements in CFL technology have reduced the harsh light often associated with them, and they are now available in soft white, bright white and daylight colors.

* Light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs have increased energy efficiency (up to 80 percent less than incandescents) and last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. LED bulbs offer a great range and quality of color and are incredibly reliable and sustainable.

Source: Sylvania
 

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