More of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 are kicking in this year meaning higher standards for the good old incandescent bulb, basically unchanged since Edison first invented it. These bulbs radiate 90% of their energy as waste heat. Replacing 15 of these bulbs can save $50 a year in energy bills. This may not sound like alot but if you multiple this by every household the energy savings add up which is a good thing for the future. Over the next two years, manufacturers must meet more stringent guidelines that are forcing alternatives to the incandescent bulb (unless it can me made more efficient) starting with 100+ watt bulbs.
Light bulb alternatives include the well known Compact Flourescent Light (CFL) bulb, halogens, and less common Light Emitting Diode (LED) lights. LEDs are the newest, last 25 times that of the standard bulb, save the most energy but are very expensive since they are so new. CFL bulbs last 10 times as long, save almost as much as LEDs but have environmentally consequences if not recycled or broken due to their mercury content. Halogens last 3 times as long but are only slightly more efficient (25%). They will most likely be next on the hit list.
As homeowners it is our duty to be fiscally responsible and save energy and the environment for future generations.
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