Whether in your home, industrial or office settings, you must ensure proper lighting. When choosing the right light globe, knowing the differences between them can positively influence your buying decision. Light bulbs come in many types, shapes, and sizes, from Light-Emitting Diodes (LED) to Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) and halogen lights. Understanding their differences can save you time and energy in the long run. Are you struggling to buy the best light bulb? Let us help you identify the best light globe by showcasing their differences.
We have compiled the differences between LED, CFL, and halogen lights by breaking them into simplified categories.
We can differentiate a light globe by the technology it uses to produce light. Different mechanisms are implemented by the LED, CFL, and halogen lights to yield light. LED light globes generate light by using a light-emitting diode. When voltage is applied to a negatively charged semiconductor, electrons combine, producing light.
On the other hand, CFL light globes have a fluorescent coating inside their tubing. When electric current runs through the tubes, the argon and mercury vapour inside produce invisible ultraviolet (UV) light. The ultraviolet light then reacts with the fluorescent coating, creating light. That means that CFL light globes emit dimmer lights that brighten with time because of the UV energy transfer delay.
A halogen lamp uses a tungsten filament with quartz capsules filled with halogen gas. The flow of electricity initiates the hydrogen cycle. The electric current heats the tungsten filament until it evaporates, producing particles. The tungsten vapour combines with halogen gas under high temperatures, making the mixture redeposit back onto the filament. That allows the reuse of the particles, making the bulbs last longer and produce more light. Much heat is created because the quartz envelope is close to the filament, making halogen light bulbs hotter than regular ones.
While LED light bulbs are the most energy-efficient, CFL and halogen light bulbs are effective alternatives.
LED bulbs can use 75% less energy. LED lights consume less energy but emit less heat, thanks to lacking a filament. Therefore, you will save more on electricity bills when using LED bulbs.
Compact fluorescent lights (CFL) require more energy when you first use them. They conserve energy after using them for some time. They will use 70% less energy than traditional lights. Halogen bulbs consume more power and heat up faster than LED and CFL bulbs.
Proper lighting not only affects your mood, emotions, and health but also has an impact on aesthetics and functionality. LED lights are available in different colours, brightness ranges, and colour temperatures depending on the ambience you would like to achieve. You can adjust your lights to warm colours to achieve a warmer tone and so forth. You might want to consult a qualified electrician to implement an effective lighting design for your home.
The most common LED colours are red, blue, green, and amber. That makes LED lights applicable in different settings. Coloured LED lights can be used as signal lights or indicator lights.
Smart LED lights have been designed to change their colour to suit your needs. CFL ballasts help these bulbs become more efficient by regulating the current. Magnetic ballasts, used in older designs, made CFL bulbs produce a buzzing sound. The design has changed in that electronic ballasts are used to eliminate noise.
It can somewhat be challenging to decide what light globes and designs to choose. Astley electrical can help you use the proper lighting that will suit your setting. If you have a work or project that requires a lighting consultation, or you’d want some expert advice for making your home more energy-efficient, get in touch with our team today.