Almost everywhere you go, you will see some mention of CFL (compact fluorescent lighting) and how it is the new energy saving way to go when it comes to lighting any space. No doubt CFLs are more energy efficient, last longer than incandescent bulbs, but also cost a bit more. In the last couple of years that price has come down significantly. According to Wikipedia “a CFL can save over 30 US dollars in electricity costs over the lamp’s life time compared to an incandescent lamp and save 2,000 times its own weight in greenhouse gases.”
See this great table below from the Energy Savers web site
Now, LED (light emitting diodes) are demonstrating that we can have good lighting, with even more energy efficiency without the harmful mercury hazard associated with CFLs. The mercury exposure is a huge concern and according to Suite101.com CFLs contain “approximately 4mg – 5 mg of mercury per bulb. Mercury can cause many problems when inhaled, and can affect our brains, spinal cords, kidneys and livers.”
If you would like to see a further comparison of cost, useful life, and energy efficiency when comparing LED, CFL, and incandescent lighting check out ProductDose.com for great information and download their spreadsheet review.
I love the LED light systems for holiday lights because they give off such a clean, bright color and do not create as much heat as traditional lights. This seems like a safer way to go. There are also some great home LED products on Improvements web site.
If you want to learn more about LED, check out LED Magazine articles. Then go shopping!
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