Light globes in a nutshell
According to Choice Online
- Up to 90% of the energy an incandescent (standard) light
bulb uses is wasted, mainly on heat
- Lighting represents around 12% of Australia's domestic
greenhouse gas emissions
- Globally, electric lighting generates emissions equal to
70% of those from all passenger vehicles
Compact fluorescent light bulbs
- Compact fluorescent light bulbs are also known as CFLs,
long-life bulbs, and energy-efficient bulbs
- Compact fluorescent light bulbs last a lot longer and
consume much less energy than incandescent light bulbs
- To replace an existing incandescent bulb with a CFL of
equivalent brightness divide the wattage by 5, or by 4 for a
slightly brighter light. For example, replace a 60w
incandescent bulb with a 12w or 15w CFL.
- CFL bulbs are suitable for use outdoors if labelled
accordingly, or installed in an enclosed, weatherproof light
fitting
- CFLs are unsuitable for use in downlights because there
is insufficient space for air circulation.
- CFLs contain a small amount of mercury and if dumped in
landfills can pollute the air, soil and waterways and
collect in organisms and food chains. Recycling is the much
preferred option.
Halogen lights
- Halogen lights are slightly more efficient types of
incandescent bulbs
- Mains voltage (240V), and low voltage bulbs (12V -
typically used in down lighting), are the common types of
halogen bulb
- Mains voltage halogen bulbs are similar in appearance to
traditional incandescent light bulbs and are suitable
alternatives for light fixtures that require functions such
as dimming, sensor lights, touch lights and other lighting
applications, however, they are not as efficient as compact
fluorescent lamps (CFLs)