dimmable compact fluorescent light bulbs

dimmable compact fluorescent light bulbs

In an effort to cut energy costs and “go green,” many countries, including the United States, are either considering phasing out incandescent light bulbs or have already passed laws to ban them. As standard light bulbs go the way of the dinosaurs, consumers are left with just two viable options, LED light bulbs and compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs).

The push has been on for CFLs for the past several years, and in turn, they’ve received a lot of press, both positive and negative. But not much has been said about LED light bulbs. And so the question begs to be answered: What are LED light bulbs and are they a good alternative to CFLs?

While most people aren’t aware of it, LED (light emitting diode) technology has actually been around for quite a while. LEDs are basically tiny light bulbs about the size of a matchstick head that fit into an electrical circuit. That pinpoint light which indicates your dishwasher is running, for example, is a LED light. LED lights are used to form the numbers on digital clocks and are used as instrument panel lighting in vehicles, boats, and aircraft. Many traffic lights are now composed of clusters of LEDs.

Because LEDs are extremely energy efficient, can tolerate temperature variances and turbulence – all while lasting a long time – the quest began in an effort to create light bulbs by clustering numerous LED’s together. And it’s worked. LED light bulbs are now being produced that boast exceptional energy efficiency. A 7-watt LED light bulb, for example, can now replace a 75-watt incandescent bulb. As you can guess, the potential savings in energy costs and greenhouse gasses is enormous.

With claims that they can last up to 15 years and use 90% less energy than the traditional bulb, LED light bulbs seem to be a no-brainer at first glance. But problems are prominent and LED light bulbs currently come up short. Let’s take a look at why:

LED light bulbs are expensive. Understandably, most people balk at spending $35.00 to $125.00 for just one light bulb, even when it results in a notable reduction in energy bills. Considering most homes have 30-plus light bulbs and businesses have significantly more, switching to LEDs is simply not an affordable option.

LED light bulbs aren’t bright enough. While standard bulbs and CFLs illuminate light in all directions, the light from LED light bulbs is directed or focused, like a spotlight. While this works well for situations such as reading, work areas, and accent lighting, it results in unsatisfactory illumination for general lighting needs.

Not all LED light bulbs are created equal. Many of the less expensive LED light bulbs produced use poor quality LED’s that burn out prematurely due to manufacturing issues.

Their light output quickly degrades. Unlike incandescent bulbs, which release their heat, LEDs contain their heat, which causes their light quality to degrade. Even though heat syncs are added to redirect the heat to a circuit board, issues with temperature overload are still frequent. Tests have shown a loss of 50% of light output in 6 months.

Due to their brightness, stability and attractive pricing (not much more than incandescent bulbs) CFL’s are currently the better choice for most homes and businesses. However, if you decide to take LEDs for a test drive, here are some tips:

1. Start out by trying just one LED light bulb.
2. Do your homework. Take time research and read consumer feedback and reviews. Weigh the pros and the cons.
3. Pay careful attention to warranties and guarantees from both the manufacturer and the store you buy from.
4. Buy quality. Phillips Color Kinetics and Permlight are good brands that currently produce high quality LEDs.
5. Beware of the less expensive LED light bulbs as they are often problematic.

As LED technology improves and prices drop, LED light bulbs will be worth taking a second look at in the future. But for now, CFLs are clearly the better overall choice.

Earthmate EP2052AK 20-Watt Super Mini-Spiral CFL 2700K Bulb, 6 Pack $39.24 ...

Earthmate EP05129 5-Watt Dimmable Candle 2700K Bulb, 6 Pack $113.94 ...

Earthmate EP085250 8-Watt, Dimmable BR30 2700K Bulb, 6 Pack $146.94 ...

Dimmable - 20 Watt - 80 W Equal - Warm White 2700K - CFL Light Bulb - PAR38 Reflector - Marathon by Philips 146449 $32.41 Philips Lighting Co 20W 120V PAR-38 850 Lumen Warm Compact Fluorescent Bulb, Pack of 6 146449 Fluorescent Lamp...

GE 13-Watt Energy SmartTM - 8 Pack - 60 watt replacement $8.53 GE 13-Watt Energy SmartTM - 8 Pack - 60 watt replacement...

27W Replacement Bulb for Sunlight Lamp $5.99 Bring the sunlight back to your sunlight lamp with this 27w tube bulb! save$$$$ on your electric bills! the high-tech 27-wbulb, with a c.r.i.(color rendering index) of 80-85, gives as much light as an ordinary 150-w bulb, but uses far less energy. The bulb can l up to 5000 hours, 5x longer than other bulbs- for years of normal use. What is the kelvin temperature? the kelvin temperature is 6500k. H...

Sylvania 15172 65-Watt 130-Volt BR30 Indoor Flood Light, 6 Pack $10.25 ...

OttLite 20W VisionSaver Swirl Bulb. $8.95 Ott-Lite B206C0 Compact Fluorescent 20 Watt Light Bulb...

GE 26 Watt Energy Smart CFL - 6 Pack - 100 Watt Replacement $18.00 Electronic flicker-free starting. Replace standard 100 watt bulbs. Uses just 26 watts, same light as a regular 100 watts....

Dimmable E26 A60 Standard Household Base 50 Watt Incandescent Light Bulb Replacement with a 6 Watt Led, Warm White By Ledwholesalers, 1012ww $9.75 Dimmable E26 A60 Standard Household Base 50 Watt Incandescent Light Bulb Replacement with a 6 Watt Led, Warm White By Ledwholesalers, 1012ww...

32 Watt Energy Saving CFL Bulb $9.99 Replaces bulbs up to 150 watts, but uses only 32 watts of power and lasts up to thirteen times longer than standard 150 watt 750 hour rated bulbs! Please note: do not use with dimming devices. Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) type bulb. Bright white light. Light output of 2200 lumens, 32 watts, average life of 8000 hours. Price is for one bulb....

GE 75368 Energy Smart 13-Watt Spiral Compact Fluorescent Bulb, Candelabra Base, 2-Pack $10.89 GE, FLE13HT2/2CANDP, 2 Pack, 13W, Mini Twist Compact Fluorescent Bulb, Electronic Ballast, Equivalent To 60W Incandescent, 2700 Kelvin Temperature, 80 Cri, 8,000 Hours Rated Life, 850 Lumens, Candelabra Based, Energy Star Compliant, Carded....

Lutron DVCL-153P-WH Diva Dimmable CFL/LED Dimmer, White $23.99 Lutron DVCL-153P-WH DIVA CFL/LED BOXED...

Earthmate EP2052AK 20-Watt Super Mini-Spiral CFL 2700K Bulb, 6 Pack $39.24 ...

Earthmate EP05129 5-Watt Dimmable Candle 2700K Bulb, 6 Pack $113.94 ...

Earthmate EP085250 8-Watt, Dimmable BR30 2700K Bulb, 6 Pack $146.94 ...

Dimmable - 20 Watt - 80 W Equal - Warm White 2700K - CFL Light Bulb - PAR38 Reflector - Marathon by Philips 146449 $32.41 Philips Lighting Co 20W 120V PAR-38 850 Lumen Warm Compact Fluorescent Bulb, Pack of 6 146449 Fluorescent Lamp...

GE 13-Watt Energy SmartTM - 8 Pack - 60 watt replacement $8.53 GE 13-Watt Energy SmartTM - 8 Pack - 60 watt replacement...

27W Replacement Bulb for Sunlight Lamp $5.99 Bring the sunlight back to your sunlight lamp with this 27w tube bulb! save$$$$ on your electric bills! the high-tech 27-wbulb, with a c.r.i.(color rendering index) of 80-85, gives as much light as an ordinary 150-w bulb, but uses far less energy. The bulb can l up to 5000 hours, 5x longer than other bulbs- for years of normal use. What is the kelvin temperature? the kelvin temperature is 6500k. H...

GE 26 Watt Energy Smart CFL - 6 Pack - 100 Watt Replacement $18.00 Electronic flicker-free starting. Replace standard 100 watt bulbs. Uses just 26 watts, same light as a regular 100 watts....

Sylvania 15172 65-Watt 130-Volt BR30 Indoor Flood Light, 6 Pack $10.25 ...

Dimmable E26 A60 Standard Household Base 50 Watt Incandescent Light Bulb Replacement with a 6 Watt Led, Warm White By Ledwholesalers, 1012ww $9.75 Dimmable E26 A60 Standard Household Base 50 Watt Incandescent Light Bulb Replacement with a 6 Watt Led, Warm White By Ledwholesalers, 1012ww...

32 Watt Energy Saving CFL Bulb $9.99 Replaces bulbs up to 150 watts, but uses only 32 watts of power and lasts up to thirteen times longer than standard 150 watt 750 hour rated bulbs! Please note: do not use with dimming devices. Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) type bulb. Bright white light. Light output of 2200 lumens, 32 watts, average life of 8000 hours. Price is for one bulb....

360 Round Flushmount- Fluorescent by Tech-Tiella $120 The Tech-Tiella 360 Round Flushmount- Fluorescent is compact in more ways than one. Compact in size, it also features the flattering glow of two compact fluorescent bulbs. The round White glass shade fits seamlessly and securely into the similarly shaped metal base, allowing the 360 Round Flushmount- Fluorescent to be safely mounted to the ceiling or wall. Tech Lighting-Tiella, located in Skokie, IL, develops lighting under the belief that the latest and best new product innovations are the result of quality craftsmanship, attention to even the smallest design detail and drive to consistently bring you something new. The Tech-Tiella 360 Round Flushmount- Fluorescent is available with the following: Detailss:Round White glass shadeMetal baseCan be mounted on the ceiling or wallTitle 24 CompliantADA CompliantETL ListedOptions:Finish: Bronze, or Satin Nickel (shown).Lighting: Two 13 Watt 120 Volt Type T4 2GX7 Base Compact Fluorescent lamps (included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 3 to 5 business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 2.5 In., Diameter 11 In.

Bongo Pendant with Compact Fluorescent Canopy by WAC $203.22 The WAC Lighting Bongo Pendant with Compact Fluorescent Canopy is an alluring energy saving fixture suitable for porches and rooms that creates downlight ambience and enhance the grandeur of your room. The Bongo Pendant with Compact Fluorescent Canopy features cased glass that adds beauty to this fixture. WAC Lighting, founded in 1984, has developed a strong reputation for high quality decorative and task lighting. Based in Garden City, New York, WAC Lighting is a leading manufacturer of low voltage, line voltage and LED lighting, including track systems, transformers, lamps, cabinet lighting and recessed downlights. The WAC Bongo Pendant with Compact Fluorescent Canopy is available with the following: Included Features:One cased glass shade.Steel socket holder.96 in. field-cuttable steel cable.Options:Finish: Amber (shown), or White.Canopy/Cord: Black Canopy with Black Cord, or White Canopy with White Cord (shown).Lighting: One 26 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included), one 32 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included), or one 42 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within three- to five business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Width 5 In., Height 12 In.

Dax Compact Fluorescent Pendant by WAC Lighting $185.26 The WAC Lighting Dax Compact Fluorescent Pendant by WAC Lighting is energy efficient invigorating fixture that stimulates the aesthetic sense of your room with its cylindrical shaped diffuser. The Dax Compact Fluorescent Pendant by WAC Lighting features cased glass shade in acid etched color. WAC Lighting, founded in 1984, has developed a strong reputation for high quality decorative and task lighting. Based in Garden City, New York, WAC Lighting is a leading manufacturer of low voltage, line voltage and LED lighting, including track systems, transformers, lamps, cabinet lighting and recessed downlights. The WAC Lighting Dax Compact Fluorescent Pendant by WAC Lighting is available with the following: Included Features:One cylinder-shaped, cased glass shade.Acid etched color.96 in. field-cuttable steel cable.Options:Finish: Amber (shown), or White.Canopy/Cord: Black Canopy with Black Cord, or White Canopy with White Cord.Lighting: One 26 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included), one 32 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included), or one 42 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within three- to five business days. Dimensions: Fixture: Height 11.75 In., Width 5.125 In.

Top Four Dimmable LED Task Lamp by Luxit $715.5 Glamorous, colored and compact. The Luxit Top Four Dimmable LED Task Lamp packages the latest LED technology in a slim, supremely adjustable modern design. Available in a variety of glossy colors, the modular form brings to mind LEGOs, and is just as fun to use. Designed by Alberto Basaglia and Natalia Rota Nodari. Based in Presezzo, Italy, Luxit has been creating "Light that Works" since 1967. Their modern, highly engineered lighting solutions are technologically superior, energy efficient and attractive. Luxit is part of the FDV Collection. The Luxit Top Four Dimmable LED Task Lamp is available with the following: Details:4 lensesSpotlight structure in painted extruded aluminum, with thermoplastic coveringBuilt-in spring system in arm, adjustable up to 75 degreesFull-range touch dimmer on arm52" Black power cordLED Color Temperature: 2900 KLED average rated life: 50,000 hoursEnergy efficientCE RatedMade in ItalyDesigned by Alberto Basaglia and Natalia Rota NodariOptions:Color: Glossy Black, Glossy Blue, Glossy Green, Glossy Red, or Glossy White.Lighting: Four 1.2 Watt 120 Volt LED lamps (included). Shipping: This item usually ships in 2-3 days. Dimensions: Base: Height .59 In., Width 2.76 In., Depth 7.87 In. Head: Depth 2.63 In., Width 2.56 In. Fixture: Reach Adjustable to 25.03 In., Height Adjustable to 26.38 In. Arm: Length 22.55 In.

600 Series 6 Compact Fluorescent Housing by WAC Lighting $44.95 The WAC Lighting 600 Series 6" Compact Fluorescent Housing is available in a new construction or remodel configuration, both IC Rated and Non-IC Rated. The 600 Series 6" Compact Fluorescent Housing should be used in combination with one of the WAC Lighting 6" 600 series trims, which are available in a variety of models. WAC Lighting, founded in 1984, has developed a strong reputation for high quality decorative and task lighting. Based in Garden City, New York, WAC Lighting is a leading manufacturer of low voltage, line voltage and LED lighting, including track systems, transformers, lamps, cabinet lighting and recessed downlights. The WAC Lighting 600 Series 6" Compact Fluorescent Housing is available with the following: Details:Steel constructionUL Listed for damp locationsEnergy EfficientENERGY STAR QualifiedOptions:Housing Type: New Construction (shown), or Remodel.Type: IC, or Non-IC.Lighting:IC option utilizes one 13 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included).Non-IC option utilizes one 32 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included).Shipping: This item usually ships within five business days. Dimensions: Remodel Housing: Length 6.13 In., Height 7.75 In. New Construction Housing: Height 7 In., Length 6.13 In.

500 Series 5 Compact Fluorescent Housing by WAC Lighting $44.95 The WAC Lighting 500 Series 5" Compact Fluorescent Housing is available in a new construction or remodel configuration, IC Rated and Non-IC Rated. The 500 Series 5" Compact Fluorescent Housing should be used in combination with one of the WAC Lighting 5" 500 series trims, which are available in a variety of models. WAC Lighting, founded in 1984, has developed a strong reputation for high quality decorative and task lighting. Based in Garden City, New York, WAC Lighting is a leading manufacturer of low voltage, line voltage and LED lighting, including track systems, transformers, lamps, cabinet lighting and recessed downlights. The WAC Lighting 500 Series 5" Compact Fluorescent Housing is available with the following: Details:Steel constructionUL Listed for damp locationsEnergy EfficientENERGY STAR QualifiedOptions:Housing Type: New Construction, or Remodel (shown).Type: IC, or Non-IC.Lighting:IC option utilizes one 13 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included).Non-IC option utilizes one 26 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included).Shipping: This item usually ships within five business days. Dimensions: Remodel Housing: Length 5.38 In., Height 7.75 In. New Construction Housing: Height 7 In., Length 5.44 In.

Abele Fluorescent Ceiling Light by Meltemi $348.93 The Abele Fluorescent Ceiling Light, by Meltemi, whispers simple and tailored but shouts pure quality. The glass and metal structure can be used in a variety of environments as it illuminates with brightness and low glare. Meltemi, a Nemo Italianaluce/Illuminating Experiences Company, produces a collection of lamps in Opal-white blown glass. Opal-white glass is a unique material that delivers a soft, diffused light of unparalleled quality. The Abele Fluorescent, by Meltemi, is a ceiling fixture that can be mounted to a standard four-inch junction box. The glass shade twists and locks onto a Chrome-metal structure. Lighting: The Abele utilizes one, 18 Watt, compact fluorescent Gx24-q2 lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within 3 to 5 business days. Dimensions: Diameter 13.75 in., Height 4 in.

400 Series 4 Compact Fluorescent Housing by WAC Lighting $44.95 The WAC Lighting 400 Series 4" Compact Fluorescent Housing is available in a new construction or remodel configuration, both IC Rated and Non-IC Rated. The 400 Series 4" Compact Fluorescent Housing should be used in combination with one of the WAC Lighting 4" 400 series trims, which are available in a variety of models. WAC Lighting, founded in 1984, has developed a strong reputation for high quality decorative and task lighting. Based in Garden City, New York, WAC Lighting is a leading manufacturer of low voltage, line voltage and LED lighting, including track systems, transformers, lamps, cabinet lighting and recessed downlights. The WAC Lighting 400 Series 4" Compact Fluorescent Housing is available with the following: Details:Steel constructionPainted White finishUL Listed for damp locationsEnergy EfficientENERGY STAR QualifiedOptions:Housing Type: New Construction (shown), or Remodel.Type: IC, or Non-IC.Lighting: One 13 Watt 120 Volt Compact Fluorescent lamp (not included). Shipping: This item usually ships within five business days. Dimensions: Remodel Housing: Length 4.13 In., Height 5.69 In. New Construction Housing: Height 5.5 In., Length 4.19 In.

Lexington Pendant by Tech Lighting $388 The Tech Lighting Lexington Pendant was designed by Jim Henderson to coordinate with any variety of transitional color schemes while also providing warm, functional downlight. The large drum-shaped fabric shade comes in no fewer than ten colors, with a glass diffuser that allows for a glare-free wash of light. Also available in a variety of finishes and lamping options. Tech Lighting, headquartered in Skokie, IL, is known for their innovative lighting systems and exquisite lighting designs. Their passion for art, sophistication and imagination is balanced by rigorous testing and quality control in the creation of their line-voltage and low-voltage lighting, including the Tech Lighting FreeJack and monorail systems and track heads. The Tech Lighting Lexington Pendant is available with the following: Details:Drum-shaped fabric shadeGlass diffuserMetal frameRound ceiling canopy72" field-cuttable suspension cableIncandescent option dimmable with standard incandescent dimmer (not included)Compact Fluorescent Dimmable option dimmable with a dimmer (not included) that's compatible with an Advance Mark 10 Powerline 2-wire line voltage dimming ballastETL Listed for damp locationsDesigned by Jim HendersonOptions:Finish: Antique Bronze, Black, Satin Nickel, or White.Lamping: Compact Fluorescent, Compact Fluorescent Dimmable, or Incandescent.Shade: Black Shade, Camel Felt, Charcoal Gray Felt, Chocolate Brown, Chocolate Brown Felt, Desert Clay, Red, Washable Brown, Washable Gray, Washable Ivory, or White Shade.Lighting:Compact Fluorescent and Compact Fluorescent Dimmable options utilize four 32 Watt 120 Volt Type GX24Q-3 Compact Fluorescent lamps (not included), or four 26 Watt 120 Volt Type GX24Q-3 Compact Fluorescent lamps (not included).Incandescent option utilizes four 100 Watt 120 Volt Type A19 Medium Base Incandescent lamps (included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 3 to 5 business days. Dimensions: Ceiling Canopy: Diameter 4.5 In., Height .5 In. Shade: Diameter 20 In., Height 12 In. Fixture: Overall Hanging Length Adjustable to 84.5 In. Cable: Length 72 In.

Delancey Pendant by 2Thousand Degrees $464 The 2Thousand Degrees Delancey Pendant was designed by Jim Henderson as a perfect way to illuminate and enhance the beauty of transitional settings around it. The shade is a large cylinder--23" tall and 16" around--available in four tailored fabrics, with a glass diffuser that spreads a glare-free wash of light. Available with incandescent or energy efficient fluorescent lamping options. Tech Lighting, headquartered in Skokie, IL, is known for their innovative lighting systems and exquisite lighting designs. Their passion for art, sophistication and imagination is balanced by rigorous testing and quality control in the creation of their line-voltage and low-voltage lighting, including the Tech Lighting FreeJack and monorail systems and track heads. The 2Thousand Degrees Delancey Pendant is available with the following: Details:Cylindrical fabric shadeGlass diffuserMetal baseRound ceiling canopy72" field-cuttable suspension cableIncandescent option dimmable with standard incandescent dimmer (not included)Compact Fluorescent Dimmable option dimmable with a dimmer (not included) that's compatible with an Advance Mark 10 Powerline 2-wire line voltage dimming ballastETL Listed for damp locationsDesigned by Jim HendersonOptions:Finish: Black, Bronze Brown, Satin Nickel, or White Finish.Lamping: Compact Fluorescent, Compact Fluorescent Dimmable, or Incandescent.Shade: Chocolate Brown, Desert Clay, Red, or White.Lighting:Compact Fluorescent and Compact Fluorescent Dimmable options utilize four 32 Watt 120 Volt Type GX24Q-3 Fluorescent lamps (not included), or four 26 Watt 120 Volt Type GX24Q-3 Fluorescent lamps (not included).Incandescent option utilizes four 100 Watt 120 Volt Type A19 Medium Base Incandescent lamps (included).Shipping: This item usually ships within 3 to 5 business days. Dimensions: Ceiling Canopy: Overall Diameter 4.5 In., Height .5 In. Shade: Diameter 16 In., Height 23 In. Fixture: Overall Hanging Length Adjustable to 95.5 In. Cable: Length 72 In.

Switching them on and off a lot does wear them out, that’s why they are mostly recommended for rooms where the light stays on for a longer period of time. CFLs only need about 25% of the energy a normal lightbulb uses so if you leave them on for 6 hours a day it would probably still be better than switching back to normal ones. But if you’re not in the room for half an hour or longer I would still recommend switching them off.