Most are aware of the phase-out of incandescent light bulbs, and some have gone so far as to buy in bulk and hoard these bulbs. We’d like to share some information about your options for future lighting solutions in your home or business.

With few exceptions, starting this year the U.S. ban on 40-watt and 60-watt incandescent bulbs means that they can no longer be manufactured or imported (100-watt and 75-watt bulbs already have been phased out). Retailers are able to sell the remainder of their inventory – and no one will come into your home or business and take away your light bulbs.

Even if you’re one of those who have a stockpile, you’re eventually going to run out. So here are your alternatives:

1 Halogen bulbs are most like incandescent bulbs in terms of energy. A bulb lasts 2,000 hours on average and consumes about 43 watts for the equivalent of a 60-watt incandescent. Halogen bulbs are the least expensive alternative to incandescent, costing an average of $1.25 each.

2 Compact florescent light (CFL) bulbs cost about $2 and can last 10,000 hours. They consume about 22 percent of the energy as a 60-watt incandescent bulb. They do have drawbacks: They often appear more blue than white when compared to the warmer glow of incandescent bulbs; most contain a trace of mercury, making them more difficult to dispose of safely; and they usually aren’t dimmable.

3 LED lights cost $12 to $50, but they are the most energy efficient in the long run. They use slightly less energy than CFL bulbs, and manufacturers claim they can last 20,000 to 50,000 hours. LED lights also can have adjustable colors and contain no toxic chemicals.

Click here for light bulb ratings from Consumer Reports.

Gary Houston Electric Co. can make your transition to a more efficient type of lighting a painless one. We have more than 35 years of experience in residential and industrial lighting.

We’re currently offering a 10-percent discount on our services. Call us at 501-375-8330, or click here for more information (including a free estimate).