If Congress, make that the GOP-led House, hadn't acted, two weeks from today would be the last time that we could buy 100-watt incandescent lightbulbs in the US. That's why many of us have a whole closet full of them. We'll be using them for years - so much for the ban.
Now, they can be sold through September of next year, but as I already posted, no jobs will result from this. Who wants to gear up production for just a few months?
Let's look at both lightbulb choices.
We'll start with the CFL.
- They are not attractive - although some people may find the style appealing.
- They are larger than "regular" bulbs so they may extend above the shade, below the globe, or not even fit an existing fixture.
- The "clip-on" lampshade that attaches to the rounded bulb won't work.
- It is not instant on - it has to warm up.
- It is best used by leaving it on, but this dramatically cuts into its usable life (they burn out quickly).
- It contains mercury, and no one is really sure what you're supposed to do with them when they burn out.
- They should not be dropped - they are considered hazardous if broken.
- They cause headaches, eye problems for people affected by strobing, and produce less intense lighting.
- They are more expensive.
- They don't work in the small toy or craft ovens where the heat is required.
- They can't be dimmed.
- They don't come in 3-way styles.
- They are not manufactured in the US.
Now, for the champ - the incandescent bulb.
- Their shape is iconic, but they also come in teardrop, nightlight/Christmas tree shaped, candle, round, and other varieties.
- They are instant on - important for use with motion sensors.
- No need to leave them burrning. Turn them off and on as often as needed - until they burn out.
- They contain no gases and are not under any pressure.
- Who hasn't dropped a light bulb? It shatters, and we sweep it up. No problem.
- Lightbulbs are occasionally used theatrically to make explosive sounds or to indicate somone dropping glass.
- Sure they are hot, but hard to beat for their lumens (light output).
- No headaches - unless you stare at the bulb and begin seeing spots or use too low of wattage and develop temporary eye strain.
- They come in so many sizes - from a few watts to several hundred.
- They come in 3-way bulbs (interestingly, this is exempt for the ban).
- They can be used with a variety of dimmers (rheostats).
- They are manufactured in the US (on an increasingly limited basis).
Now, imagine your Christmas tree or outdoor holiday lighting with CFL bulbs. LEDS are fine, but CFLs?
Imagine your beautiful foyer or dining room chandilier with CFL bulbs protruding from the sockets.
I'll stay with the incandescents until they perfect the LEDs and offer them at a comparable price.
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For more information on my coaching and educational programs and services, visit my website or go to my other blog "Steve Hoffacker's Home Sales Insights" for additional sales tips, insights, and commentary. Listen to my free podcast messages at "Steve Hoffacker's Happenings."
Steve Hoffacker - Sales Trainer, Author of Sales Books, Commercial Real Estate Broker, Marketing Consultant, Sales Coach, Blogger, Photographer, Motivator, Podcaster, and Teacher. - for Realtors, Real Estate Sales Professionals, Home Builders, New Home Salespeople, Entrepreneurs, Small Business Owners, and Independent Sales Representatives.
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