Choose Light bulbs

Choose a bulb is far from being neglected if one wants to ensure visual comfort while minimizing energy expenditure, even if the scheduled elimination of incandescent models modifies the shelf offer.

Difficult to see clearly between traditional bulbs, halogen consumers of efficient energy and compact fluorescent but often considered little decorative, not to mention the almost endless shapes and colors. If we add to that the power, voltage, the base form or the luminous efficiency, we are not far from having to study engineering to navigate. Some detailed explanations are needed.

Traditional incandescent bulbs contain a tungsten filament that heats from an electric current runs through it. They have the advantage of providing a good quality light and very affordable to buy. But they have a main default producing too much heat, so spending a lot of electricity and increasing the risk of burns. Moreover, their life is short (1000 hours) with low luminous efficiency (about 12 lumens/watt). Better BOOK them in locations not easily accessible where they will be turned on for short periods (cellar, stairs, cupboard...).

Halogens are also formed of a long filament of tungsten, but this is surrounded by an inert gas mixed with compound halogen (chromium and fluorine, for example), the whole covered with a protection made ​​of quartz base. Most often in the form of "pencil", they provide a white light similar to natural light for an affordable purchase price.

However, their lack of brightness (about 18 lumens/watt), their high heat and important electricity consumption are disadvantages. A precaution: the bulb should never be touched with your fingers, otherwise weaken the quartz. There are also low voltage halogen lamps (12V or 24V), ideal for reading.