<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=719584624911579&amp;ev=PageView&amp;noscript=1">

Replacing Light Bulbs to Improve Energy Efficiency and Save Money: A Step-by-Step Guide.

You’re probably already aware that halogen light bulbs aren’t the most energy efficient options when it comes to lighting. So, how can you safely replace your halogen light bulbs, and what’s the best alternative? Here, we outline how to do it, and discuss the best light bulb alternatives to halogens.

 

Understanding halogen light bulbs

Halogen light bulbs work by heating a thin wire filament of tungsten metal with electricity. This type of lightbulb emits a bright white light, like standard incandescent light bulbs. However, halogen light bulbs differ slightly to incandescents, in that they’re filled with a special gas that allows the vaporized tungsten to be deposited back onto the filament. This means they last longer and are more efficient, but also run hotter than incandescents.

While some people like the idea of heating with their lighting, halogens are an inefficient way to heat up your spaces, and you’re definitely better off separating your  lighting and heating. You can get low-voltage halogens or high-voltage options, such as a 240V series, but low voltage doesn’t necessarily mean that the light bulb will save you energy. Halogens are a step up from other convention incandescents in efficiency and lifespan, but better alternatives are available today.

 

Safely removing halogen light bulbs

Because of the way they’re constructed, halogen light bulbs can become extremely hot during operation, so take care when removing your lightbulbs. Follow these steps to minimise risk of injury.

  • Unplug and cool – Always unplug the light fixture from the electrical socket and wait until it’s completely cool before removal. You might need to wait at least 10 minutes. Check with a quick feel of the bulb to make sure it’s sufficiently cool for removal.
  • Housing and parts – If the light-bulb housing of your light fixture includes heat guards and protective covering, remember where these fit, and carefully set them aside so you can reattach later.
  • Handling light bulbs – Use a firm but gentle grasp to unscrew the lightbulb so you don’t crack the thin glass. Wear a glove or use a piece of cloth for extra protection. Turn the bulb counterclockwise to remove, alternatively you might have a “bayonet” fitting, in which case you will need to push-in and turn. If you’re unable to turn the lightbulb, don’t apply excessive force, Instead, contact Platinum Electricians and we will remove it safely for you.
  • Hard-to-reach spaces – If you’re removing a bulb from a hard-to-reach spot, ensure you have the right safety equipment to get you to the light, alternatively we can help you out as our electricians have specialty access equipment.
  • Disposal – Always wrap old halogen light bulbs in layers of paper to prevent injury in case of glass breakage. Check with your council whether you can place the lightbulbs in your garbage.

Alternatives and replacements for halogen light bulbs

LEDs or CFLs are the best alternatives to halogen light bulbs, with lower wattage halogens and IRC halogens being the next-best options.

  • LEDs or CFLs – LEDs and compact fluorescent lightbulbs are efficient, long-life alternatives to halogens. Because they’re more efficient, a lower wattage will get you more lumens. Lumens measures brightness. For example, a 4-5 watt LED will yield 230 lumens, while a 20 watt halogen is required for the same brightness. Note LEDs are more energy efficient than CFLs.
  • Lower wattage halogens – If LEDs or CFLs are not an option, you can opt for a lower wattage halogen. You’ll save on electricity and the space won’t be as hot, but brightness will also be compromised.
  • IRC or energy saver halogen lamps – IRC or energy saver halogen lamps are another alternatives. These offer the same brightness while using less power, and they can help you save up to 25% in energy costs.

Replacing a Light Bulb

Things to check when choosing replacement light bulbs

With numerous manufacturers and product options, you’ll probably be able to find an LED, CFL, or another alternative that’s compatible with your lighting fixture. However, always check the following before you buy, to save yourself a trip back to the store.

  • Light level – Make sure the light level of your replacement bulb is what you’re looking for. Check lumens instead of watts or volts to determine brightness.
  • Time to full brightness – If you need the lightbulb to reach full brightness quickly, check the package to make sure your replacement bulb can light up within the required time.
  • Dimmers – If you have a dimmer feature on your light fixture, check that the replacement bulb can accommodate this.
  • Base type – The base type is probably the most obvious thing to check. Whether it’s a particular diameter or style (such as Edison screw or bayonet cap), check your replacement has the right base type.
  • Colour – You can get bulbs in white light or tinted shades in warmer yellows, so check the packaging to make sure it’s the right shade for the space.

If you use halogen lights in your home or business, you should probably look at replacing them with more efficient solutions like LEDs or CFLs. Take extra care when removing and handling halogens, and get professional advice if necessary.

If you have a lighting-related electrical issue, contact our friendly service team for more information on how we can help or find out more about how to reduce your cost of powering your lighting.

Ecosmart Electricians can also help you improve your energy efficiency around your home, contact us today or request a professional energy Audit.

You can also do it yourself with our free tool:

Check out our ultimate guide to a DIY home energy audit.

DIY-Home-Energy-Audit

 

Back to Blog

Related Articles

What is involved in getting Solar Power?

If you're curious about getting solar, but not sure what is involved, here's a step-by-step run...

How to Save on Your Home Heating Bills in Winter

There’s no need to spend thousands of dollars in winter to keep your home warm. While heaters are...

How To Use Smart Technology To Keep Your Energy Costs Down

With a great deal of technology available to us, keeping track of the costs of various energy...
×

Subscribe to EcoSmart News & Tips

Subscribe to EcoSmart News & Tips