Energy saving measures can help to reduce the size of household energy bills, as well as helping to lower the nation’s carbon footprint. Replacing standard light bulbs with those that are energy efficient is one simple step that families can take that could save them as much as £55 per year, or an average of £3 per light bulb.
Figures from the Energy Saving Trust show that the majority of the 650 million light bulbs in the UK use inefficient filament bulbs. As the UK government and energy providers are already working together to phase out these bulbs, and introduce lower output bulbs from September 2012, now is the perfect time for families and individuals to make the switch. Below are some of the key advantages of using energy efficient light bulbs:
Recent research has shown that energy efficient LED (light emitting diodes) light-bulbs have a significantly extended life compared to ordinary lightbulbs. LEDs can last up to 100,000 hours in comparison to 15,000 hours for compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and 1,000 hours for traditional incandescent light bulbs.
More energy efficient
LED lightbulbs are more energy efficient than standard incandescent light bulbs, using up to up to 90% less energy. This is because LEDs can emit more light using the same amount of electricity. They also minimise heat loss as traditional light bulbs release both heat and light as they pass electricity through a filament.
LEDs were also described as “the most efficient light source currently available” by James Russill, the UK Energy Saving Trust's technical development manager. He also argued that LED lights are “smaller and brighter” than traditional models – making them a better product. Choosing energy from British Gas, who offer numerous tariffs designed to suit all budgets, can help UK consumers improve their energy efficiency.
Replacing a 50W halogen downlighter with a 6W LED will save families and individuals £4 per year. As lighting makes up 8% of average energy bills, this saving could help to boost household budgets in the long-term.
Supermarket ranges offer energy efficient lightbulbs that start from as little as £1.99 and considering the extended life of these bulbs they will more than make up for their initial price.
An energy efficient LED lightbulb that lasts for more than 20 years is expected to go on sale later this year with an estimated cost of £31 (of £1.55 a year).