General information
Energy efficient bulbs are replacing the usual incandescent bulbs, as this action provides a significant saving in electricity consumption.
Several technologies are available, it is important to check if their characteristics are suitable for the use they are planned for.
LED based bulbs: LEDS (Light Emitting Diodes) are the most efficient light emitters in the consumer market, have a long period of live and do not include any hazardous material. At the time the catalogue is printed, LED technology is evolving but no appropriate product is openly available on the market.
Fluorescent tubes and fluorescent compact bulbs: Fluorescent tube and equivalent in bulb shape called fluorescent compact are efficient light emitters. The initial light efficiency is not initially optimum, it takes a few minutes to these tubes to emit at maximum light. T5 tubes with electronic ballasts are more efficient than T8 tubes. These tubes should be used when the light is often switched on or off. Should be avoided if appropriate recycling is not available as these lamps includes a small amount of mercury.
Halogen bulbs: This incandescent bulb is about 30% more efficient than the standard incandescent bulb, and can be used when the light is often switched on and off.
Specifications:
Screw thread for bulbs: E27 for standard bulbs, E14 for lower power ones
Tubes shape: T8 (26 mm diameter) or T5 (16 mm diameter)
Type: LED, or halogen, or fluorescent, or incandescent
Consumed power: Electrical power consumed by the bulb to emit light. For comparison purpose, the power of the incandescent bulb with similar light emission is sometime provided.
Energy saving code: G (less efficiency) to A (best efficency)