Incandescent Lighting

Incandescent lamps are the oldest, most common and most inexpensive lamps. Incandescent light is produced by a white hot coil of tungsten wire that glows when heated by electrical current. The type of glass enclosure surrounding this tungsten filament determines its light beam's characteristics.

Incandescent lamps have the shortest service life of the common lighting types. All incandescents are relatively inefficient compared to other lighting types. However, significant savings are possible - if you select the right incandescent lamp for its purpose.

Experts (including the modest HZG) say these lamps are the most common and the most inefficient light source available. Larger wattage bulbs are more efficient than smaller ones.

While fluorescent lighting is less expensive (energy wise, addressed next writing), HZG has found that the exterior flood lights do not last as long as advertised, making their price point too expensive. Maybe it's the climate; maybe it's a fluke. However, 3 bulbs have been tested fluorescent versus 3 bulbs incandescent, and the incandescents win.

Next Topic: Fluorescent Lighting