The Different Types of Light Bulbs for Your Home

Posted on 19 March 2018

All homeowners are faced with a simple and inevitable fact:

The light bulbs will need to be replaced eventually.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, or this is your first time installing new light bulbs in your home, it’s important to understand what options are available to you. From halogens to LEDs, there are many light bulbs at your disposal. If you’re thinking about putting new light bulbs in your kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms, or even in your table-side lamps, you should gain a decent understanding of each bulb type before making a final choice.

Of course, each type of light bulb has its own set of pros and cons. The advantages and disadvantages are clear, and it’s up to you to decide what type of bulb will work best for you. Some light bulbs work better in certain areas of the home, while others are ideal for different spaces. Take a look at the four main types of light bulbs so that you have the knowledge and resources necessary to make the choice that works best for you.

Once you've made your choice, contact our team here at Repairs.sg for light installation singapore services that are affordable, fast and professional.

Incandescent Light Bulbs

Often known as the common light bulb, the incandescent light bulb is the most affordable bulb on the market. It’s also earned its nickname well, as it is the most common light bulb used in many areas of the home. It gives off a warm glow, inviting guests and residents alike to seek comfort under its rays. These lights are pleasant and long-lasting, and they are compatible with dimmers and other advanced forms of light switches.

Pros:

  • They are cheap and accessible

  • They can compliment any area of the home

  • They last between 700 and 1,000 hours

  • They can be used with a dimmer


Cons:

  • They do not last as long as other light bulb types

  • They are not super energy efficient

Halogen Light Bulbs

Similar to incandescent bulbs, halogen light bulbs are used to imitate natural daylight. They emit a white, allowing colors to appear sharper to the naked eye. They are still affordable bulbs, although they are not as cheap as regular incandescent bulbs. These types of light bulbs are typically used to light cabinets, both inside and underneath. They should not be changed with bare hands, as they have the tendency to run hot while in use.

Pros:

  • They make colors appear brighter and sharper, which is great when working with food items or craft materials

  • They last longer than incandescent lights and create a natural white light

  • They are energy efficient 

  • They are ideal for use in cabinets


Cons:

  • They burn at a high temperature, and are usually too hot to the touch
  • They are not as affordable as incandescent lights

  • They are not ideal for use in all areas of the home

Fluorescent Light Bulbs

There are two main types of fluorescent light bulbs: Typical fluorescent and compact fluorescent bulbs. Typical fluorescent light bulbs are cold, white lights, giving off a harsh tone that can be equated to the light of a sunny afternoon day. They can’t be used with a dimmer, but are great for use in larger rooms, garages, basements, and areas of the home that need bright lighting. Compact fluorescent bulbs, also known as CFLs, are slightly more energy-efficient than regular fluorescent bulbs, and contain mercury. They can be used anywhere in the home.

Pros:

  • Fluorescent lights are affordable and accessible

  • They provide extremely bright light for use in darker rooms

  • They are ideal for ceiling lighting

  • CFLs can be used anywhere in the home


Cons:

  • The light emitted from fluorescent light is often harsh and too bright for some situations

  • Some fluorescents contain mercury, which is a toxic chemical
  • They must be recycled when you are getting rid of them


LED Light Bulbs

LED light bulbs are by far the most popular and the most technologically advanced light bulb option on the market. They are extremely energy efficient, and they last longer than any of the other types of bulbs. They are most often used in under-counter or above-desk lighting, as they provide a directional light rather than a diffused light type. This makes it easier to see what’s in front of you, without having to suffer the psychological effects of the cold and harsh light of fluorescents. There are different types of LED bulbs for counter lighting and for room lighting, making them ideal for any part of the home.

Pros:

  • LED light bulbs are energy efficient

  • LED light bulbs are very long lasting, with thousands of hours of illumination

  • They are the best for directional light and focused lighting

  • They can warmly light up any part of the house

  • They are technologically advanced bulbs that are found in any hardware store or local supply store

Cons: