LAS VEGAS - It's lights out this year for traditional 75-watt light bulbs. Retailers are phasing out the incandescent bulbs and replacing them with more energy-efficient bulbs.
Congress devised the plan to eliminate incandescent bulbs when it passed the Energy Independence and Security Act in 2007. Last year, 100-watt incandescent bulbs disappeared from shelves. This year, retailers will pull the plug on 75-watt bulbs.
While the 130-year-old incandescent bulbs produce great light, most of the energy is wasted - giving off heat which burns out the bulbs and requires them to be replaced frequently. That changes with the newer, more energy efficient lighting technology halogen bulbs offer.
"Halogen bulbs are what we consider our good light bulbs," said Home Depot Store Supervisor Ron Zione.
Halogen bulbs burn about 30% more efficiently than incandescent bulbs. They are more versatile and last twice as long, but they aren't shoppers' only options.
"Compact florescent bulbs are what we consider to be better. They're better than halogens, not as good as LED, but they are still a good light bulb," Zione said.
The squiggly compact florescent bulbs are the cost-effective middle-of-the-road options that are about 75 percent more efficient and can last up to ten times longer.
"The spiral design helps with distribution of light," Zione said.
In other words, it takes fewer watts to produce the same amount of light. Energy Star claims one compact florescent bulb will save you approximately $40 in energy expenses during its lifetime.
The most energy-efficient bulbs on the market, however, are LED light bulbs.
"These will last greater than 20 years for one light bulb. So, you might spend more money on these bulbs, but at the same time, these are going to last you much, much longer," Zione said.
Eventually, all household lighting will go the way of LED. Eighty percent of LED energy is converted directly into making light without the heat waste. That means lower power bills for consumers.
While LED bulbs are more expensive, they are cost-effective in the long run and give you versatile eco-options like dimming. Chances are you'll move out of your house before needing to replace these bulbs.
In addition to phasing out 75-watt incandescent light bulbs this year, stores will be eliminating traditional 40-watt and 60-watt light bulbs in 2014.
