There are five main light bulb types in use today: LED, CFL, halogen, incandescent, and smart bulbs. LEDs dominate with 90%+ of new sales due to their energy efficiency (80-100 lm/W) and lifespan (15,000-50,000 hours). CFLs are being phased out in most markets.
How many types of light bulbs are there?
There are five main light bulb types in use today: LED, CFL, halogen, incandescent, and smart bulbs. LEDs dominate with 90%+ of new sales due to their energy efficiency (80-100 lm/W) and lifespan (15,000-50,000 hours). CFLs are being phased out in most markets.
What do E26, GU10, and MR16 mean?
E26 is the standard medium screw base (26mm) fitting most US lamps and fixtures. E12 is candelabra (12mm) for chandeliers. GU10 is a twist-lock base for track lighting. MR16 is a bi-pin base used in landscape lighting. Always match the base type.
What is the difference between A19, BR30, and PAR38 shapes?
A19 is the standard bulb shape for table lamps. BR30 is for recessed cans with wide beam angles over 90 degrees. PAR38 is for outdoor floodlights with focused beams. Globe shapes are for vanity mirrors where the bulb is visible.
What are the most common mistakes when choosing bulb types?
Mistake #1: buying the right base but wrong shape for the fixture. Mistake #2: ignoring bulb length. Mistake #3: using standard bulbs in enclosed fixtures rated for smaller bulbs, which traps heat and shortens LED life.
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