Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
It's a Bright Idea!

Additional light bulb regulations are going into effect starting in January of 2013 and 2014. The upcoming changes to the regulations will phase out more incandescent, halogen, and fluorescent light bulbs for more energy-efficient bulbs.

What does the new legislation state?

Beginning in January 2012 and phasing through the start of 2014, the U.S. Federal lighting efficiency standards has approved legislation banning the manufacturing of most 100, 75, 60, and 40-watt incandescent light bulbs.

Additional legislation added in July of 2012 and phasing into 2014, mandates that halogen bulbs greater than 35-watts (PAR20, PAR30, and PAR38) and linear "tube" fluorescent bulbs (T8, T12, F32, F34, F40, and F96) be replaced by a bulb that uses less energy, but produces the same amount of light output. The new legislation mandates that these incandescent light bulbs be replaced by a bulb that uses 30% less energy, but produces the same amount of light output.

What does this mean for you?

After 2012, the incandescent light bulbs that you use today may not be available at your True Value Hardware Store or any other store, for that matter. These bulbs will be replaced with energy-efficient options such as Halogen, CFL, and LED light bulbs.

Is there an exception to the ban?

Yes. Many specialty bulbs such as refrigerator & appliance bulbs, shatter-resistant bulbs, globes, and candelabra bulbs will still be available. The new legislation also does not impact linear "tube" fluorescents in sizes other than 4 and 8 feet.

How much energy do these new light bulbs really save?

Quite a lot! After the new regulations go into effect, U.S households will be on the way to collectively saving close to $6 billion by 2015, according to an estimate by the U.S. Department of Energy. We'll accomplish this because the new light bulbs require less electricity to operate, which saves on energy costs. They also emit less heat than incandescent light bulbs, so cooling systems won't work as hard, thus helping to lower cooling bills. Finally, since the new bulbs last longer, you'll change them less often, and that will save you money as well.

What are the differences among the new light bulbs?

While the most common alternative to incandescent light bulbs used today is the CFL, there are some subtle differences among the options, depending on your lighting fixture and preference. And while the upfront cost of the bulb may be more ($2.99 - $9.99, based on product line and wattage), the cost is more than offset in energy savings and product longevity.