Say Goodbye to Incandescent Light Bulbs

Beginning next year, the government will start phasing out incandescent light bulbs, much to the dismay of users and probably, Thomas Edison. This plan is part of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, which was created “to move the United States toward greater energy independence and security, to increase the production of clean renewable fuels” and  “to protect consumers.”

Most people are still unaware of this law that aims to raise efficiency standards for light bulbs. And, old energy-inefficient incandescents just don’t make the cut. Those that are aware of the law are stocking up on as many light bulbs they can for future use. Some are hoping that they can even sell incandescents if they become pricey novelty items later on.

So, what is the timeline to this phase-out? At the beginning of 2012, 100-watt incandescent bulbs will be eliminated. The next year, 75-watt bulbs will follow. And in 2014, it’s so long to the 40-watt bulb.

Currently, the only other alternative in the market that is more efficient and inexpensive are CFLs (Compact Florescent Lamps). One CFL can burn for 7 years, or 8,000 hours, at a total cost of about $25. They last 10 times longer than standard bulbs. To get the equivalent in incandescents, you’ll have to buy eight bulbs and spend $96. So, by using CFLs, you save about $70. CFLs also use about one-fourth the energy as incandescents and produce 90 percent less as well as more light per watt.

However, a lot of people aren’t fans of CFLs because they need time to warm up, and when you break them, there’s mercury to clean up.

So, what’s next? Well, there’s good news to this phase-out. LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) are being researched at companies like Sylvania. LEDs are just now coming on the market for home use, but we predict that the Energy Independence and Security Act will make LEDs more available in the market, thus lowering their prices.

What do you think of this new legislation to wipe out standard light bulbs? Are you ready to say goodbye to incandescents? Share your thoughts and opinions below.

For more information on LED light bulbs and lighting systems, talk to your friendly customer service representatives at Prima Lighting. We carry a wide range of styles and colors that will suit any home or business. Contact us @ (562) 407-3079 or visit www.primalighting.com. You can also become our fan on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

LED for Your Teeth?

That’s right. It’s the latest advertising tool in Japan that’s got everybody talking. So, where did this all start and what’s this unusual marketing technique for?

LED smiles are catching a lot of buzz all over the Internet. Part of an advertising campaign by a clothing retailer in Japan for their winter line commercial, these neon green grins were designed by Motoi Ishibashi and Daito Manabe, who were inspired by “LED throwies,” a type of lighted graffiti.

Throwies are made up of a lithium battery, a 10mm diffused LED and a magnet that can stick to metal surfaces.

Recreated by Ishibashi and Manabe for the human mouth, LED Smiles can wirelessly change into different colors when the person smiles: green, red, and blue. Users have a hand-held control so they can use it anywhere they go throughout the day and night.

Unfortunately, these LED wonders are not intended for sale, though the company has received numerous requests from people around the world to buy this product.

In the meantime, the store’s designers are offering workshops in Japan for people interested in making these LED smiles for themselves.

What do you think of this new craze? Share your thoughts and opinions below.

If you’re interested in LED lighting for your home or business (and not your mouth), contact the experts at Prima Lighting. We have hundreds of unique and elegant designs to choose from and our helpful customer service representatives as well as our interactive Web site make it easy for you to build your own LED lighting system. Call us at @ (562) 407-3079 or visit www.primalighting.com. You can also become our fan on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

2011 Gets Brighter and Brighter!

What a better way to start the new year than redecorating your living or work space with our sophisticated lighting systems! Prima Lighting has an extensive selection of designs to choose from. And, with our newest collection for the 2011 Season, there’s even more ways to add style and innovative lighting to your home or business!

Our collection includes new LED recess lighting designs that come in all shapes and sizes, including 3”, 4”, 5” and 6”. You can pair them with our various selection of trims, with styles ranging from techno to miniature die cast to glam. We even have a unique, square wall recess light that stands out from the standard round recess lighting systems.

We make it easy for you to keep your design flexible, with interchangeable glass pendants that have a wide range of styles to choose from, so there is one for every mood and taste. There are pendants that stand out on their own, becoming the focal point and conversation piece of any space. There are also pendants that have simple designs with a touch of elegance that will easily blend within the room.

One of our newest glass pendants is the Sahara Sunset Tiramisu, a contemporary design with delicious auburn hues in a whimsical swirl pattern. It’s sure to create a warm, inviting atmosphere in any space. Plus, we offer a wide range of lighting systems you can pair it with, making it not only stylish, but practical as well.

Want to see more? Check out our full collection of products on our website: www.primalighting.com and tell us what you think of our versatile designs by leaving your comments below.