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The light bulb reinvented

Are low-energy light bulbs and LEDs available with a standard screw fitting?

LEDs
Three types of low-energy bulbs have replaced incandescent light bulbs:

  • high-efficiency halogen bulbs;
  • low-energy bulbs (compact fluorescent bulbs);
  • LEDs.

These bulbs are available in various sizes and capacities. There are usually two versions:

  • either they are designed specifically for new types of lighting;
  • or they are designed with a standard screw fitting and dimensions so that they are compatible with old lighting appliances.

So incandescent bulbs can be replaced by these bulbs without any problem.

Compatibility and dimming?

1. High-efficiency halogen bulbs

These bulbs are available with a screw fitting, so incandescent bulbs can easily be replaced by this more energy-saving alternative which offers the same light quality.
What’s more, they can also be dimmed.

2. Compact fluorescent bulbs or ‘low-energy bulbs’

These bulbs often have the same fitting incandescent bulbs, which means that they can almost always be used to replace them without any problem (unless there is not enough room in the light appliance, so be sure to check the dimensions).
N.B.: many compact fluorescent bulbs cannot be dimmed. (In other words: you cannot vary the intensity of the light).

Note: it is better not to use low-energy bulbs in rooms where the light is switched on very frequently and for a short period each time.

3. LED lighting

At the moment LEDs are used mainly for mood lighting. However, as they correspond to the standard screw fitting, they can already be used to replace conventional 60 W incandescent bulbs. LEDs are constantly being improved and will eventually be able to replace other bulbs.
A dimmable version of LED bulbs is also available.

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