We've come a long way since the days of fire and oil lamps. Take a trip back to elementary school history class where you first learned about the light bulb. Don't remember? Well, the name Thomas Edison should activate that bulb above your head. Back in 1879, Edison created a lamp patent that, after a few tweaks, became known as the light bulb. Since then, these small and delicate glass bulbs have become one of those gadgets we can't live without. It allows us to light homes, backyards, and everything in between.
Light It Up
Ever since the day Edison invented the light bulb, different versions have been produced ranging from fluorescent to strictly energy saving. Bulbs also vary by wattage: sixtywatt bulb which is dim and soft.
* '''Incandescent''': These are standard inexpensive bulbs produce a warm yellow light that makes skin tones look great. However, incandescent light bulbs are not energy efficient. Types of incandescent bulbs include globe, candle, ceiling fan, reflector, and tubular.
* '''Compact Fluorescent Lamps''': Less wattage is used with compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), which means they will save a lot of energy. Unlike incandescent bulbs, CFLs contain mercury and are not cheap. Don't let price be an issue because they're known to last at least six times longer than standard bulbs. That's a lot of pocketed money.
* '''Fluorescent''': Those long white bulbs used in businesses and schools are better known as fluorescent bulbs. They're typically long, but can also be circular or U-shaped. Fluorescent bulbs actually have an incredibly long life and produce a greater amount of light per watt.
* '''Metal Halide Bulb''': Although metal halide bulbs are not exactly efficient, they do produce a very white light. These light bulbs are used in large areas such as gymnasiums and pathways. You can also purchase metal halide bulbs in different colors.
* '''Lowpressure sodium bulbs are used because they have the highest efficiency and are similar to fluorescent bulbs.
* '''LED''': Unlike most bulbs, LED lights lack filaments, but they do last for a long time and don't use a lot of power.
