Gizmodo: incandescent bulbs

Light Bulb Condom Does Not Protect Against STDs, Only the Dreaded EU

Sean Fallon — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EDT

Depending on your location, you may have heard that the European Union is banning all frosted incandescent bulbs in order to stimulate the adoption of efficient lighting. This bulb condom helps get around the rule.

Like most areas, the vast majority of bulbs sold are frosted because of the unsightly glare coming from an exposed filament. By banning these bulbs, the EU can effectively force people to adopt more energy efficient bulbs like CFLs. This thin, heat-resistant silicone cover can be placed over a transparent bulb to transform it from clear to frosted.

I am all about adopting more energy efficient lighting, but a rule like this is probably a bit premature. CFLs often take a while to warm up, they can be a bit bulky and the light quality can sometimes be unappealing. These problems will be ironed out over time, but people shouldn't have to put condoms over bulbs while they wait for CFLs and LEDs to better meet their needs. [Ingo Mauer via Designboom]

Flat Light Bulbs Are an Incandescent Innovation

Sean Fallon — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 15:30:00 EST

The world may be moving on to CFLs, but at least one designer is still thinking about how to improve the classic incandescent bulb. Joonhuyn Kim's concept is simple: flat bulbs take up less space and make them easier (and cheaper) to store and transport. A great idea, if not a little late. Perhaps makers of soft-serve style CFLs could take a page out of this book somewhere down the line. [Designboom]

Question of the Day: Have You Made the Switch to CFLs?

Sean Fallon — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EDT

Given the focus on "greenness" and energy efficiency these days, you have probably been bombarded with messages about tossing out your old incandescent bulbs for CFLs. It is definitely an easy way to save a few bucks on your electric bill, but in many cases there can be a trade-off in light quality. This has become less of an issue in recent years, but I'm sure it still keeps people on the fence about switching. But what about you? Have you made the switch?

[Ecosaber Shirt]

Picking The Right Compact Fluorescent Light For Every Room of Your Home

Sean Fallon — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EDT

We have all heard about how it pays to go green when you ditch your power guzzling incandescent bulbs for money saving, eco-friendly CFLs—but have you given any thought to what type of CFLs work best in a particular room? Wired has, which is why they came up with a guide that covers the best lighting solutions for reading, brushing your teeth and the all-important "business time." Hit the link for the full list. [Wired]