Understanding Recent Regulatory Updates for Incandescent Bulbs

Incandescent bulbs are under scrutiny and many are wondering if these light bulbs are banned completely or if itandrsquo;s okay to use them in certain circumstances. Valley Heating, Cooling, Electrical and Solar is here to help you understand recent regulatory changes as it can be complicated. Keep reading for what you need to know and remember that when you need an electrician you can trust, just call the experts at Valley.

All About the Incandescent Light Bulb Ban

Incandescent light bulbs have been used in homes for years, however, that may change if current trends continue. As LED light bulbs have been increasingly affordable, many are switching to this energy-efficient option that saves money on utility bills and is ultimately better for the environment. But even with the indisputable popularity and benefits of LED light bulbs, does that mean incandescent bulbs are really banned?

For now, it depends on where you live. In the wake of several lawsuits and other legal actions, an incandescent light bulb ban is more or less in effect in California, Washington and Nevada. However, campaigns against incandescent light bulbs are nothing new. In 2007, President George W. Bush signed the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) into law, panning the way for a series of regulations that went into effect between 2012 and 2014. The EISA phased out 60-watt incandescent bulbs over that two-year period.

Last year, a new round of EISA regulations was set to take effect, but the Department of Energy decided not to keep up with previously established standards. Those standards would require the average light bulb to use 65% less energy than traditional incandescent light bulbs, while still delivering the same amount of light. This is what prompted the lawsuits in California, Washington and Nevada, with these states suing the Department of Energy as they enacted their own incandescent light bulb bans.

Trust Valley for Your Electrical Needs This October

At Valley Heating, Cooling, Electrical and Solar, we pride ourselves on helping homeowners keep up with electrical trends. We highly recommend the switch from incandescent to LED light bulbsandmdash;especially since incandescent bulbs will soon be off the market entirely. Beyond that, feel free to give our lighting experts a call when it comes time to put up those Halloween decorations, or inquire about whether installing a ceiling fan could help you this winter (hint: it can.) Our skilled electricians proudly offer a full range of services for area homeowners. Remember, just because itandrsquo;s Halloween time doesnandrsquo;t mean you want a spooky blackout or a power bill thatandrsquo;s scary high!