Making the switch to low energy light bulbs requires a bit of preparation because of the number and range of different bulbs in the average UK home. On average our homes each have 25 bulbs, with different wattages, sizes and so on.
There is now a better range of low energy bulbs available than ever before and you can replace almost all of your old incandescent bulbs with them.
We recommend you follow this step by step process:
1. Go round your house and write down a list of details for the bulbs you currently use, including:
- Name of room
- Wattage of the bulb (60w, 75w, 100w etc. - this should be printed on the bulb)
- Size, shape and colour (e.g. are they standard size bulb or small, are they candle shaped, or colour toned?)
- Type and size of fixture (screw or bayonet, standard-sized fixture or small)
2. Work out the wattage for a low energy bulb that matches the wattage of your current bulbs using the table below (for example a 20 watt low energy bulb gives off the same light as a 100w old-style bulb)
| ‘Old-style' Incandescant Bulbs | New Low Energy Bulbs |
| 25 watts | 6 watts |
| 40 watts | 8-11watts |
| 60 watts | 15 watts |
| 75 watts | 18 watts |
| 100 watts | 20-25 watts |
| 150 watts | 32 watts |
3. Go on the Internet on buy one of each type of bulb you need, to test that you are getting exactly the right type. Click here to go to a selection of on-line retailers
Top Tips When Buying Low Energy Bulbs
- Look for an EU energy label rating of A or B, or an Energy Saving Recommended Logo on the bulbs that you buy
- If you want to install a few bulbs just to try them out first, focus on the lights that you use the most, e.g. in the hall or landing or children's rooms
- Prices on offer can vary considerably so check two or three on-line retailers to compare prices
