Changing the light bulb is something that has been a chore since back to our light bulb changing forefathers. Often a fresh light bulb and a sturdy stool is all people conjure when you mention a light bulb replacement task. Where it is a simple task, there is still plenty of information everyone should know. Today, we at Peterkin Electric would like to elaborate on the different types of light bulbs, where the used ones should go, and a few quick tips on changing it.

Types of Light Bulbs

There are more variations of light bulbs than there has ever been. With four major groups, which can still be intimidating, there are dozens of light bulb choices. The right bulb is readily available, depending on the cost, light production, and energy efficiency that you are looking for. Below is a brief light bub guide to help you choose.
Incandescent Light Bulbs: These are standard bulbs that give off warm, yellowed light. Because they are basic, they are common and used for years, however, they lose 90% of their energy just through the heat they give off.
Halogen Incandescent: Following a 2007 law that prohibited energy wastage in commercial products, Halogen gas began appearing in bulbs. While managing the same amount of light, this small change improved the energy usage of these bulbs.
CFL Light Bulbs: CFLs, or Compact Fluorescents, are once an expensive ice cream-shaped light bulb but now are an affordable energy efficient bulb that have more brightness and becoming increasingly popular.
LED Light Bulbs: These parachute-shaped bulbs have powerful lighting and longer lifespans and another light bulb that was once an expensive option that has since decreased due to their popularity.

How to Change a Light Bulb

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Turn the power off: Though this may seem obvious, there are some who do not realize the power should be shut down for safety. Simply ensuring the light switch is in the “off” position is adequate. This will prevent any shocking and give the bulb a chance to cool off, so it is easier to handle. Ensure your tool/step ladder is sturdy and secure. This can be a potentially dangerous stop if your chosen platform is weak or unsteady. You should be able to stand on it without it rocking or tipping to any big extent. Tumbling over while changing a light bulb can be dangerous with the obstacles surrounding the area.
Take Out the Old Light Bulb: Do no grasp the bulb too firmly, or you risk smashing it and cutting yourself. The bulb may be a bayonet-style fitting if the bulb doesn’t turn left freely. Should this rare instance apply to you, simply push the bulb firmly into the fitting to see if it retracts into the socket. Push it all the way in, then twist it left if it does.
Replace the New Light Bulb: Choose your preferred replacement bulb and twist it into the socket using just enough force as you used to remove the old one.
Test he bulb: Flip the power switch to turn the light back on after the installation is complete. The light should turn on and you should be back in the light business with the efficient bulb switch.
Old Light Bulb Disposal: Ready to explode into a shower of glass at the slightest bump, old light bulbs are fragile. Do not throw light bulbs in the trash as they can easily shatter and be a safety hazard for the garbage men or animals. Wrap up the bulb in smaller bag or a large piece of balled up newspaper or magazine pages.

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