Bulbs are very important to provide adequate light in the house and its surroundings. It has rather become a necessity than desire. After the ban of incandescent bulbs on January 1, 2014, the United States of America has come up with various types of bulbs that provide an alternative to 40-70 Watt bulbs. The performance of it is dependent upon the light source (bulb) being used. Different bulbs have different roles and produce various lighting effects.

One such source is called as LUMEN, whose full form is Lighting Understanding for a More Efficient Nation. It is led by the American Lighting Association in alliance to save energy and the National Electrical Manufacture Association. It is in collaboration with 40 or more organizations.

Various types of bulbs

• LEDs
  Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are a popular category of bulbs that are usually seen in average American homes. Light emitting diodes consist of a chip that is present in a plastic container. They are small in size and are effectively combined to form a single light bulb.
  LED lighting is more durable and efficient than any other light source, and are introducing more applications for homes. They are more popular in some types of downlights and under cabinet strips. It has an Energy Star Symbol to ensure good quality and better efficiency in LEDs.
• Incandescent bulbs
  Incandescent or glowing bulbs often produce light when passed through electric current and a filament, which is the reason for its glowing effects. They are best used to cater to demands of high brightness levels. They also save energy and are energy efficient as compared to other light sources. According to the Energy and Independence Act of 2007, incandescent bulbs should produce an equal amount of light combined with less wattage. Wattage being referred to as the amount of electricity produced by a light source.
  The various types of incandescent bulbs are as follows.
  General Service
  These are light bulbs that are cheap and easily available. They were the most used light bulbs in the early 90s. They come at a very low price and produce a warm bright yellow light that is scattered in every direction.   It has three basic shapes, i.e., General, Globe, and Decorative.
  Reflectorized bulbs
  They consist of a reflective coating in nature and direct light in almost the same direction.
  Parabolic Reflector bulbs
  They are also known as PAR and are control efficient. Light fixtures of this type control more light and emit more clarity. They are suitable for outdoor locations and places prone to floods. They are also used to track lights.
  Tungsten-halogen   incandescent bulbs
  These bulbs produce better light as compared to any other incandescent bulbs. Their light is brighter, whiter, and is emitted in all directions. They have a longer shelf life and provide more wattage than any other incandescent bulbs.
  Halogen bulbs
  They are available in two types.
  Line voltage
  It is usually about 120 Watts.
  Low voltage
  It is usually about 12 Volts.