Energy saving light bulbs: Your light bulb concerns answered Replacement light bulbs
Using energy-saving light bulbs should save you money
Why can't I find the same range of traditional bulbs as I used to?
Less efficient traditional light bulbs will be phased out by 2012, due to EU rules. Find out which light bulbs are affected, when they’ll be phased out and what bulbs you can replace them with, below.
Plus, take a look at our independent review of energy-saving light bulbs to find out which performed best during our testing.
Why are traditional light bulbs being phased out?
Energy-saving light bulbs are more efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. According to Defra, the traditional light bulb has not changed since the time of Queen Victoria - and these bulbs waste 95% of electricity they use through heat. Switching to energy savers reduces the amount of electricity used to light your home and can save you money on your electricity bill.
Which bulbs are being phased out?
The phase-out of traditional incandescent light bulbs in favour of more energy-saving bulbs started in September 2009, with the withdrawal of all 150 watt (W) and clear 100W incandescent bulbs. That was followed in September 2010 by 75W bulbs.
After each phase-out date, shops will no longer be able to buy new stocks of ‘phased-out’ types of bulb, but they can sell off existing stock after those dates.
Many major UK retailers - including Argos, Asda, B&Q, Homebase, Ikea, Sainsbury's and Tesco - have phased out supplies earlier than these dates.
Instead you'll be able to buy compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) - which are the most common type of energy-saving bulbs - plus energy-saving halogen light bulbs and LED light bulbs. See our energy-saving light bulbs reviews for the bulbs we recommend as Best Buys.
When will the mandatory phase out of these light bulbs take place?
After these dates, manufacturers will no longer be able to distribute certain types of light bulbs, and retailers won't be able to order new stocks of them.
1 September 2011
- 60W clear incandescent lamps
1 September 2012
- All remaining clear incandescent lamps (40W and 25W)
1 September 2016
- Phase out of C-class retrofit halogen lamps
Low-energy light bulbs will not cause skin cancer
Do I need to replace my traditional light bulbs now?
No - you can either continue to use traditional light bulbs in your home until they need replacing, or you can switch to energy-saving light bulbs straightaway to start making savings on your electricity bill.
What about special purpose bulbs, for example for oven lights?
Where special purpose bulbs can't be replaced by energy-efficient alternatives they will not be affected by the phase-out.
Will light bulb packaging change?
You might notice a subtle change to light bulb packaging. Since September 2010 manufacturers have been required by legislation to provide more information on certain types of energy saving light bulb packaging to help consumers choose the best lamp for their needs.
You can find out about the information on the box and what it means in our energy-saving light bulb buying guide.
What about different shaped light bulbs and fittings?
Energy-saving light bulbs come in a range of different shapes and sizes - including candle-shaped and smaller globe-shaped bulbs - so you should be able to find an energy-saving version of the type of bulb you want.
Some energy-saving light bulbs can be used with dimmer switches - suitability for use with dimmer switches should be stated on the packaging, so check before you buy.
- Which? Advice: light bulb myths and rumours put straight
- Find the right bulbs for your rooms with our light bulb features guide
