Incandescent light bulbs

The incandescent lamp—also called a light bulb because of its shape—is the oldest type of electricLight source and revolutionized the lighting market at the time. The American Thomas Alva Edison is usually credited as its inventor, although he actually only made decisive improvements to the incandescent light bulb. This light source is a typical thermal emitter, as it ultimately produces more heat than light. Only 5% of the energy is actually converted into light; the rest is thermal radiation, which is why most of it falls within the infrared spectrum.

An incandescent light bulb works and emits light thanks to its filament, which is located inside the glass bulb. When an electric current is applied, the filament begins to glow and thus emits light. Due to the very poor energy efficiency of incandescent light bulbs—especially when compared to LEDs—the phase-out of this type of lighting was mandated in the European Union under Regulation No. 244/2009, “Requirements for the Ecodesign of Household Lamps Emitting Unfocused Light.” Incandescent bulbs were therefore gradually phased out of the market, with the exception of specialized lighting such as that used in ovens or refrigerators.

Other reasons to choose a high-qualityLED When discussing lamps instead of incandescent bulbs, factors to consider—in addition to energy efficiency—include the shorter lifespan of incandescent bulbs and the associated higher long-term costs. As a result, this familiar type of light bulb is gradually being phased out of all households and replaced with newer products.