Although, LEDs have the benefits of longer lifetimes and higher energy efficiency then other light bulbs, many consumers would rather stick to incandescent bulbs. With the U.S. incandescent light bulb bans effective as of Jan. 1 this year, StatesmanJournal.com outlines top four reasons as to why consumers still have a special thing for incandescent bulbs:
1. Costs
LEDs upfront costs are a major put off for many consumers. LEDs on average cost about US$ 20, nearly double the price for CFLs which are around US$ 10. While the bulbs are more energy efficient and can save more than incandescent bulbs, it makes little difference for average consumers that do not have big electricity bills. Compared to commercial lighting that consumes around 21% of electricity, the average U.S. household only uses around 13% of electricity, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
2. Color
As noted by others, LED and CFL light bulb colors tend to be less warm than incandescent bulbs. CFL’s used to have a bluish tone and could not match incandescent bulb colors, but this has changed with technological advancements, said Joe Rey-Barreau, a lighting design professor at the University of Kentucky and a consultant with the American Lighting Association.
3. Bulb shape
Weird bulb shapes especially CFL’s corkscrew shape has not been well received by consumers. Consumers in general seek familiarity. (Wonder what this will mean for Philip’s flat horseshoe bulb?)
4. Habit
Consumer purchase habits are not easily changed. “That’s all people have known for most of their lives, and it’s only the last five, six years this whole issue of energy efficiency has become a greater priority,” said Rey-Barreau.
