The main types of light bulbs available in the UK are:

• Incandescent Bulbs: Traditional bulbs that produce light by heating a filament. They are less energy-efficient and have been largely phased out.
• Halogen Bulbs: A type of incandescent bulb that is slightly more energy-efficient and produces a bright, white light.
• Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs): Energy-saving bulbs that use less electricity than incandescent bulbs and have a longer lifespan.
• Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs): Highly energy-efficient bulbs with a long lifespan and available in various colours and brightness levels.
• Smart Bulbs: LED bulbs that can be controlled via smartphone apps, voice assistants, or other smart home systems.

• Energy Efficiency: LEDs use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
• Long Lifespan: They can last up to 25,000-50,000 hours, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
• Low Heat Emission: LEDs produce very little heat, making them safer and more efficient.
• Instant Brightness: They reach full brightness immediately when switched on.
• Environmental Impact: LEDs do not contain hazardous materials like mercury and are fully recyclable.

Base Type: Ensure the bulb’s base matches the socket of your fixture (e.g., bayonet, screw).

Wattage: Choose a bulb with the appropriate wattage for the fixture to avoid overheating.

Lumens: This measures the bulb’s brightness. Higher lumens mean brighter light.

Colour Temperature: Measured in Kelvin (K), it ranges from warm white (2700K-3000K) to cool white (4000K-5000K) and daylight (5000K-6500K).

Dimmability: Ensure the bulb is compatible with dimmer switches if you need adjustable lighting.

Smart bulbs are LED bulbs that can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app, voice assistants (e.g., Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant), or other smart home systems. They often offer features like colour changing, scheduling, and energy monitoring. Smart bulbs connect to your home Wi-Fi network or a smart hub, allowing you to control them from anywhere.

Yes, light bulbs in the UK must comply with various regulations to ensure safety and energy efficiency. Key regulations include:

• EU Ecodesign Directive: Sets minimum energy efficiency standards and requirements for light bulbs.
• Energy Labelling: Bulbs must display an energy label indicating their efficiency rating, from A++ (most efficient) to E (least efficient).
• RoHS Directive: Restricts the use of certain hazardous substances, like mercury, in electrical and electronic equipment.