The history of light bulbs has been mixed with intrigue and controversy: from cynical robberies to mysterious deaths. Since the invention of the traditional incandescent bulb, science has been in charge of publicizing the pros and cons of this device; consequently, we have moved from this to halogen incandescents, to compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), to light emitting diodes (LEDs).
For some years now, incandescent bulbs have been disappearing from the market, leaving us with halogen, CFL and LED options. However, what are the myths that harbor these sources?
Halogen incandescent bulbs, which work in a similar way to their predecessors, use tungsten filament with halogen gas for better combustion. And although the opposite has been said, these types of bulbs do not contain any toxic metal or mercury. On the other hand, although they cost more, they use 25% less energy than traditional incandescents, and they last a little less.
The LFCs, just as efficient as their ancestors, reduced energy use to 75%; In addition, with a duration of up to ten times longer. However, the tonality they emit can alter (from little to a lot) the colors of the objects; including LFCs designed for more detailed sensitivity to tones.
A myth that arose from this bulb is that it was dangerous because of its mercury content; however, a can of tuna and a thermometer have more mercury than this type of bulb itself. So, if it does not break, it does not represent any risk to health; And in case they do break, the best way to clean up the remains is to sweep them up, and place them in a box for certain companies to recycle.
In addition, another of the myths that was generated about this bulb was its high electromagnetic field; which actually ranks below other electrical devices, such as cars and household appliances. On the other hand, it was also believed that CFLs caused epileptic seizures; situation that did happen, but currently the bulbs have electronic ballasts that avoid this type of situation. Only a defective bulb could cause serious epileptic problems, due to a high photosensitivity.
LEDs are the latest innovation in terms of light emissions, which use half the energy of CFLs. They have numerous ways of presenting themselves: both in color and in size. And currently, they are trying to innovate the operation of these spotlights, in order to be able to control them remotely via mobile device applications, and even modify the intensity with which they light up.
What is most striking about LEDs is that they last much longer than their predecessors, around 46 years if they are used for three hours a day, and without affecting turning them on and off continuously.
However, LEDs also have a dark side: they are made of metals such as nickel, arsenic, copper, and lead; which have been related to neurological damage, cancer, kidney disease, skin disease, and even hypertension. Although the functional foci are free of such risks, the debris and remains can affect the health of individuals.
Currently, LEDs are classified as non-toxic elements; however, researchers from the University of California Irvine explain that once the bulbs are sprayed, they have high levels of toxins, causing health risks. Therefore, in the event that an LED bulb breaks, it is best to clean the area with gloves, mulch, and a broom.
So, which option will you use in your home?
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