Kinds of Lighting
There are many different types of lighting, and each type is appropriate for different applications. Broadly speaking, most lamp types fall into one of three categories: incandescent, discharge or solid state.
Incandescent lamps are the traditional ‘light bulb’ and have been in existence for over 100 years. They are mainly used in domestic settings and in display lighting in shops, hotels and restaurants. They tend to have a short lifetime and manufacturers have been developing new products that are more energy efficient.
Discharge lighting is most familiar as ‘fluorescent tubes’, seen commonly in offices, warehouses and retailers. These lamps have been available since the 1930’s [originally known as T12 and T8 lighting], but have evolved over time to become a more energy efficient option [commonly known as T5 lighting]. Older lighting tends to have a higher wattage and not be as bright, and is susceptible to discolouration.
Solid state lighting is the term given to LED [light emitting diode] lighting. Although LED lighting has been in used in electrical components for over 40 years, it has only relatively recently that it has become commercially available. Using a very low wattage, LED’s can create a high level of light, and typically have a very long lifespan compared to other lighting.