There are 32 light fixtures blazing away in an average American
household. These are the lights in your fridge, hallway, workshop, and porch.
Most of these light bulbs are cheap two-for-a-dollar incandescent,
screw-type bulbs. This is remarkable because the incandescent bulbs have
been around for over a century using the same technology. Although these
bulbs still suffice for the lighting needs of the average household,
people have become discriminating and looked for other options. Popular
choices for many households are halogen lights and bulbs. They are
preferred over the incandescent varieties because they emit light that are
of whiter and brighter nature. Also, these halogen lights and bulbs
generally last longer than ordinary incandescent lights.
How do these halogen lights and bulbs differ from the incandescent
lights? Their difference primarily lies on the principles governing their
functions. Incandescent lights work by having electricity flow through a
fine filament of tungsten inside the bulb filled with argon gas. This
action causes the filament to resist the electric flow, which makes the
argon gas heat up. The heat causes the argon gas to glow and emit
light. Miniscule tungsten particles evaporate and accumulate on bulb walls
as soot. As the tungsten burns out, the filament grows weak and
ultimately, burn out. There are key disadvantages to this process. First, the
soot reduces light emission, resulting in duller light output. Second,
the soot weakens the tungsten filament and makes it brittle, hence,
promoting faster burnout. Given these problems, incandescent lights are
best suited for low traffic areas where soft lighting are better
appreciated like the bedrooms.
The function of halogen lights are similar to those of incandescent
bulbs, but with key structural differences. Halogen lights and bulbs are
composed of peanut-sized and pressurized bulbs inside larger outer
shells. The inner bulbs are halogen chambers. The halogen from these bulbs
direct the evaporating tungsten to the filaments. As a result, the
tungsten filament is constantly rebuilt. Decreased outer shell soot
maintains bright light output. The rebuilding of the tungsten filament also
makes the halogen lights last longer. The brighter and whiter light of the
halogen bulbs make them suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways,
living spaces, and work areas.
Because of these qualities, halogen lights and bulbs are preferable in
most situations. There are several benefits from using halogen lights.
Halogen lights are perfect for exacting tasks that require focus like
reading or woodworking. Bright lighting reduces risks of eye strain and
eye problems. Mistakes are also lessened because everything is put
under clearer focus. Halogen lights are also best for display purposes.
Bright light highlights artworks, crystals, and photos perfectly by making
the colors and features stand out vibrantly. Halogen floodlights are
suitable for outdoor lighting because they illuminate places with
brighter light. Generally, halogen bulbs are cheaper than the standard
incandescent because they eliminate the need for frequent replacements.
However, halogen lights and bulbs heat up quickly. As such, they must
be installed in higher places or in built-in recesses. Their bright
lights, while beneficial, must be shaded to prevent eye problems. Halogen
lights and bulbs are not perfect, but with proper installation and
correct use, they can serve homeowners longer and better.
