Posted on 23rd Feb 2011 @ 12:58 PM

The Light Bulb Ban

There are a few common misconceptions regarding “the light bulb ban” so let us try and clear a few of them up!

Firstly, many people think that it is illegal to sell the ‘banned’ bulbs. The selling of the bulbs that have been banned is not illegal. It is illegal for them to be manufactured or imported in to the UK but companies that had them in stock before the ban can still sell them.

Secondly, a frequent misconception is that all normal light bulbs have been banned. This again, is not the case. Below, we outline the bulbs that have been banned from production and import.

From Sept 2009 - Non-clear (frosted, pearl and opal) incandescent lamps. Also, incandescent lamps above 100w were banned from production.

From Sept 2010 – The production of Clear 75w incandescent lamps was ceased unless they have an Energy efficiency rating of C or above.

From Sept 2011 – The production of Clear 60w incandescent lamps will no longer be allowed unless they have an Energy efficiency rating of C or above.

And finally… From Sept 2012 - Clear 40w incandescent lamps and clear 25 watts incandescent lamps will no longer be manufactured.

There are some exceptions to the rules with application specific and special purpose lamps still allowed. For example, oven lamps, rough service and reflectors remain in production.

With regard to fluorescent tubes……….

Halophosphate can no longer be manufactured or imported in to the UK and they have now been superseded by triphosphor tubes. Triphosphor tubes offer the buyer the following benefits -much longer life, greater efficiency and significantly improved colour rendering.

T12 Tubes will cease to be produced from April 2012. T12 tubes can usually be replaced with their T8 equivalent.

Our advice?

Switch to energy saving compact fluorescents (our sales team will gladly assist you if you need any help!) or stock up on the old style while stocks last. We are one of the few online suppliers with stocks remaining!