(Family Features) For many people, a trip down the lighting aisle can be an overwhelming experience, especially when considering the many energy-efficient lighting options available. Whether looking at light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs or compact fluorescent technology (CFL) bulbs, there are some factors you should think about before making a purchase.

Recent studies have found that most homeowners aren’t ready to make the leap to newer energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as LED and CFL. But those who are making the switch from incandescent bulbs to GE Energy-Efficient Soft White bulbs are doing so at a rate of two-to-one, compared to CFL bulbs.

“We understand that consumers are overwhelmed by all of the changes in the lighting aisle, and whatever their lighting preference, we have reliable lighting options for them,” says John Strainic, general manager, Consumer Lighting for GE in North America. “For consumers who still want an incandescent-like bulb, our incandescent isn’t gone-it’s more energy efficient. Our Energy-Efficient Soft White bulb provides a warm, cozy light and dimming capabilities, but saves energy and meets federal brightness requirements.”

Small upgrades equal big savings

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, lighting consumes up to 17 percent of a home’s overall energy usage. With an annual energy savings of $2.05 per bulb, a household that replaces forty 60-watt incandescent bulbs with 43-watt Energy-Efficient Soft White bulbs could save more than $80 a year based on 3 hours use per day and an 11c/kWh electricity rate. For more information, visit http://www.gelighting.com/EESW.

“Our newer lighting technologies, such as GE’s Energy-Efficient Soft White bulbs, are specially engineered to provide the light consumers love the same way it was delivered more than a century ago,” said Strainic. “But today we can meet federal brightness requirements without as much wasted energy.”

Other energy-saving options

One popular option in energy-efficient lighting is the LED bulb. Though the price for this option can be higher than others, experts believe that prices should decrease as LED technology evolves, allowing for a broader mass market appeal. Another more energy-efficient lighting option is CFL bulb technology, which has been in the market now for more than 30 years and has greatly improved to mirror the performance of a traditional incandescent light.

As new energy-efficiency standards are set to take place Jan. 1, 2014, consumers will choose between these more energy-efficient lighting options, including Energy-Efficient Soft White, or halogen technology, CFL or LED bulbs. Consumers will still be able to find a limited supply of incandescent bulbs at some retailers until inventory is gone.

For those wishing to save money on energy bills, having an understanding of the different energy-efficient lighting options available can help to make an informed purchasing decision.

Source: GE