While changing a bulb in one of our rooms, replacing a LED with a CFL because of a need for brighter lighting in this work area, it suddenly hit me: Why does an LED light have a bulb? In both incandescent and CFLs, the bulbs trap gas (or vacuum as the case may be.) But why an LED? It doesn't use a gas and it doesn't need to operate in a near-vacuum for efficiency. Closer examination showed that the bulb was plastic and had no lensing effect.
This question is almost answered
here. Because of the question regarding heat sinks (which seem much reduced in modern LED lights, I'm guessing the answer is because they get hot. So I'm guessing that's what it is, though I also think that having a bulb makes it easier to screw into the socket. Taking these points together, I can imagine getting a burn if there was not bulb by brushing up agains an LED stalk that was on until a few seconds ago when you decided to unscrew it.
So...have I answered my own question or is there more behind the bulb?
posted by BillW
on Jan 29, 2013 -
9 answers
Can I use a CFL or LED bulb in an outside flood light type fixture that is hooked up to an in-wall Intermatic timer? I was told no but I would like to confirm. If that is the case, I'd love a short explanation in plain English. I tried Googling but I'm still confused.
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posted by dottiechang
on Nov 10, 2012 -
11 answers
Okay, need some help regarding a broken CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) in my 2-year-old son's room. I've looked through a couple of similar questions here, but this situation is a little different so I'm hoping for more specific insight. I've also already seen a lot of varying information relating to proper clean-up procedures, potential long-term contamination and adverse health effects, etc. I really need to know what I should be concerned about with regard to my son's health.
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posted by S1C EM
on Feb 11, 2010 -
24 answers
Which CFL bulbs are the longest lasting and cheapest to buy? I'm concerned about saving money on my electric bill but not worried about mercury content (if lights are broken). Are there any CFL bulb giveaways
that are online?
posted by boby
on Dec 20, 2008 -
12 answers
I broke a compact fluorescent light bulb in my bedroom. Rudimentary cleanup, but I'm
must go to bed, and my husband's already asleep in there. I saw the scary "leave the room for 15 minutes" mercury warnings on the government cleanup page. Anybody know the science? How bad is this?
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posted by LobsterMitten
on Feb 27, 2008 -
10 answers
