photo courtesy of western montana lighting
"...Incandescent lamps are NOT illegal...
The new incandescent bulbs being produced are more energy
efficient and brighter. We are selling them like hotcakes."
- Carolyn Overman
Fluorescent and LED lamps have longer
lifespans, greater energy efficiency, and save
more money in the long run in spite of their
initially higher price tag; but, they lose the
romance of the incandescent glow. However,
Brekke explains that a white LED dimmed
30% or an amber LED dimmed 15% can
"bring the romance back."
Whether starting with new construction
or an existing home, Carolyn Overman,
owner (with her husband, Ben) of Western
Montana Lighting in Missoula, offers vital
perspective.
"People spend a lot of time picking the
color of their carpet, paint, window treat-
Lighting efficiency also contributes to
optimum results in lighting your home.
There are basically three lamp (bulb) options:
incandescent, fluorescent, and LED. Some
think incandescent bulbs have been banned,
but the report of their demise has been greatly
exaggerated. Rather, regulations exist requiring them to meet stricter guidelines of energy
efficiency. This may be good news to those
who especially like the nice, yellow glow they
emit. Yet, incandescent bulbs still have to be
replaced frequently (which can be especially
problematic with hard to reach fixtures) and
the newer versions may be more expensive
than the older versions.
Tablet controlled lighting
courtesy of Black Box Design
58
D I ST I NCT LY M ONTANA • SU M M E R 2013
