Designing With Light Outdoors
The wide
variety of available bulbs (called "lamps" in the industry) means
that you can tailor your choice to your needs.
Bulb
type and light output
You may prefer soft illumination in some areas,
bright in others. Watts are a measure of electricity consumed, but some
bulbs yield more light than others of equal wattage. Remember the longer
the distance of light throw, or the greater the intensity desired, the
more light output required.
Efficiency and energy
savings
Some types are more efficient than others. Low
voltage, for example, can save energy by concentrating light beams, but
it generally lacks the equivalent beam throw of line voltage. Newer 65-and
120-watt incandescent bulbs yield up to 25% more light. New compact fluorescent
bulbs provide soft lighting and the highest energy savings. Mercury vapor
bulbs offer strong illumination with energy savings, but project a cool
color suitable only for greenery.
Quartz/Incand Tungsten-Halogen
Compact light source which provides a consistently
bright light. Also available as a reflector (MR) and as a projector (PAR)
type. These fit into smaller and less obtrusive fixtures. 
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Fluorescent
White long tubes are primarily used for walls,
banisters and signs, compact fluorescent bulbs provide a soft light quality
and the highest energy saving. (Some temperature restrictions apply.)
Mercury Vapor/High Pressure
Sodium
This family, known as high-intensity discharge,
provide intense light at low energy cost. Their color renditions limit
use, and they do not go on immediately - they must warm up.
Note: Most of the above types are available
for either 120-volt or 12-volt systems, but you must specify the system.
Fluorescent, Mercury Vapor and High Pressure Sodium are for 120-volt only.
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