Many of us do not change lighting sources for years until they physically burn out. It seems that if the light is on, then everything is in order. However, experts say that outdated lamps can cause cumulative health damage that we often attribute to fatigue or stress.
Invisible flicker
The most common problem with old incandescent lamps and cheap LEDs of the first generations is high ripple factor. The human eye doesn’t always notice lights flashing quickly, but our brains detect these flashes all the time. This creates a tremendous burden on the nervous system.
Consequences of prolonged exposure to such light:
-
Chronic eye fatigue and decreased visual acuity.
-
Unreasonable headaches and migraines at the end of the day.
-
Decreased concentration and overall performance.
Toxic filling of energy-saving lamps
Popular ten years ago, fluorescent lamps, which were called “energy-saving”, contain inside the bulb mercury vapor. While the lamp is intact, it is relatively safe, but over time the glass becomes more fragile due to constant temperature changes.
The slightest microcrack in the base or bulb leads to the fact that toxic substances begin to leak into the air. If such a lamp is broken indoors, the concentration of mercury may briefly exceed permissible standards by tens of times, which requires immediate and complex chemical demercurization premises.
Distorted color spectrum
Old lamps often have low color rendering index (CRI). This means that surrounding objects appear dull, with unnatural gray or greenish hues. In addition to aesthetic discomfort, this affects the psychological state, causing a feeling of depression.
Moreover, degraded LEDs change their spectrum over time, moving into cold blue tones. Excess of such light in the evening blocks production melatonin – sleep hormone. This leads to insomnia and disruption of the body’s circadian rhythms.
Timely replacement of light sources with modern and high-quality analogues is a simple way to take care of your own health and safety at home.
About the Author
