Can You Buy Incandescent Light Bulbs May 2026

While you cannot buy standard incandescent bulbs for general home lighting due to energy efficiency bans, you can still legally purchase for specific tasks. Where to Buy Them

: Infrared bulbs used for brooding animals or keeping food warm.

Standard "General Service Lamps" (GSLs) were phased out because they are highly inefficient, wasting roughly rather than light. By 2028, efficiency standards in the U.S. are scheduled to increase further to 125 lumens per watt , focusing the market almost entirely on high-efficiency LEDs. can you buy incandescent light bulbs

: Specific bulbs for medical equipment or scientific instruments. Why the Restriction?

: Plant "grow" lights, black lights, bug lights, and heavy-duty "rough service" bulbs. While you cannot buy standard incandescent bulbs for

: Retailers like 1000Bulbs.com and Bulbs.com carry a wide range of task-specific incandescent options.

: Local shops may still have "New Old Stock" (NOS) on shelves until their inventory is completely exhausted. Exemptions (What You Can Still Buy) By 2028, efficiency standards in the U

: For use inside ovens , microwaves, and refrigerators.