HID light bulbs (or HID light lamps as people in the lighting industry refer to them) are defined as high intensity discharge lights, meaning that they produce more light than a regular light bulb. HID refers to the electric arc that makes the light show up. The light actually shows because of salts made of metal, which are ignited, and then turned to vapor in the lamp chamber. HID lights are said to produce light that is more similar to sunlight than traditional halogen lights.

HID lights are typically used to provide outside lighting, for example, in landscaping, or as security lighting. They are also the preferred method of lighting for street lighting, alleys, parking lots, and shopping facilities. Because the light they give off seems to go farther, lights better in foggy weather, and is cheaper, many municipalities are choosing to install HID lighting vs. incandescent bulbs.

Positives

HID lights are preferred by many individuals all over the world because they produce more light for the amount of power used than typical lights which are halogen bulbs. This creates an energy savings in addition to the increased visibility. HID lights are a blue-ish white beam of light, and it is estimated that these lights give off 300% more light as a halogen bulb. HID lights are helpful to see farther in bad lighting or difficult weather conditions. HID light bulbs are also more efficient, producing more light using less power. One of the greatest benefits is that HID light bulbs run for approximately 1000 hours longer than a normal halogen light bulb. HID bulbs are also may be better for the environment also because they can be recycled, although you must handle HID light bulbs with care when transporting.

Negatives

One bad thing that HID lights are associated with is that they usually contain mercury, which is difficult to dispose of. There are several problems associated with mercury spills, but mainly, it is extremely difficult to clean up. You must wear plastic gloves and be very careful with the cleanup. HID light lamps unfortunately contain the most mercury of bulbs created today, so you must always handle them with care. Also, HID light bulbs are more costly not only to purchase as a consumer, but also to produce and repair. Although they last longer, many shoppers are turned off by the high cost and choose other routes for lighting.