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The Biden Administration banned the sale of incandescent light bulbs for general service lamps in 2023. All household light bulbs must meet a minimum efficiency of 45 lumens per watt, three times that of a standard incandescent light bulb. 

The main motivation was to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. It is expected that banning incandescent light bulbs will cut over 200 million metric tons of carbon emissions over the next 30 years. Some bulbs are exempt, like chandelier lights and Christmas lights.

GFCI outlets generally need to be replaced every 7 to 15 years, though some may fail in as little as 5 years, depending on usage. It is important to test them regularly. Signs that a GFCI outlet is failing or has reached the end of its lifespan include: no power coming from the outlet, the outlet not resetting when the 'reset' button is pressed, or the outlet not tripping when the 'test' button is pressed. If you notice any of these issues, it is time to replace the outlet, and it's best to contact an electrician to do so.

You can use both LED and incandescent bulbs in an incandescent fixture as long as the bulb base is the right size. Never use a higher wattage than what the fixture recommends. However, it’s usually safe when transitioning to LED bulbs because they typically have a lower wattage than their incandescent counterparts.

Buying a house with aluminum wiring requires careful consideration due to potential fire risks. Ensure a thorough inspection by a licensed electrician to assess the condition and identify necessary safety upgrades—factor in these additional costs when deciding. While it may not be a total deal-breaker, understanding the risks and required maintenance is necessary. Also, you should consult your insurer about coverage for homes with aluminum wiring to know whether the house is insurable.