john wrote:

"TMC" wrote in message
...
Replacing bulbs in xmas lights is always more expensive than buying a new
set of lights

I normally buy 2 or more sets of the same type and then retire one of the
sets when I run out of spare bulbs
I can then use the remaining ones from one set as replacements in the
others for several years
With very cheap single sets I just throw them as the bulbs fittings are
usually not available 12 months on

I wonder why the makers go to the trouble of tooling up to make a
'different' type of bulb. You would think they would have rationalised by
now.

Most of the 'different' types of bulbs are really slightly different
holders for standardish bulbs.

If you go to any lamp maker with an order for a hundred million bulbs,
the cost of any slight variation you might like for other reasons
is very slight, maybe a few thousand pounds at most to reset the
machinery.