What Should I Look for When Choosing a Light Bulb?

While lightbulbs generally serve one very simple purpose, choosing the right one for your needs is a rather tricky process.

This is a recurring issue: With all the options in the market today, homeowners who are not quite adept with the new technology can get confused.

When choosing a light bulb, you don’t necessarily think about the environment, your electric bill, or your emotional wellbeing. But, the right light bulb can certainly address some of the issues that fall under these categories!

So, the next time you’re in the market for a new light bulb to replace your old one, make sure you’re equipped with the right knowledge to make the most informed choice.

While there are certainly a lot of top picks when it comes to light bulb options, we want to simplify the problem further by offering 4 of our expert tips when choosing a light bulb for your home.

Ready for better lighting in your home? Let’s begin!

 

Tip #1: Choose LED

Compared to old school incandescent bulbs, LEDs present some new concepts that can be hard for us to understand. However, the pros significantly outweigh the cons when it comes to LEDs.

Yes, LEDs are more costly than incandescent light bulbs. But theyare more cost-effective. Compared to the old bulbs, LEDs last at least 25 times longer. They also use more or less 75% less energy than the old light bulbs.

What does this mean? It means that while you initially shell out more money, you save more in the end.

And the best part?

You help in the fight against climate change since switching to LED bulbs saves as much electricity as that produced by 44 large power plants.

Another plus is, that since LEDs are semiconductors, they can come in all shapes and sizes. Manufacturers are now mass producing a lot of creative options for every homeowner to choose from.

Depending on the client’s requirement, some LED bulbs can even be customized. The beauty of this approach is that you are able to accomplish both beautification and functionality in one shot.

It is possible that this type of technology can (if it hasn’t already done so) open up more opportunities for both homeowners and manufacturers.

So, if you want to make a dazzling statement (pun intended) while having adequately illuminated spaces that don’t hurt the environment or your wallet, go for the LED options.

 

Tip #2: Determine how your light bulb can serve its purpose

It does not matter whether you are lighting your living room or your kitchen, the right light bulb can make all the difference in the world.

Dimmable recessed light fixtures are great for your TV room since the last thing you want is harsh lighting from the ceiling lights and the television flooding your eyes.

On the other hand, your kitchen will need the opposite. If your kitchen is where you prepare your food, you will need all the light you can get.

In addition to considering where your lights will be put, consider what mood you want to create as well as what purpose you want them to serve.

 

Tip #3: Consider Kelvin, watts, and lumen

Following up on Tip #2, familiarizing yourself with lighting technicalities can help you address your needs more effectively.

Knowing the difference between Kelvin, watts, and lumen can be helpful here. Why?

The Watts of your bulb is a measure of how much energy it consumes, the Lumens describe how bright your bulb will be, and the Kelvin indicates the color of your bulb.

Is a warm, cozy atmosphere or a highly illuminated space more appealing to you? No matter what your answer is, Kelvin, watts, and lumen all play an important role in helping you find the right light bulb that will suit your needs.

 

Tip #4: Opt for dimmable options

You can dim LED light bulbs to give you more control over every room in your home.

Of course, this is more of a luxury than a necessity. It does, however, help you design the space you want, based on your mood.

As a result, if you can afford it, it is recommended that you use dimmable LED lights.

It is important to note that not all LED bulbs are dimmable, so ensure you buy one that offers this feature. If you do not do this, you will end up with lights that constantly flicker every time you use the dimming switch.

 

And that’s a wrap!

These four tips should be helpful in your search for the right light bulb for your space.

As simple as breathing, it is very easy to make the mistake of choosing the wrong light bulb. That is why it is beneficial to stay informed and make sure you get your money’s worth!