LED Bulbs

How To Choose The Right LED Bulbs For Your Home

LED BulbsLED bulbs are energy efficient, long-lasting, and eco-friendly. On average, an LED bulb can last up to 20,000 hours. Still more, these bulbs can save you up to 80 percent of energy. So, if you are still using the traditional, incandescent bulbs, it’s time to make the switch. However, with so many bulbs on the market, choosing the right bulb can be challenging. Luckily, the following guide will take you through the steps you need to purchase authentic LED bulbs.

LED Bulbs: Shapes, Sizes

LED bulbs are classified into four primary categories. They include:

  • A-shape
  • Reflectors
  • Decorative
  • Specialty

A-shape LEDs, which are the most frequently used in homes, are ideal for modern homes and other spaces. On the other hand, reflectors are the floor and spotlights. They are usually used in outdoor lighting. Comical in shape, these bulbs tend to cast more defined beams. Decorative LEDs represent a stunning addition to a myriad of lighting fixtures, including wall sconces and chandeliers. In most cases, these lighting fixtures are smaller but can be available in vintage-style shapes. They are used for home décor.

Choosing LED Bulbs: Consider Wattage

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LEDs consume 75 percent less energy that incandescent bulbs. On average, a LED bulb can consume about 10 watts and compared to 60 watts for incandescent to produce the same amount of light. This makes them cost effective for any home.

When choosing LED bulbs, check the wattage. To save money, choose an LED bulb that consumes less energy to produce a high amount of brightness. Familiarize yourself with lumens and wattage. Usually, the efficiency of a bulb is measured based on lumens per watt. This represents the number of watts a bulb consumes to produce one lumen of light.

On average, incandescent bulbs come with an efficiency of 15 lumens/watt. On the other hand, LEDs can produce between 75 to 100 lumen/watt. This makes LEDs six times more efficient than their incandescent counterparts.

Colot Temperature

LED BulbsColor temperature is also another important factor to consider. The best thing about LEDs is that they come with diverse capabilities. This includes customizable tones. By definition, tones refer to the color quality of any light produced by a lighting bulb.

Measured in Kelvin(K), color temperature determines the coziness of a space. Warm light, which falls between 1000 t 4000K, is referred to as lower Kelvin. On the other hand, Higher Kelvin light has a blue quality (over 7000K). Neutral tone ranges between 4000 and 7000k.

Choose warmer tones in spaces that require relaxation. This tone helps set the right tone and create that cozy mood. For utility rooms such as the kitchen and bathrooms, opt for a cooler, cleaner tone to achieve that cozy mood.

LED Bulb Dimming Compatibility

Consider LEDs that are compatible with dimmer switches. Remember, not all LEDs can be dimmed.  Thus, check the specifications and ensure that your LED bub is compatible with a dimmer switch. This information is usually found on the manufacturer’s spec sheet. Dimmer switches allow you to control brightness to suit a particular mood or time of the day.

LED Retrofitting

LED retrofitting refers to the ability to convert your existing lighting fixture to accommodate LEDs. In most cases, this is practiced with LED-based tube lights, LED strips, and shop lighting fixtures. LED retrofitting saves energy and money. It also improves lighting quality and optimizes your environmental safety. However, it’s important to note that retrofitting doesn’t always work with all lighting fixtures. Still more, it is limited—preventing you from utilizing dimmer switches. That’s why you should always consult an expert before embarking on the retrofitting process.

Lifespan

Consider the lifespan of your LED bulbs. Choose long-lasting bulbs. Opt for bulbs that can last for up to 50,000 hours. Go for ENERGY STAY-marked LED bulbs. These bulbs are certified, can use less energy, and save you money. They also reduce your overall carbon footprint, which saves the environment.

The Bottom-Line

Switching to LED LightsThe LED technology is one of the biggest breakthroughs in the lighting industry. Designed to last longer, LEDs can also save you up to 80 percent of energy. Still more, they don’t contain any mercury, making them eco-friendly to the environment. That’s why it’s advisable to replace incandescent bulbs with LEDs. However, it’s important to choose wisely. Consider factors like wattage and color temperature. Also, opt for dimmable LEDs for more control. Choose your LED bulbs from a reputable manufacturer. The above guide contains practical tips and tricks for choosing the right LED bulbs.

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