How to Choose a Light Bulb

Incandescent bulbs have largely been phased out in the last 10 years, and only last about a year of regular use. Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs, or CFL’s, last about 9 years, but they too have begun to be phased out. LED technology is continually becoming cheaper. And although LED bulbs are likely more expensive up front than CFLs, they’re typically the most cost-effective bulb in the long run. The reason they’re cheaper in the long run is because they emit more lumens while using less watts, keeping your power bill low.

First, determine the size of the socket on the fixture. If you’re replacing an old bulb, it’s best practice to take the bulb with you to the store.

Check the wattage rating on the fixture you’re installing the bulb into. The rating is usually noted on a sticker on the fixture. Contrary to popular belief, the brightness of the bulb is NOT measured in watts. 

The brightness of a bulb is actually rated in LUMENS. Most interior bulbs range from around 400 to 2000 lumens. 

The last option is color temperature. Color temperature is measured in degrees Kelvin (K), and is typically marked on a scale on the bulb’s packaging.  The lower the Kelvin temperature, the warmer or yellower the light. The higher the rating, the cooler or more blue the light appears.