Lighting is responsible for approximately 15% of the energy you consume in your home. You can manage your electricity bills by switching from inefficient light bulbs to energy-saving options. In this article, we explore energy-efficient lighting options and factors to consider when choosing a light bulb.
What to Consider When Choosing a Light Bulb
A light bulb is a simple device, but choosing one can be complicated and even confusing. There are many options to choose from and specs to consider, including everything from color temperature to lumens, watts, and the color rendering index.
The main terms you need to understand are watts and lumens. Watts represents the energy the light bulb consumes, while lumens are a measure of brightness. An energy-efficient lamp produces more lumens for the same wattage used by conventional bulbs. For example, LEDs typically produce 60 lumens per watt.
Color temperature describes the appearance of the light bulb when you look at it directly. With a color temperature of 2700K, the light can invoke a warm, cozy ambiance. At higher color temperatures, there is less yellow and more blue light.
The color temperature you choose will depend on the intended space and the mood you are trying to invoke. For office spaces, experts recommend a color temperature of 3000K to 4000K. Lower values are suitable for dining and entertainment areas. Higher values beyond 5000K create alertness and are ideal for hospitals and healthcare settings.
Another important consideration is the shape and base of the bulb. These factors determine if the bulb will fit into your lighting fixtures. You can choose between a screw or a pin base. They can also be in spiral, reflector, or globe shapes. If your lighting fixtures are faulty, you can consult Peterman Brothers in Indianapolis.
4 Common Types of Light Bulbs
When shopping for bulbs, there are four options to choose from: incandescent, halogen, fluorescent, and LED. Incandescent lamps are the oldest technology used for lighting and the most effective option. However, they are also the least energy-efficient of the four.
Incandescent bulbs have a filament encased in a glass globe. The filament glows whenever the current passes through it. Manufacturers sometimes fill the glass sphere with nitrogen to make the light glow brighter.
Nonetheless, an incandescent bulb typically produces 10 to 14 watts per lumen, four times lower than an LED. Filament lamps have a color temperature of about 2,700K, and they generate a lot of heat in the process. The filament in a typical incandescent bulb can generate up to 4000 degrees Fahrenheit, with 90% of the energy lost as heat.
Halogen lamps work in the same way as incandescent lamps. The difference is that there is an extra layer of encasement for the filament. The outer glass holds the inert gasses, which does not make it as hot to the touch as incandescent lamps. The internal temperature can get to 2500 degrees Fahrenheit.
The advantage of halogen bulbs is that they do not release as much heat as incandescent bulbs. High temperatures can interfere with interior air conditioning. In terms of energy efficiency, however, halogen bulbs are only marginally better than filament lamps. They can yield between 15 and 25 lumens per watt.
If you want a bulb that does not interfere with interior temperatures, you can choose fluorescent or LED lights. They also come in several shapes and bases. The most common type of fluorescent light is the elongated tube that comes with a starter switch.
The problem with the long, slender tubes is that you have to reconfigure your current lighting fixture. Fortunately, compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) are designed with the same base as a halogen or incandescent light.
CFLs are more energy efficient than filament or halogen bulbs. They produce between 30 and 60 lumens for every watt. CFLs can last for up to 10,000 hours compared to conventional light bulbs.
In recent years, LED has become a popular choice for people looking for energy-efficient light bulbs. The technology employs a diode that emits light when the current passes through it. Because only a small current is required, it consumes very little electrical power.
Should You Opt for LED Light Bulbs?
LED lights have many advantages that make them suitable for a wide range of applications. They are energy efficient, have a long lifespan, and are among the most versatile forms of lighting. Even though they produce more lumens per watt than other options, they do not generate considerable heat.
LEDs are more robust than CFLs or incandescent bulbs. LEDs are less susceptible to damage and can last up to 50,000 hours. Most lamps consist of minute LEDs that can take many shapes and designs. You can find a 60-watt incandescent replacement that fits your lighting fixtures.
Color Rendering Index and LEDs
The color rendering index (CRI) of a lamp describes its ability to bring out the different colors of an object. The index has values of up to 100, which compares its illumination to natural light. Bulbs with an index of 90 have a quality that is closer to that of daylight.
The CRI of a bulb is critical for applications that require an accurate display of colors. If you are a painter or artist, you may want to replace your incandescent bulb with a higher CRI lamp. These are also sought after by spray booths and product displays.
A lamp with a CRI of between 80 and 89 is considered ideal for virtually all tasks. LED bulbs have a CRI of 80 and above, but some can be up to 98 CRI. If you need assistance choosing a suitable replacement lamp, you can consult Peterman Brothers in Indianapolis.
Applications of LED Light Bulbs
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LEDs last up to 25 times longer and consume 95% less energy than conventional bulbs. For those reasons, they are great for providing efficient indoor and outdoor lighting solutions.
Greenhouse owners looking for the most energy-efficient light bulbs should consider LEDs. Plants require high-intensity lights with over 4000K for healthy growth. Given that the bulb will be on for at least 12 hours a day, the energy costs can add up quickly.
There is also a lower risk that the lights would scorch your plants with heat. Although you may need to install a fan to keep the lamp cool, the energy savings can cover the extra expenses. LEDs are the best choice as they can last up to 50,000 hours of constant use.
The versatility of LED has made them suitable for strip lights, dimmer lights, and a wide range of decorative lighting. Manufacturers have created many designs to complement modern interiors.
For example, the Edison Bulb is designed like the vintage incandescent lights popular in the early 20th century. With LEDs, you have many options for replacing your incandescent bulb. You can choose pendant lights, tri-color, bi-color, and ceiling lights, among other options.
When you need assistance with electrical upgrades or indoor and outdoor lighting, you can depend on Peterman Brothers in Indianapolis. We provide rewiring, panel replacements, ceiling fan installation, backup generators, and other services. Our 24/7 emergency repair team is always ready when you call. Our licensed and highly qualified electricians can provide custom solutions to fit the needs of your home. You can contact Peterman Brothers today for a 100% satisfaction guarantee and special discounts for our clients.