A Guide to Choosing the Right Types of Lightbulbs | Teems Electric

Lighting plays a big role in our day-to-day lives, and choosing the right type of lighting can completely transform the way a room feels. However, when faced with the light bulb selection at the hardware store, it can be extremely overwhelming!

Between varying sizes, wattages, color profiles and energy efficiency rating, there is a lot that goes into the decision of choosing lighting for your home.

While you may know that LED bulbs are the most efficient option for your home by far, even if you narrow it down to only LED bulbs, there are still plenty of options to choose from. Below, we will look at all the specs you may see on a lightbulb box so you can be sure you are choosing the right option for your home.

What Is Wattage?

Wattage refers to the amount of energy that is required to power a lightbulb. Lower wattage bulbs are more energy-efficient, but they also tend to not be as bright.

While typically brighter, the cost of running a high wattage bulb can outweigh the benefits. Your light fixture should say what wattage bulbs it requires—but the good news is that LED bulbs are compatible with any fixture, no matter the wattage listed.

What Are Lumens?

Lumens refer to the amount of light a bulb puts off as it runs. A standard 100-watt bulb will be rated at around 1600 lumens, for reference, but the lumens of each bulb can vary and should be indicated on the package.

When choosing a bulb, a good rule of thumb is to choose one that produces 20 lumens for every square foot of space in your home—so if you are lighting a 20-square-foot room, you will want a bulb that is at least 400 lumens.

What Are Color Temperatures?

Lightbulbs come in a few different, standardized color temperatures: soft white, warm white, bright white and daylight. Soft white errs toward the tone of yellow, is the most common temperature and is perfect for most living spaces.

Warm white and bright white are typically found in kitchens, bathrooms and workspaces, and daylight is good for anywhere you would like to be super bright.

Need help picking out the right lighting for your home? That is what we are here for! Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive lighting services.