Best Light Bulbs

Best Light Bulbs: Light Bulbs: What to Look For

When choosing between incandescent bulbs and compact fluorescent bulbs for your home lighting needs, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. While it is true that compact fluorescent bulbs are overall more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs are, they are also more expensive; whether or not their initial cost is balanced out by their overall savings depends upon how long each individual bulb lasts.

The lifetime expectancies printed on bulb packaging are averages only, and even then only apply under ideal conditions. Many consumers have complained that compact fluorescent light bulbs rarely last as long as they’re supposed to. However, since incandescent bulbs are rated for about 1,000 hours and compact fluorescent bulbs are rated for about 10,000 hours, even compact fluorescent bulbs which last only half of their expected life span are more energy-efficient (and thus cost-effective) in the long-term than incandescent bulbs are. Since compact fluorescent light bulbs have come down significantly in price over the past few years, it is likely – though not guaranteed – that using these bulbs will save you money.

To ensure the maximum efficiency of compact fluorescent bulbs (and thus save the most money), it is important to use them in the proper light fixtures, keep them on for at least fifteen minutes at a time, and to exchange any defective bulbs without paying return shipping. It is also worth remembering that these bulbs will be mandatorily phased out in 2012, so take that into consideration when replacing your incandescent lighting.

When shopping for compact fluorescent bulbs, be sure to pay attention to the color temperature. With the exception of halogen bulbs, each type of light bulb is available in various color temperatures, usually measured in degrees Kelvin. Lighting options generally range between a warm 2,700K to a bluish-white 5,000K.

When considering various bulb options, pay attention to lumens, not wattage. Lumen measures overall light output, which is what you really need to consider when purchasing a bulb.

Finally, consider the warranty. Warranties can vary between stores and manufactures, so be sure to read the labels before purchasing.