Knowledge is power: Light bulb buyer’s guide

Ever been surprised when you flip the switch the first time after installing a new light bulb? Like when you were expecting a warm, soft, cozy glow only to be blasted with a bright, blueish-white spotlight?

Choosing a light bulb might seem simple, but the wrong one can affect your energy bill, the mood of a room or even your eye comfort. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the right bulb.

LIGHT OUTPUT (BRIGHTNESS) | Look for lumens, not watts. Watts measure energy use; lumens measure brightness. For example, a 60-watt incandescent bulb gives off about 800 lumens. If you want the same brightness in an LED, look for one that provides 800 lumens but only uses about 9 to 12 watts.

COLOR TEMPERATURE | Measured in Kelvins (K), color temperature measures the warmth or coolness of light. Warm white (2700K–3000K) is cozy and ideal for bedrooms and living rooms. Cool white (3500K–4100K) works well in kitchens and workspaces, while daylight (5000K–6500K) is great for task lighting or reading.

BASE STYLE  | Check the fixture before buying. The most common base is the medium screw base (E26), but some lamps or specialty lights require smaller or pin-type bases.

DIMMABILITY  | Not all bulbs are dimmable. If you use dimmer switches, look for bulbs clearly labeled dimmable and make sure your dimmer is compatible with LED or CFL technology.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND LIFESPAN | LED bulbs cost more upfront but use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last 10 to 25 years. Always check the Lighting Facts label for energy use, brightness and lifespan.