The average household has 67 lights of different sizes, shapes, colors, and uses. This makes choosing light bulbs a complicated process. It’s also why many frustrated homeowners end up selecting the wrong kind of bulb.
Instead of returning the mismatched bulb, they either put it in a drawer to hopefully use ‘one day,’ or it gets disposed of. Either way, this is a waste of time and money.
In this article, we discuss how to choose between the different types of light bulbs. We’ll also cover the importance of comparing light bulb costs and light bulb shapes. Continue reading to keep your light bulb selection process simple.
1. Light Bulb Needs
When it comes to choosing light bulbs, it’s important to take a moment to consider what your light bulb needs are. This should occur before even considering the different types of light bulbs.
For example, if your porch light needs a replacement light bulb, your needs are going to be very different from a new heat lamp bulb for your bathroom. The function of the bulb is the first factor you need to consider.
Once you’ve taken the time to think about what the light bulb’s purpose is, you can start thinking about what you want from it. Then, you can continue on with your process of choosing light bulbs.
2. Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient light bulbs are becoming increasingly common, but it’s important to consider whether they’re the right fit for your needs. While energy-efficient light bulbs tend to cost more upfront, they provide many benefits.
Energy-efficient light bulbs help you save money on your energy bill. This is because they are able to provide light more efficiently than other types of bulbs.
This is especially ideal for lights that are on frequently. For example, a kitchen light or outdoor light would do well with these types of bulbs.
3. Voltage
When choosing light bulbs, make sure to check the required voltage of the fixture before making your final purchase. It’s important for the lifespan of your light bulb to match these up correctly.
A light bulb with a voltage that’s too high will leave you having to replace your light bulbs more frequently. A light bulb with too low a voltage will raise your energy bill as it draws more electrical current.
The right light bulb for the fixture will match its voltage. This will help you get the longest lifespan from the light bulb without drawing excess power.
4. Color Temperature
When choosing your light bulb provider, be sure to factor in your desired color temperature. This is a measure of temperature in Kelvin (K). It refers to the hue of light produced by a light bulb.
For example, the types of light bulbs with a lower temperature tend to offer warmer and softer hues of white. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the hues are more akin to natural light as you can see in this Philips Hue light guide.
These different types of light bulbs are best in different spaces. A bright white-hued light bulb is often found in commercial settings such as restaurants. However, personal preference is also a factor to consider.
5. Light Bulb Shapes
There is a variety of light bulb shapes to choose from in order to fit a variety of fixtures. In order to be sure you make the right selection among the different light bulb shapes, pay attention to bulb shape and the size of the base.
The base size is listed in millimeters on the fixture itself. The light bulb shape is more complicated.
To select the right shape, you have to consider the size of the fixture. This helps ensure a good physical fit. However, you can also take your own personal taste into consideration as some shapes are purely decorative.
6. Light Bulb Costs
Comparing light bulb costs means more than the price difference between light bulb providers. Some types of light bulbs such as LEDs and UVCs are harsher for your budget.
However, many of these offer significant benefits over cheaper options. We discussed how energy-efficient light bulbs can help save, but the same can be said for other types.
Just because a bulb has a higher sticker price, it doesn’t mean it doesn’t pay for itself in other ways. For example, some bulbs that cost more are built better and tend to last longer. This means fewer purchases in the long run.
Take a minute to consider your budget when choosing light bulbs. Then, look for the best bulb based on your budget.
7. Other Features
While finding the right fit and style for your light bulb is important, other features are worth considering as well. Ongoing advances in technology create fun adaptations to the ways in which light bulbs function.
Today, you can enjoy light bulbs that dim with an adjustable switch. These are great for dining areas or even nurseries.
You can also choose light bulbs that pair with ‘smart’ devices, called smart light bulbs. These can be turned off with a simple verbal command saving you the time and energy required to walk across the room.
Magnetic levitating moon lamp is a great way to add some fun to a certain space. Magnetic moon lamps can create a fun atmosphere in children’s rooms or for certain events.
Get to Choosing Light Bulbs
Choosing light bulbs is easy if you take the time to figure out exactly what you want and need. Consider the purpose, the types of light bulbs, and the desired effect before looking into the specifics. Then, you can have fun with your selection.
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