How to Choose Light Bulbs

Homeowners often invest a lot of time and money into their lighting systems. Maximize the effect of your lamps and light fixtures by choosing the right bulbs. At Mr. Electric of Atlanta, Georgia, we provide high quality residential and commercial electrical services including bulb changes, lighting system installation, light fixture repair and replacement, smart light integration and more. Are you looking for ways to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of your indoor and outdoor lights? Here are a few tips for choosing the best light bulbs for your unique needs. 

Brightness 

Always check the specific details of your light bulbs before making a purchase. Look for the appropriate number of watts and color temperature to ensure that you are getting your preferred effect from your light fixtures. Incandescent bulbs generally range from 40 to 100 watts. LED lights use Kelvins to measure the color temperature of the bulb, most often ranging from 2700K to 5000K. In both circumstances, lower numbers indicate a darker tone, while a higher number will provide brighter lighting. 

Light Bulb Type

The next choice to make is what kind of light bulb you prefer. In the past, incandescent bulbs were the only options. Now, CFL bulbs and LED lights are also available. Incandescent bulbs are the most economic choice, though their energy consumption may result in more expensive utility costs long term. Compact florescent light bulbs are frequently used in place of traditional fluorescent tube lights, but be cautious about proper disposal, since these bulbs contain a small amount of mercury. LED lights require a higher up-front cost, but the prices of LED bulbs have dropped significantly over the last decade. They also last six times longer than conventional incandescent bulbs and are much more energy efficient. 

Location

The area where your light fixture is located will also be a major factor when choosing a light bulb. For instance, a bright light is often preferred in kitchens and home offices. On the other hand, lower lighting may be preferred in a dining space or living rooms. Some areas may have unique needs, such as bulbs used for a heat lamp in the bathroom. Dimmable lights might be a great option for those who want to change their lighting with ease. Many families are also choosing to use smart bulbs in high traffic areas, since they can be controlled remotely via phone or tablet.  

Do You Need Professional Lighting Installation or Maintenance Services? Give Us a Call

Are you ready to get the most from your home’s lighting system? Whether you need to replace your old bulbs with energy efficient LEDs, or you need a completely new smart lighting system installation, our team of certified, licensed and insured electricians in Atlanta are always available to help make your home improvement project a success. Contact our office for more information about our residential and commercial electrical services or to schedule an appointment with a local electrician in Atlanta, Suwanee, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Buckhead, Alpharetta, Marietta, Stone Mountain, Georgia or another surrounding metro area community.