We all want to save money. When we do, and it helps the planet at the same time, it’s a win-win. Energy-efficiency lighting can lower utility bills and reduce the burden on nonrenewable sources. When the incandescent light bulbs you’re using burn out, consider buying LED bulbs instead. LEDs have a lifespan of 20 some years and are also very cost-effective, making the switch a smart choice. They have gotten better over the years as they have mastered providing us with the warm light incandescent that have been a comfort to us for decades. Picking the right one might leave you confused because there are so many varieties. Figure out what you need to know before you head to store to save yourself some confusion.

You Need to Look at LED Lumens, Not Watts

Shopping for incandescent light bulbs has you looking at watts. Watts let you know how bright the bulb will be. LEDs are determined a little differently as far as brightness goes. The misconception with wattage is that it’s an indication of how bright the bulb will be, but it actually measures the amount of energy the bulb draws. That means that with incandescent there’s a correlation between the watts drawn and how bright it will be. When it comes to LEDs, you can’t predict the brightness with watts because they draw less energy—one of the benefits. For example, an LED bulb with comparable brightness to a 75W incandescent is only 9 to 13 watts. The conversions aren’t uniform in converting incandescent to LED watts. So, the measurement is done in lumens. With the example of a 75W incandescent, it will have a measurement of 1100 lm. An incandescent can draw up to five times as many watts for the same number of lumens, so you will need to get an idea of the brightness you need in lumens before you head to the store.

LED Color Temperature for Home

Incandescent bulbs provide a warm, yellowish hue. But LEDs come in a range of colors-another benefit. From purple to red, to a range of whites and yellows. You will most likely want the look that incandescent provide, making “warm white” or “soft white” and “bright white” popular choices in LEDs. Warm white and soft white will resemble the light provided by incandescent, while bright white will provide a whiter light, more like daylight and what you see in retail stores.

LED Lights Save

LEDs are like hybrid cars in that they will cost more upfront but will save you money when you use them. Buying LEDs is making an investment in the future. Prices have come down as there is more competition but expect to pay more than you did on those incandescent bulbs. LEDs will pay off in the long run, all while you enjoy less heat production and longer lasting bulbs. Keep in mind, you will need to change out many if not all the incandescent in you home with LEDs to see significant savings on your electricity bill.

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