Light-emitting diodes, more commonly referred to as just LEDs, are a popular lighting option for both interior and exterior spaces. This type of light offers several benefits to users including a long life, low cost, and various features and options to choose from.
While some may believe selecting a light bulb is no big deal and that they are all the same, this is simply not the case when trying to choose a LED lamp for outdoor use. In order to make the best selection possible, it is a good idea to abide by a few, helpful guidelines.
Lumens, not Watts
When you begin shopping for bulbs, you are likely going to look for watts, which is an indication of how bright your bulb will be. However, the brightness of LEDs is determined a bit differently. Contrary to what you have been told, wattage does not indicate brightness. Instead, it is a measurement of the amount of energy the bulb draws. While watts are ideal for determining the brightness of incandescent bulbs, the same is not true for LEDs.
For example, LED bulbs that have a comparable brightness to a 60-watt incandescent bulb is only going to have eight to 12 watts. However, don’t try to figure out the difference. There is no universal way to convert incandescent watts into LED watts. A better option is to use a different measurement – lumens.
The lumen provides an accurate measurement of the brightness created by a LED bulb. This is what you need to look for. For example, 200 lm is equivalent to a 60W incandescent bulb, or an eight to 12 watt LED.
Selecting the Right LED Bulb Color
The most popular colors for LEDs include bright white, soft white, or warm white. The warm and soft white options create a yellow hue, similar to incandescent bulbs, while bright white bulbs will create an effect similar to daylight. Think about where you are using the bulb to determine the color you want. For example, for outdoor floodlights, you will likely want a bright white, while a warm or soft white bulb is best for a patio or outdoor living area.
LED Bulbs are More Expensive
Modern LED bulbs are similar to hybrid cars – they are more affordable to operate, but cost more upfront. If you are ready to make the switch to all LED bulbs for your outdoor space, you won’t save money right away. However, this is a long-term investment that will help you save money over time.
LED bulbs are becoming the new norm for outdoor lighting. They don’t heat up like traditional bulbs, making them safer to use around plants and foliage. They are also much brighter and last longer. If you are thinking about making this change, contact The IDL Company to learn more. They can help you make an educated decision regarding the bulbs you use for your outdoor space.
