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From energy-efficient LEDs to colorful smart bulbs, we have you covered.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
When you considerhow to light a room, you probably focus on the light fixtures.
Turns out, the bulbs themselves are just as important, as they candrastically change the moodin a space.
Dan Mock, vice president of operations at Mister Sparky, recommends opting for LED bulbs.
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For smart light bulbs, think about whatsmart home applicationsyoull want the bulbs to work with.
They cost about $5 a bulb.
Artists and designers rave about the color reproduction, comparing them to bulbs costing four times as much.
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The bulbs are approved for indoor and outdoor use, so you canput them in exterior fixtures, too.
They are Energy Star certified, which means they have passed strict government tests regarding efficiency.
Philips is also moving toward plastic-free packaging, opting instead for packages using some recycled paper.
Credit: Ring
Our only quibble with these bulbs is the costabout $5 per bulb.
We think most people can happily swap out all other bulbs around the house with these.
They may start to flicker after extended use.
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LED lights offer the most bang for your buck and are the most efficient,energy-saving option.
The bulb is also designed for damp environments, so its suitable as lighting for bathrooms and basements.
Some users have also reported the bulbs flickering after extended use.
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They are expensive if youre not planning to fully use the smart features.
To do so, you’d need a Ring Bridge.
The bulbs also allow you to set schedules for the light to go on via the Ring app.
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The dimmable bulbs are not as long-lasting as other types.
If you dont pair these with a dimmer, we suggest getting non-dimmable bulbs.
Incandescent bulbs dont last nearly as long as LEDs, and they can heat up.
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The result is more vibrant hues, better contrast, and less eye strain.
Users appreciate the clean, balanced light for reading, sewing, and other eye-straining tasks.
Its also available with clear glass, which is slightly brighter, or frosted.
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This bulb shouldnt be used as an outdoor light.
Its compact, twisty design is a good fit forsmall light fixturessuch as table lamps andwall sconces.
Note that its not suitable for outside useyoull have to look elsewhere for thebest outdoor lighting.
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Packs of one, four, or six are available.
They dont qualify for shipment to California.
For lights that turn on automatically, you usually need to have an appropriate fixture with a motion sensor.
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Not so with theLepro Dusk to Dawn Light Bulbs.
Each bulb offers up to 15,000 hours of runtime.
The bulbs are also moisture-proof and are offered in two color temperatures, daylight white and warm white.
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The only downsides are that theyre not dimmable and dont qualify for shipment to California.
Despite the brands name being Ecosmart, these are not smart bulbs.
TheEcosmart LED Bulbsare the equivalent of a 60-watt incandescent and offer a soft white light that is impressively bright.
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They come in an eight-pack, meaning youll likely have some spares.
Just keep in mind that, despite the brands name being Ecosmart, these are not smart bulbs.
Although theyre UL listed, they cant be shipped to California.
Credit: Amazon
Though theyre UL-listed, they cant be shipped to California.
Theyre available in three color temperatures: soft white, cool white, and daylight.
The manufacturer is a small business based in the USA and provides a two-year warranty for these light bulbs.
They are not dimmable (which is an extra downside in a bedroom).
you could also use them inside a covered outdoor light fixture.
The distinctive design is not as versatile.
While a vintage style is not for everyone, it can work magic in the right space.
It radiates 700 lumens and comes in daylight white and warm white tones.
It may not be bright enough as a main light.
It features 16 million color options you might choose from, via a color wheel on Govees mobile app.
you’re free to use the app to control multiple bulbs.
They’re expensive to run since theyll be on for more hours than the average light bulb.
To help your indoor plants thrive, both during photosynthesis and growth, agrow lightis a must.
However, since these are LEDs, theyre still much more economical than other types of bulbs.
Its meant to be comforting to your eyes and wont flicker, buzz, or glare.
Use it indoors or out and in nearly any key in of fixture.
Lumens
Lumens are one of the best ways to compare bulb brightness.
The most common colors are cool or warm whites.
Whatever color you opt for basically comes down to your personal preference.
Color temperature is related to function, and then mood, in that order.
It is common to see cool white bulbs in the 5000 to 6000 Kelvin range.
Shape Code
The shape of a bulb is indicated by a code.
A candelabra will have a smaller screw-in base with the code E12.
Your average twist-and-lock base bulb has the code GU10.
If youre looking for maximum energy savings, LEDs are the one to get.
They are more energy-efficient than fluorescent or incandescent bulbs, and can significantly reduce your monthly bill.
Fluorescent bulbs are a popular choice in commercial controls, but are also used byhomeowners in basementsor garages.
They are brighter than incandescents and are good for task lighting.
They are more energy-efficient than incandescent light bulbs, but not as energy-efficient as LEDs.
They produce light by heating a metal filament until it glows.
you’ve got the option to usually automate the functions so the bulbs operate on a schedule.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the lifespan of a light bulb?
The lifespan of a light bulb is estimated in hours.
Some LEDs can even reach 50,000 hours, lasting for years and years.
Incandescent bulbs typically have the shortest life expectancy, clocking in at approximately 1,000 hours.
Smart bulbs are typically of the LED variety and last much longer than other light bulb technologies.
What are the most efficient light bulbs on the market?
LED bulbs are the most energy-efficient option available, with compact fluorescents coming in second.
Also consider whether a bulb is Energy Star certified.
What wattage is best for bedroom lighting?
How do you choose between warm or cool white light?
Depending on your lighting preferences, you might find bulbs in warm or cool tones.
These are the lights you want to install in rooms where you plan on kicking back and relaxing.
We recommend this color light for the bedroom, den, or living room.
Kat is also the editor-at-large at Thomas-Xometry, the leading U.S. online platform for supplier discovery and product sourcing.
