How to Choose the Right Light?

[isabelle manneh]

Choose the right light for the right place: replace your old light bulbs with Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs. About a quarter of the energy needed for our homes goes toward keeping on the lights.

According to the Energy Star, a joint project of the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy, if every U.S. household replaced one traditional lightbulb with an energy-efficient compact fluorescent lamp (CFL), $600 million in utility bills is saved and there will be enough energy to light 3 million homes each year. CFLs cost more, but they use nearly 75% less energy and last about 10 times longer than incandescent lightbulbs. That adds up to about $30 of savings over the life of each bulb.

Matching the right CFL to the right kind of fixture helps ensure that it will perform properly and last a long time.

For example:
-CFLs perform best in open fixtures that allow airflow, such as table and floor lamps, wall sconces, pendants, and outdoor fixtures.
-For recessed fixtures, it is better to use a reflector CFL than a spiral CFL since the design of the reflector evenly distributes the light down to your task area.
-If a light fixture is connected to a dimmer or three-way socket fixture, you'll need to use a special ENERGY STAR qualified CFL designed to work in these applications. Make sure to look for CFLs that specify use with dimmers or three-way fixtures.
-Choose a qualified CFL that offers a shade of white light that works best for you. For example, while most CFLs provide warm or soft white light for your home, you could choose a cooler color for task lighting.
-To choose the ENERGY STAR qualified CFL with the right amount of light, find a qualified CFL that is labeled as equivalent to the incandescent bulb you are replacing. Light bulb manufacturers include this information right on the product packaging to make it easy for consumers to choose the equivalent bulb. Common terms include "Soft White 60" or "60 Watt Replacement."
-You should also check the lumen rating to find the right CFL. The higher the lumen rating, the greater the light output. Consult the following chart to determine what CFL wattage is best to replace your incandescent light bulb:

Source: Energy Star Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs