Here’s How to Find the Right Light Bulb

Light Bulb Types

Light bulbs can vary by quality of light, energy efficiency, cost and bulb life. They also come in different standard sizes, so check the size of the bulb you’re replacing. Here are the most common types of light bulbs and their recommended uses.

Wattage, Lumens & Kelvins

Wattage, lumens and kelvins are indicators of a light bulb’s power and intensity. Understanding these factors will help ensure you pick the right bulb for your needs.

Wattage

Wattage refers to the amount of energy a light bulb consumes. In general, the lower the wattage number, the lower your electricity bill will be.

Lumens

Lumens refer to the amount of light a bulb emits. The higher the lumen rating, the brighter the light. When choosing, consider: room size and purpose, wall colour and your preferred ambiance (i.e. bright and energetic, versus subdued and intimate).

Kelvins

Light bulbs produce either a cool light with blue tones or a warm light with yellow tones. A higher kelvin number indicates a cooler light, while a lower number indicates a warm tone. Cool light is great for task lighting, while warm light creates a welcoming mood.

Light Bulb, Meet Room

Different rooms have different lighting needs. Bright lighting for tasks like reading and working wouldn’t work in a room where you want to relax or entertain guests. Read on for pointers on matching the right light bulb to every room in your home.

Kitchen

Kitchens are used for everything from meal prep to study sessions and require 5,000 to 10,000 lumens. Look for a bright, cool light with a 4,100 kelvin rating.

Dining Room

Dining rooms are social spaces where mood is key. Aim for 3,000 to 6,000 lumens, in a dimmable bulb, so you can adjust the ambiance as needed.

Bathroom

Bright lighting is key when shaving or applying makeup. Consider light bulbs that emulate daylight at 5,000 to 8,000 kelvins.

Living Room

Living rooms require 1,500 to 3,000 lumens. A soft white light bulb helps create warmth and a cozy feel. Look for bulbs around 2,700 kelvins for that effect.

Bedroom

Bedrooms are used for relaxing, so bulbs in the 2,700 kelvin range, with 2,000 to 4,000 lumens are ideal. If you use a reading light, choose a bright white bulb.

Outdoor

Cool white bulbs work best for security lights, while a warm bulb within a lower kelvin range can add ambiance to your deck or highlight your landscaping.