How to Compare Light Bulbs

Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and light emitting diodes (LEDs) have become increasingly common lighting options, replacing traditional incandescent bulbs in many homes. CFLs use mercury to emit light rather than the tungsten filament used in incandescent bulbs. LEDs use semi-conductors and have no moving parts, making them very reliable. When comparing bulbs, look at the light output, energy usage, lifespan, color and cost. Here are some instructions:

1. • 1
     Compare the light output of the light bulbs, usually measured in lumens. You can estimate the number of lumens your bulb needs by estimating the number of lumens your room needs based on the size of the room, the use of the room and how many bulbs will light the room.
   • 2
     Compare the energy usage, usually measured in watts. Before CFLs and LEDs, watts were a fairly good indicator of how bright a light would be because all bulbs were about equally efficient. Because CFLs and LEDs are much more efficient, however, it is no longer an effective comparison of light output. Instead chose a bulb that uses the least amount of energy to produce the amount of light you need.
   • 3
     Compare the lifespan of the bulbs, which is measured in hours. LEDs have the longest lifespan followed by CFLs. According to the Department of Energy, CFLs last about 10 times as long as incandescent bulbs and LEDs last about 25 times as long.
   • 4
     Compare the color of the lights. LED bulbs are not as proficient as CFLs or incandescent bulbs are at producing a warm white light.
   • 5
     Compare the cost of the light bulbs. Even though CFLs may be more expensive to buy, the U.S. Department of Energy claims that they can save money over incandescent bulbs because they use less energy.

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