Seven Steps to Choosing a LED

How bright do you want your bulb?
Ultimately, your LED choice will depend on how bright you want your light to shine. Rather than look at wattage, evaluate lumens as this is a more accurate indicator for LEDs. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light.

What colour do you prefer?
Today, LEDs are available in a variety of different colour temperatures. As a rule of thumb, cooler bulbs keep things crisp, clean and alert, making them ideal for offices, bathrooms, laundries and commercial applications. In comparison, warmer tones are better for living areas, bars, restaurants and other atmospheric spaces.

What’s your bulb being used for?
Light quality is measured by the Colour Rendering Index (CRI). Using a 1 – 100 scale, this specifies how well the bulb portrays colours. If you’re using a light for business purposes, CRI is crucial. Is it’s simply for a utilitarian fixture, it’s not as important.

Is dimming a factor?
If you’re planning on dimming a bulb it’s important to purchase a product with the right capabilities. This is a great way to save energy, and create ambience at the twist of a switch. Remember, old incandescent dimmers aren’t always compatible, so you may need to invest in an LED dimmer.

What temperatures will your bulbs be subjected to?
Did you know that LEDs last far longer in colder environments? While they work just as well in hotter temperatures, they may degrade over time. If you’re planning on installing your LED in an area that’s at risk of overheating (such as overhead recessed spotlights) it can be a good idea to invest in lamps that feature advanced cooling systems.

What’s your preferred beam angle?
Beam angle refers to the spread of light from the bulb. Narrow beams give off concentrated streams which are ideal for accent lighting. Wider beams will emit a softer, more expansive glow.

What’s your budget?
Price is generally a factor, and can vary quite significantly from company to company. Take the time to search for a good deal, and always keep an eye out for free shipping. If you’re a business, buying in bulk can be a good idea.
Need help choosing the right LED for your application? Get in touch with one of our friendly customer service agents today to chat about what LED bulbs best suit your needs.