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LED lighting: what to buy

Lumens, color temperature and getting LEDs that look good.

Cost: $2 to $10 per bulb 4 min read

LED bulbs use far less energy than incandescent bulbs and last much longer. Choosing the right ones makes the switch pleasant as well as cheaper.

Read the box

  • Lumens = brightness. About 800 lumens replaces an old 60-watt bulb; about 1,600 replaces a 100-watt bulb.
  • Kelvin = color. 2700K is warm and cozy; 3000K is a bit crisper; 4000K and up looks cool and bright.
  • CRI 90+ shows colors more naturally.
  • Check "dimmable" if it's on a dimmer.

Where to start

Replace the bulbs you use most first: kitchen, living room, porch and any light left on for hours.

General energy-saving information. Savings vary by home, climate, equipment and rates. Efficient Home Help isn't paid by any utility, brand or contractor.