LED There Be Light
- by David Neubert - updated on 12/21/2014
The technology behind LED light bulbs continues to improve. Not only are these light bulb types incredibly energy-efficient and long-lasting, but their many variable characteristics allow lighting environments in homes and businesses to be customized unlike ever before.
A RANGE OF COLORS
The amount of different color temperature options for LED bulbs allows for a unique look and feel for every room in the house. For example, when replacing the bulb in a warm and relaxing space, soft white is a great color option. Or, when looking to make cooler colors in a home or office "pop," then choosing cool white or daylight bulbs will add some dimension.
The different color capabilities of an LED light bulb are determined by the LED chip itself, and with constant advancement in this technology, the range of color options continues to grow. Here are the current color temperatures for LED bulbs and their corresponding measurements in Kelvins.
| Color | Kelvins |
|---|---|
| Amber | 2400K |
| Soft White (Warm White) | 2700K – 3000K |
| Bright White | 3500K – 4000K |
| Cool White | 4000K – 4500K |
| Daylight | 5000K – 6500K |
| Blue | 6500K < |
| Violet | 8500K < |
BEAM ANGLES
DIRECTIONAL BULBS
Another consideration when lighting a room are the beam angles of the light emitted by different bulbs. For example, if you are looking to replace recessed or track lighting, selecting a reflector or PAR (Parabolic Aluminized Reflector) light bulb is typically the best option, as the reflector inside the bulb allows for the most light to be projected downward. These light bulbs are typically referred to as “directional,” because the light is directed one way.
The number included in the description of these PAR lamps (i.e. PAR20, PAR30, PAR38, etc.) is based on the diameter of the bulbs. In order to calculate it, you divide the PAR number by 8. For example, a PAR64 lamp has a diameter of 8 inches.
PAR BULB APPLICATIONS
The benefit of a PAR or reflector bulb is that you have different beam angle options. For instance, spotlights are great for accenting an object such as a painting, whereas floodlights are great for creating larger washes of light for areas like parking lots and other places that need light for security purposes.
OMNI-DIRECTIONAL
Over the last few years, LED technology has also enabled basic A-style bulbs (which resemble incandescent bulbs) to emit light in virtually all directions (omni-directional), which is ideal for table lamps, desk lamps and other standard lighting uses.
With options in color temperature and beam spread, your ability to create the perfect lighting for each room in your home or office has never been greater. Make sure you take time to understand the exact feel and function that you're hoping to achieve with your lighting, and consult a Batteries Plus Bulbs expert to assist in selecting the perfect bulbs for your needs.