While most light bulbs have the same basic function, there are a variety of options available so you can get confused. Instead of buying the first light bulb you think is 'workable', take the time to find the right bulb for your fitting. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you'll also have the best lighting in your home, as well as preventing fire hazards from making the wrong choices.
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Part 1 of 3: Understanding Light Bulb Basics
Step 1. Find the right power level (wattage)
The first thing you should consider when looking for a light bulb partner for its fittings is the power in watts. Each light bulb has its own unit of power, which indicates the amount of energy it produces. This amount will vary from 40 to 120 watts for traditional fittings. When powered on, each plug has a limit on the maximum amount of power. This is the highest wattage the fitting can accommodate, without creating a fire hazard. Therefore, you need to choose a light bulb with a wattage content equal to or less than the maximum wattage content of the fitting.
- Bulbs with a high wattage content and exceeding the maximum fitting limit carry a great risk of fire.
- You can use a light bulb with a lower wattage than the fitting requires.
Step 2. Pay attention to the lumen aspect
Lumen refers to the amount of light a light bulb emits (as opposed to watts, which represents the amount of energy). The higher the lumen of a light bulb, the brighter the light. So, if you want to light up a large room, choose a bulb with a high lumen count (above 1,000). Small fixtures or table lamps don't need high-lumen bulbs.
The higher the lumen, the more light emitted by the bulb will resemble natural sunlight
Step 3. See how the light bulb looks
There are many different shapes of light bulbs, each for different uses. The most common shapes of light bulbs are regular shapes, spirals, and A shapes. In addition, there are drop shapes, globes, flames (like flames), tuba, and several other variations. Usually, this shape doesn't matter much, although some types of fittings may require a specific light bulb to function properly. Check your system first, then find a suitable light bulb.
- Make sure you check the plug socket type and size so you know what kind of bulb you need.
- There are 4 main types of groups to define standard lamp types: Candelabra - E12 North America, E11 in Europe; Intermediate - E17 North America, E14 (Small ES, SES) in Europe; medium/standard - E26 (MES) in North America, E27 (ES) in Europe; Mogul - Mogul: E39 North America, E40 (Goliath ES) in Europe.
- The number after the letter E indicates the external diameter of the bulb in millimeters. For example, E27 means the external diameter is 27 mm.
Step 4. Find out the 'life expectancy' of the light bulb
All lamps are not created equal; in fact, some species last a long time, while others last only a few months or years. Each light bulb must write its life expectancy on the back, which is calculated based on normal use of three hours a day. If you are installing a light bulb in a quality fitting, choose a bulb with a longer life expectancy than a bulb that is rarely used.
- Incandescent light bulbs usually have the shortest lifespan.
- Halogen bulbs are an updated version of traditional incandescent bulbs (they're also cheap). Efficiency and better service life.
- Compact fluorescent light bulbs have a lifespan several times longer than incandescent bulbs, but can quickly wear off if they are switched on and off frequently.
- LED bulbs typically have the longest lifespan, are several times better than incandescent bulbs, and are much better than fluorescent bulbs. The manufacturer of this light bulb provides a long-term warranty to confirm its lifespan, typically 15,000 hours (15 years if used 3 hours/day), and is claimed to last through 50,000 on-off cycles.
Step 5. Pay attention to the 'light appearance' of the light bulb
Most light bulbs will have their 'light appearance' written on the packaging - this tells you how warm or cold the light's temperament is. Light on the warm side means more yellowish/orange, while light on the cool side means closer to blue/white. While this may not be a serious consideration when you're choosing a light bulb, make sure you don't go wrong with buying a white bulb when you want to buy a yellow bulb.
The appearance of light is measured in temperature using the Kelvin scale. A color temperature that typically ranges between 2,700k-3,000K is considered "warm white". 3,500K-4,500K is "neutral white", which is also sometimes called "bright white", while above 5,000K is "cool/cool white" or "daylight" (these names are estimates only. lower means the light is warmer/yellowish, while higher means cooler/bluish)
Step 6. Check the required power
In addition to the price of the bulb itself, you will have to pay an additional fee based on the power required. You must pay this fee in the utility bill over the life of a light bulb. Energy efficient light bulbs will cost much less in their lifetime, when compared to traditional light bulbs. If possible, choose a bulb that costs less over its lifetime. This means you'll have to pay a little more when you buy it, but you'll save money in the long run.
Step 7. Check the mercury content in the bulb
This mercury content does not affect light or overall use of the bulb; however, you should not throw away light bulbs containing mercury carelessly. If your light bulb contains mercury, don't throw it in the trash. Today, most CFL light bulbs contain mercury, but you should still check every time you buy a light bulb.
Part 2 of 3: Learning the Types of Light Bulbs
Step 1. Try a compact fluorescent/CFL light bulb
This term refers to various variations of light bulbs. CFL energy saving as much as 20-40% in producing the same light intensity / lumen. The color of the CFL light is adjusted to be closer to the sunlight.
- CFLs produce less heat and offer a longer life than incandescent light bulbs, so you can save money on electricity bills, while protecting the environment from harmful greenhouse gas emissions.
- Look for Energy Star labels on fluorescent fittings and lamps to ensure you get the maximum safety, quality and standards.
- CFL is often used for desk lamps, lamp stands, lamps under cabinets, table lamps, linear strips, wall lamps, mount lamps, chandeliers, ceiling lamps, pendants, kitchen lamps, street lamps, outdoor lamps. The first generation CFLs can be used in fittings with motion sensors or lights that have a dimmer switch; although second-generation CFLs (which are usually more expensive) may have their own functions.
Step 2. Try using a fluorescent light /FL bulb
Choose FL for energy saving and practicality (FL is very versatile). FL is very efficient in using energy. You can save up to 20-405% electricity by using FL instead of standard incandescent light bulbs. FL can also last 20 times longer. Many of the newer FL models are perfect for lighting someone up while they're working on a task. The type that stays turned and tightened can also be used to replace incandescent light bulbs in standard light sockets. The warmth and softness of the light is also better.
FL is often used for desk lamps, standing lamps, under cabinet lamps, table lamps, linear strips, wall lamps, mount lamps, chandeliers, ceiling lamps, pendants, kitchen lamps, street lamps, outdoor lamps
Step 3. Try a halogen bulb
Most light bulbs today are halogen bulbs. These light bulbs produce whiter, more intense light (more lumens) per watt than regular incandescent bulbs. This light bulb best represents the color spectrum of the sun. Its small size with great intensity makes this light bulb the perfect choice for lighting up a room.
- For accurate and controlled lighting, low-voltage halogen light bulbs are commonly used to give a dramatic effect in bringing out details in works of art, architecture, sculpture, etc. Low-voltage halogen bulbs are typically 12 or 24 volts in size and require a transformer.
- Since halogen bulbs heat up more easily than other light bulbs, you need to be extra careful. All halogen lamps sold in the US are equipped with certified shielding to reduce the risk of fire. When replacing a halogen bulb, make sure it cools down before you touch it. Always use a clean cloth to handle halogen bulbs, as the oil from your hands will heat up the bulbs and can significantly reduce their lifespan. Here are some examples of halogen bulbs: GU-10, MR-16, JC/JCD, G9, JDE-11, JT-3, JT-4, PAR
- Halogen light bulbs are most often used for desk lamps, torchiere, standing lamps, table accent lamps, under cabinet lamps, bathroom lamps, dressing table lamps, wall lamps, swing lamps, ceiling lamps, flush mounts, pendants, directional lights, chandeliers, kitchen lights, garden lights, pathway lights, and warning/outdoor lights.
Step 4. Use an incandescent light bulb
This bulb is the most common type of light bulb because it's inexpensive and easy to buy. Typical incandescent bulbs vary in power, from 15 to 150 watts, and produce a soft yellowish-white light, but have a wide temperature range, from reddish to bluish. These light bulbs are usually available in a choice of clear, patterned, or colored styles.
- In a standard incandescent light bulb, the light is produced when the filament is heated until it glows, through the flow of an electric current in the glass of the bulb. Incandescent light bulbs then become reflectors and produce general lighting, which is commonly referred to as floor/spot light.
- This bulb is suitable for standard and higher wattage environmental lighting, and is perfect for any room. Make sure you never exceed the maximum wattage limit when using this bulb! For example: G25, G16.5, T Bulb, BR/R, Standard Medium Base, Standard Candelabra, Fan/Appliance.
- Incandescent lamps are usually used as accent lamps, buffet lamps, reading lamps, study table lamps, standing lamps, hurricane lamps, lighting lamps, exhibition lamps, bathroom lamps, wall lamps, swing lamps, wallchiere, ceiling lamps, pendant lamps, directional lamps, kitchen lamps, pendant lamps, shelf lamps, outdoor chandeliers, garden lamps, street lamps.
- Incandescent light bulbs began to be eliminated because they are not efficient in using energy. These light bulbs are starting to be banned or required to raise their energy efficiency standards.
Step 5. Try a Parabolic Aluminized Reflector (PAR) bulb
You can control the light level with a PAR bulb. PAR lamps can be incandescent, halogen, or HID types, and have an accurate reflector glass lamp, which is useful for reflecting light from a filament (such as a satellite dish). PAR lamps rely on an internal reflector and prism in the lens, to produce a controlled/focused beam. These light bulbs are very bright and can be used to control light levels accurately.
Halogen PAR bulbs have a reflector to control the light. These light bulbs also usually have special uses for accent lighting
Step 6. Consider a xenon bulb
Use this light bulb to light the path. Xenon bulbs are made from Xenon, which is a rare gas for specialty lamps. Xenon can last up to 10,000 hours. These light bulbs can be touched with the naked hand, unlike halogen bulbs, and are often used to light pathways.
Festival light bulbs have a unique shape and are usually low-voltage. This light bulb is coated with dull or clear glass. For lighting a room or indirect lighting (such as under a cupboard or shelf, above a cupboard, or in a closet), choose a dull festoon light bulb. However, if you want to provide a specific access point to illuminate things that really need to be "glossy" (e.g. jewelry, porcelain, crystal), use clear festoon light bulbs
Step 7. Try the LED (light emitting diode)
An LED is a small electronic device that lights up when electrical power passes through it. LEDs are very efficient at consuming energy, and have a very long life. LEDs can emit red, green, blue, or white. LED light bulbs can be used almost anywhere, such as a regular room, as table lamps, outdoor pendant lamps, garden lamps, pathway lamps and spotlights.
LED light bulbs haven't been on the market for a long time, but are already showing great potential. The LED light bulb market is expected to grow more than twelvefold in the next decade, from approximately $2 billion in early 2014 to 25 billion dollars in 2023 - at an annual growth rate of 25%
Step 8. Choose a special light bulb for a specific need as well
Consider the various options available to suit your needs.
- Black Light: a fluorescent lamp designed to emit invisible ultraviolet light.
- Heat Lamps: light bulbs used to increase the temperature in a certain area. These light bulbs are commonly used by the food industry and outdoor waiting areas.
- Krypton Lamps: premium light bulbs that use krypton gas instead of argon.
- Shatter Resistant, Silicone & Teflon Coated, etc.: this bulb has a protective coating that keeps it from cracking and breaking. This light bulb consists of various types.
- Full Spectrum Daylight (FSD): FSD light bulbs are designed to produce natural light and are considered beneficial for health, for example to relieve stress, depression and headaches. FSD light bulbs are most commonly used for study desks and lamp stands.
- Germicidal Lamps: lamps in this category offer ultraviolet light technology, which is a non-chemical approach to disinfection. In the process, these light bulbs are very simple, economical and easy to maintain.
Step 9. Consider an Electron Stimulated Luminescence (ESL) bulb for future use
These light bulbs are the latest technology offering a cutting-edge option for consumers who want a lamp that is efficient, but not as harmful as CFLs and not as expensive as LEDs. The R30 ESL bulb is designed to be a replacement for the 65 watt incandescent bulb, which is typically used in a variety of homes as well as construction and remodeling purposes.
The R30 ESL lamp offers uniform illumination and is indistinguishable from the incandescent lamps it replaces. Its high power also makes it more environmentally friendly than fluorescent lamps. This bulb produces approximately 10,000 hours of light without significant change. The price is around Rp. 175,000-Rp. 400,000. Although the production and testing of this light bulb makes it slow to be released to the market, this bulb is still planned to be mass produced
Part 3 of 3: Adjusting the Fitting to the Light Bulb
Step 1. Choose a light bulb for a table lamp or lamp stand
If you have a standing lamp for the floor or a large table lamp, there are several light bulb options you can use. Look for a light bulb in the shape of a spiral or an A off with a fluorescent / incandescent type. Choose bulbs with a warmer color temperament, as they will light up your room and are more eye-friendly (like daylight bulbs).
Step 2. Find the light bulb for the pendant fitting
Since pendant fittings make at least half of the bulb visible, you need to choose a bulb that emits the right light. Look for traditional or globe shaped light bulbs, with warmer color temperaments. Most people choose CFL or halogen bulbs for this purpose.
Step 3. Select a light bulb for the ceiling fitting
This type is usually closed so that the bulb is not visible. This way, you have more light bulb options than pendant fittings. Choose a bulb with a long life so you don't have to replace it often. You can adjust the color temperature to the atmosphere of the room. You can use any type of light bulb (as long as it fits the fitting), but make sure you prioritize eco-friendly bulbs.
Step 4. Find light bulbs for wall lamps
Wall lamps are usually smaller and useful as decoration. This means that you should choose a light bulb that is small enough for the cover to cover. Opt for tubular or flame-shaped bulbs, as both types of bulbs are small enough to fit behind a wall lampshade. CFL and incandescent light bulbs are the types most often chosen for wall lamps.
Step 5. Select the bulb for the recessed can lamp
Since this type of fitting does not contain much ventilation space, the risk of fire is highest. Therefore, you should choose a light bulb with a maximum wattage rating that does not exceed the fitting. Most people choose halogen, CFL, or incandescent light bulbs for recessed can fittings. The temper of the light will vary, depending on your desired location.
Step 6. Find a light bulb for outdoor use
If the bulb will not be protected, choose a special outdoor light bulb that is not easily damaged. Otherwise, opt for a spiral or tubular light bulb with a 'bright white' glow. LED and halogen and incandescent bulbs are the most popular choices. Consider the fact that you will have to purchase a special light bulb if you are running a lighting fixture that uses a timer. Visit your nearest light shop to learn about your options.
