Counsels homeowners of the importance of color temperature in LEDs

New Britain, CONN. (May. 22, 2014) – Choosing the right energy efficient light bulb for your home is now easier than ever thanks to new package labeling. Similar to a nutrition label found in grocery stores, the lighting facts label provides information that can help consumers choose the right bulb for a specific room.
Why switch to LED light bulbs? Installing super-efficient ENERGY STAR® LED light bulbs can help homeowners save energy and money. One LED light bulb can last up to 25 times longer and uses about 80 percent less electricity than an old-fashioned incandescent.

Now there is an LED option for every application in your home, but choosing the proper LED light bulb is much different than selecting an old incandescent or compact fluorescent light (CFL).

When choosing a LED light bulb, it is important to understand what color temperature is and how it affects your home. Light color is measured on a temperature scale referred to as Kelvin (K). LED light bulbs with lower Kelvin have a warmer yellow light, whereas bulbs with higher Kelvin have a whiter or bluer light. To match the color of incandescents, look for ENERGY STAR LED light bulbs rated 2,700-3,000 K.

For homeowners seeking a brighter look in rooms such as kitchens and workspaces, look for bulbs marked 3,500-4,100 K. For a bluer, natural light which is good for reading, you want to look for 5,000-6,500 K. Manufacturers have made it easier for consumers by including this information on the package. Choosing the right color for light bulbs is essential for a room’s appearance. To maintain consistent light quality, it’s best to use bulbs with the same Kelvin rating throughout a room.

To help consumers make the easy switch to LEDs, discounts are now available through Energize Connecticut, and prices continue to drop as more options become available. Consumers are also urged to look for the Energize Connecticut logo at participating retailers throughout Connecticut for special discounts. For more information on energy-saving programs and services supported by Energize Connecticut, call 1-877-WISE-USE or visit: EnergizeCT.com.