Originally Posted by
nativetexan
where in the world do you find day light bulbs? I hate bulb shopping. it's so confusing now with all the curly bulbs out there that i simply hate. the wattage is not what it used to be either. my fridge has LED lights and looks like an airport runway when i open the door. I've been wondering about LED lights....
When buying bulbs, and I do like the OttLite BULBS (won't spend the money on the lamps - they're too expensive when i can put the bulb in any existing light fixture/lamp) I pay attention to the LUMENS and the KELVINS (k)
The
lumens refer to how bright the light will be. I have found that 100watt equivalent bulbs will have different lumens depending on the manufacturer...Generally speaking, 60w equivalent bulb just won't do it for me - not enough light. I have to have 75 or 100w equivalent bulbs(depending on the lumens)
The
Kelvins refer to the type of light - soft white/warm white/bright white/daylight. Soft whites tend to be more yellow in color. Bright White bulbs are about 3000K and Daylight buldbs are 5000K
My favorite bulb is actually a Bright White CFL bulb and i can get that at Home Depot. I found them when I was looking for light bulbs in my kitchen.
I also don't have ceiling fixtures in my rooms. I have never liked overhead lighting because it causes shadows on whatever i'm working on. I'm much happier w/ floor lamps, table lamps, or lights directed right on to my work.
Once you learn what kind of light - soft/warm/bright/day/light bulbs, then start comparing lumens to make your choice. One more thing - a clear bulb will appear brighter than a frosted bulb.
And now you have your Light Bulb Shopping 101 free of charge!! LOL!!
