Answering LED Concerns: Choosing the Right Lighting Color Temperature for Your Home

Since the law about incandescent light bulbs went into effect on August 1, many people have expressed concerns about LED bulbs. The most common concern with LED bulbs is that they wash your home out or give off really cool lighting. Incandescent bulbs are known for their warmer tones and while making the switch to LEDs can be difficult, Lighting Design has just the solution to make the switch from incandescent bulbs to LED bulbs seamless. 

 Concern #1: LEDs give off a very blue light. 

Our Answer: The typical LED bulb sold at a box chain store, is usally between 4000-5000K (color temperature). This is because higher kelvins are cheaper to manufacture. We recommend a 2700-3000K rated bulb. This color temp rating will give you a warmer glow similar to incandescent temps. Be sure to check the bulb packaging before purchasing to ensure you are getting the right color temp. Shop bulbs here. 

Concern #2: LEDs burning out faster.

Our Answer: LED bulbs have a longer lifespan than incandescent bulbs. LED bulb lifespans typically range from 25,000 to 200,000 hours. At the same time, incandescent bulbs have a lifespan of only about 1,200 hours. This means you'll save money too when switching to LED bulbs. 

Concern #3: Dimmer switch compatibility. 

Our Answer: When LEDs were first introduced, there were some compatibility issues with dimmer and dimmable light fixtures. However, in the last several years, the technology has only gotten better. You'll find that now, many LEDs offer dimmable technology. Be sure to check the box or description for dimmable descriptions. 

Concern #4: LED bulbs are more expensive. 

Our Answer: The initial price tag of LEDs may be higher than what you are used to with incandescent bulbs. However, in recent years, the gap has closed with the evolution of LED bulb manufacturing. And according to Energy.gov, LED bulbs use 75% less power and last 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. This means that not only is it less money you'll be spending on your electric bill, but you'll also spend less money on replacement light bulbs. 

Tell us in the comments if you'll be making the switch to LED bulbs soon.