Some things you need to know before Purchasing Fluorescent Bulbs
The more people we speak with, the more obvious it is that North America is undergoing a huge learning curve regarding energy efficient light bulbs. Our thanks to Wholesale Bulbs for allowing us to republish this essential information.
1) Light Color: The incandescent light bulb color temperature often seen in today's typical incandescent bulb is referred to as "Warm White" as it has more of a "yellow" color on the light color index. The higher the Kelvin color temperature of the bulb the whiter or "cooler" the color will appear to the eye.
2700K-3100K: Warm White gives off a warm full glow which is the color and feel of typical incandescent Lighting. Warm White is ideal for Bedrooms, Dining Rooms, Living Rooms and Family Rooms.
4000K-5000K: Cool White gives off clean soft illumination. Cool White is ideal for Kitchens, Bathrooms, Reading and Working.
6000K-6500K: Daylight White gives off a bright, quality light ideal for reading and detail oriented activities.
2) Shape and Size: You need to know the shape and size of the bulbs you require for your light fixtures.
3) Fitting type: You need to know your base type. The "standard" base type that is found on most incandescent bulbs is called E-26. The smaller shape used with some candelabra bulbs is called E-12. The new fluorescent light fixtures use a GU-24 base shape.
4) Parabolic Aluminized Reflectors: (PAR)-Outdoor flood bulbs that are resistant to damp areas. PAR bulbs are used for spotlighting or as flood lights. PAR is the trade designation of a type of lamp that offer "flat" lighting and is widely used in commercial, residential, and transportation illumination. Flat lighting can be defined as even front lighting of a subject, producing little contrast, no shadows, and no modeling.
5) Efficiency: You should always look for Energy Star approved bulbs. Bulbs with the United States Federal Government Energy Star approval have passed rigorous life testing, performance testing and energy utilization testing.
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