We all need light bulbs. If you are constructing a new house or looking to replace the old bulbs, you need to consider a number of factors when making the purchase. Some of these factors include:
Shape of the bulbs
Light bulbs come in different shapes. The shape of the bulb not only determines the look of the bulb, it also determines the light spread. The most common bulb shapes include:
Classic: This is the traditional shape and it’s ideal for a wide range of fittings.
Mini globes: It’s orb shaped and known for its soft and inviting light.
Capsules: These are basically two-pronged halogen bulbs that are used in small light fixtures
Candles: It’s flame-shaped and ideal for chandeliers and older-style light fixtures
Spotlights: They are specifically designed for bright targeted spotlights
Spiral and stick: It has a spiral design and it’s known to be the most energy efficient bulb for your home
Tubes: These are long cylinder-shaped bulbs used for functional lighting.
Reflectors: They are designed to illuminate large areas with wide beams of light
Cap fitting of the bulb
Just as they come in different shapes, bulbs come in different cap fittings. The cap fitting that you go for depends on the fitting on your light. The most common fittings in the market are: large bayonet, large screw, small screw, specialist, small bayonet and GU10. When making the purchase, carefully check the fitting as the wrong fitting won’t fit your light.
Technology of the bulb
Light bulbs have three main technologies: LED, energy saving, and halogen. The technology determines the bulb’s lifespan and efficiency.
Halogen: Halogen bulbs have a lifespan of up to 2 years, provide you with 30% energy saving and produce instant, crisp bright light.
Energy saving: Energy saving bulbs have a lifespan of up to 10 years, provide 80% energy saving and produce warm, soft diffused light.
LED: Provide you with 90% energy saving and a lifespan of 25 years. They produce instant, crisp, bright light.
Brightness level of the bulb
The brightness level of the bulb that you go for depends on your needs. If you need a lot of light, go for a bright bulb but if you don’t need plenty of light, go for a dim bulb.
Conclusion
These are the factors that you should consider when buying light bulbs. When making the purchase ensure that you buy from a reputable bulb store that will sell you genuine high-quality bulbs.
