Let there be light! Light bulbs do more than simply add light to dark spaces. They can also alter the mood of a room. Depending on the bulb you choose for your lighting, you can get every shade from a warm, yellow light to a bluish white light. Some lights are even designed to mimic daylight.
Certain lighting is best for certain spaces. For example, reading is best done in bluer light, while ENERGY STAR recommends a bright white light for work spaces like offices and kitchens.
Since color does play a role in your overall mood and even performance in different situations, choosing your bulbs wisely is important. Light color is measured by temperature on the Kelvin scale (K). The lower the K value, the warmer, more yellow the light color will be. The higher the K value, the cooler, more blue the light color will be.
Colors of a Light Bulb:
- For yellowish to warm light, look for bulbs marked 2700-3000K.
- For a whiter light, look for bulbs marked 3500-4100K.
- For bluer white light, look for bulbs marked 5000-6500K.
Fun Fact: Most ENERGY STAR certified bulbs are made to match the color of incandescent bulbs at 2700-3000K.
Use Lighting To Improve The Mood Of Your Home Or Workspace
- Dark, poorly lit rooms can leave you feeling drowsy or depressed. Keep rooms well lit to increase alertness and improve your overall mood.
- Warmer colored lighting (or bulbs marked 2700-3000K) are great for use in your bedroom as they support winding down and preparing for sleep.
- If you’re looking for an energy boost, use a bluer light marked with 5000K–they give off the effect of natural light which can increase your energy and alertness.
Lastly, remember to choose energy efficient lighting options to help you save energy and money each month. In fact, Energy.gov reports that if you upgraded your five most used light fixtures to use Energy Star approved light bulbs, you could save approximately $45 a year. And each bulb itself can save you up to $4 a year in annual energy costs.
