Any electrical contractor can explain that choosing the right light bulb wattage is not as simple as it seems. The first step is to select the proper wattage for the fixture that will not cause overheating or fires. Next, consider how wattage affects energy efficiency in the home. For example, a standard incandescent light bulb between 75 and 100 watts can be replaced with a 20 watt fluorescent bulb to achieve the same amount of light. Lastly, think about how much light output is required for the area, be it a kitchen or bedroom.
Selecting Wattage to Match Fixture
Ceiling Fixture Lighting
It's always important to match light bulb wattage with the fixture's specifications. An electrical contractor can explain that this is an important safety measure and prevents overheating. A common sign that the wrong light bulb wattage has been installed in a fixture is a brown spot on the insulation. The wiring may also become brittle from constant exposure to high temperatures from the bulb. Using the same wattage as required on the fixture's warning label can prevent accidental household fires.
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Efficiency and Fluorescent Lights
It can be necessary to consider how a high wattage affects the efficiency of energy use in the home. Generally, the efficiency of higher watt bulb is greater and produces more light than a smaller watt. For this reason it's best to use one fixture with a bright bulb instead of two lamps with dimmer bulbs. When it's time to change an incandescent light bulb there is no need to get the same wattage if a fluorescent bulb will be installed. This is because fluorescent bulbs achieve the same light output at 20 watts as an incandescent does at 75.
Light Bulbs for High Visibility
Choosing light bulbs for a kitchen require a bit of care as a lot of visibility is needed. In general, workspace lighting should be at least 100 watts of incandescent or 25 watts of fluorescent lighting. Workspace lighting may come from either ceiling fixtures or under-cabinet lights. An electrical contractor can properly install both of these fixtures. Aim for at least 100 watts of incandescent or 25 fluorescent lightings watts for every 50 square feet of kitchen space. This ensures the area is brightly light and everything is visible.
Ambient Lighting
To determine the right ambient lighting for a living room or bedroom, a simple formula can be used. First, take the dimensions of the room and multiply to find the square footage. Multiply the square footage by 1.5 to get the total amount of illumination needed. A 12' by 16' room, for example, has a square footage of 192 with 288 watts necessary. For a room this size, select two table lamps with 150 watt bulbs or 8 fixtures with 40 watt bulbs to give off the correct amount of light.
Because choosing the right wattage for a home can be difficult, it can be helpful to consult an electrical contractor to determine how to properly light a room. In general, areas that require high visibility like the kitchen may need light bulbs with a higher light output. Bedrooms and family rooms can get by with lower watts for ambient lighting. Fluorescent and incandescent bulbs give off different amounts of light with the same wattage, making it important to compare light output as well. As any electrical contractor knows, the most important thing is to use the right wattage for any fixture to prevent overheating and the potential for fires.
Light Bulb Wattage: What Is The Right Wattage?
With over 30 years of experience, Bob Lord is an expert at installing and repairing electrical wiring. Bob has a unique and outstanding knowledge of residential and commercial electrical installation and repair.
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