How’s color temperature measured?

Color temperature is expressed in kelvin (using the abbreviation “K”), a unit of measure for absolute temperature. When the color temperature is over 5000 K, it’s referred to as "cool-colored" (bluish-white). Lower color temperatures (2700–3000 K) are called "warm-colored" (yellowish-white through red).

Should I buy warm- or cool-colored lighting?

Choose your optimal lighting based on the task and space.

Warm-colored lighting helps us wind down. So, consider using it in your living spaces and bedrooms. The warmer hues feel more natural in the evenings, and they mimic the light from incandescent bulbs more than their cool-colored counterparts. As a result, warm-colored lighting is the most popular choice for homes. 

Cool-colored lighting helps us feel more alert and energetic, which is helpful when performing tasks. This means that cool-colored light may work best in your closets, basement, home office, workplace and kitchen. The cool temperature feels brighter, cleaner and more modern.

Warm-colored lighting helps us wind down. So, consider using it in your living spaces and bedrooms. The warmer hues feel more natural in the evenings, and they mimic the light from incandescent bulbs more than their cool-colored counterparts. As a result, warm-colored lighting is the most popular choice for homes.

What’s a lumen?

A light’s brightness is measured in lumens (abbreviated as “lm”). If a light bulb is super bright, it produces a lot of lumens. Because LED lighting delivers more lumens per watt of electricity, LEDs are a more efficient light source than incandescent bulbs.

Need quick access to lighting info? Download this Simply Conserve Lighting Choices Guide.