How to Choose the Right Brightness: Understanding Lumens vs. Watts
One of the most common points of confusion when switching from incandescent bulbs to LEDs is the difference between
watts and lumens.
Incandescent bulbs are rated by watts, while LEDs are rated by lumens.
To make the transition easier, here’s a simple lumens-to-watts conversion chart:
Incandescent Bulb Wattage
|
LED Bulb Lumens
|
40-watt Incandescent Bulb
|
500 Lumens
|
60-watt Incandescent Bulb
|
800 Lumens
|
75-watt Incandescent Bulb
|
1200 Lumens
|
100-watt Incandescent Bulb
|
1600 Lumens
|
150-watt Incandescent Bulb
|
2800 Lumens
|
Upgrading Incandescent to LED Technology: What U.S. Businesses Should Know
Many existing lighting fixtures, especially in older commercial properties or residential buildings across the U.S., were designed to handle the higher wattages of traditional incandescent bulbs.
When replacing
incandescent bulbs with LEDs, the energy consumption and operational costs will be reduced, without major rewiring or fixture modifications.
However, there’s one important exception:
If the facility uses dimmable incandescent bulbs, older dimmer switches may not be fully compatible with LED technology. Some issues like
flickering, buzzing, or incomplete dimming may occur.
Choosing the Right LED Replacement for Incandescent Bulbs
When selecting an LED alternative, it’s critical to match the
bulb shape, base type, and performance specs to your existing fixtures.
Key Factors to Consider:
Verify the bulb base matches your fixture. For example, if you're replacing a standard A19 incandescent bulb, you need to choose an LED bulb with the same
E26 base.
Confirm whether the fixture is connected to a dimmer. Selecting a
dimmable LED bulb and an LED-compatible dimmer switch for proper functionality.
LED options come in various types, from standard omnidirectional bulbs to specialty designs for recessed cans, decorative fixtures, and high-bay applications. Choose the type that matches your intended use.
FAQs You May Concerned About When Replacing Incandescent Bulbs with LED
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How to Replace Incandescent Light Bulbs with LEDs?
Incandescent and LED bulbs typically use the same base. As long as you select a product that works for your existing fixture, the replacement process is straightforward. The steps are shown below:
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What If I Can't Get the Incandescent Bulb Out of the Fixture?
Here are the steps to follow if you encounter a stuck bulb:
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Once the old bulb is out, place the LED alternative in its place. It might help to place a small amount of silicone spray in the fixture to lubricate the threads. If you put your hands into the base receptacle area, take a moment to wipe it out first.
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What If the Light Bulb Breaks During Extraction?
If the light bulb shatters when removed, you must still remove it from the fixture to finish the LED upgrade. The easiest tool to use is a pair of pliers. Another trick is to use a raw potato. Make sure the switch is still off. Then, cut the potato in half, pressing it firmly against the socket to get enough leverage to twist the base.
If those options don't work, a broken bulb extractor tool might be necessary. Once the fractured bulb is out, you can clean the fixture and install the LED alternative.
