Some tips for choosing a light source

• Fluorescent lamps are a good choice for residences, but to have flicker-free, quiet operation, an electronic ballast is required.
• For good color properties in residences, request fluorescent lamps with a CCT of 2700 to 3500 K and a CRI of at least 80 or above.
• Compact fluorescent lamps can produce the same amount of light for about 1/3 the wattage of a common incandescent lamp. Just make sure the compact fluorescent lamp fits completely inside the luminaire to avoid seeing the lamp itself. Also, high-quality compact fluorescent lamps always have the Energy Star label on the package.
• Fluorescent lamps and compact fluorescent lamps are cooler to touch than incandescent lamps. Incandescent lamps can be a burn hazard in task lights.
• If incandescent and fluorescent (or compact fluorescent) lamps are used in the same room, choose fluorescent lamps with CCT of 2700 to 3000 K to match the warm color of light from incandescent lamps.
• The light-emitting filament in a common incandescent lamp is very bright when the lamp is operated at maximum power (i.e., without dimming). If it is not possible to shield the incandescent lamp from view, select a bulb with a frosted finish to help reduce glare.
• To concentrate light onto a specific area (e.g., a countertop or a work of art on the wall), use a halogen PAR incandescent lamp. The table below illustrates how PAR lamps provide higher illuminances than common incandescent and compact fluorescent lamps. Remember, recessed downlights add to the light produced by ambient lighting.

Note: The calculated illuminance levels (center of the beam) are based upon a common A19 incandescent lamp, a PAR 30 lamp, and a compact fluorescent quad-tube lamp. These lamps were assumed to be in a Lightolier Lytecaster #1005 with Step Baffle mounted 66 inches (in.) above the countertop [8 feet (ft) ceiling height].

Illuminance is defined as the amount of light falling on the task.