Some ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs have a bluish white hue (“cool”) and others seem almost yellow ( “warm” ) in comparison. How can I find consistent colors in lighting?
Just like incandescent bulbs are labeled soft white, cool white, bright white, etc., you will find ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs labeled soft white, cool white, or daylight (similar to bright white). When selecting a new CFL, it is a good idea to use the same color type as the incandescent you are replacing. Another way to do this is to look for the scientific color designation known as correlated color temperature (CCT) on the packaging: 2,700K, 3,000K, 5,100K, etc. Lower CCT numbers mean the light will be warmer white (yellowish), while higher numbers mean it will be cooler light (bluish). Matching these numbers gets you consistent color. The majority of CFLs available in the market offer soft or warm white light (2700K3000K), which is comparable to an incandescent bulb. When changing out multiple bulbs in one room, select ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs with the same color and the same manufacturer to help ensure more consistent light color. More information on CFL colors.
Related Questions
- My store sells 2-packs of CFLs for $14.00. Since the ENERGY STAR qualified "specialty" compact fluorescent light bulbs rebate is $3.00, can 2 instant rebates be applied?
- Some ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs have a bluish white hue ("cool") and others seem almost yellow ( "warm" ) in comparison. How can I find consistent colors in lighting?
- What’s the difference between an ENERGY STAR qualified CFL and other CFLs?
