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Start by understanding lumens, or the brightness of an LED globe. This is listed on the packaging. The higher the number, the brighter the light. For example, if you're looking to replace a 100-watt incandescent globe, select an LED bulb that gives about 1600 lumens.
The colour rendering index (CRI) is important too. Measured on a scale of 1-100, this explains how accurately the colours are illuminated and appear to human eyes. The higher the index, the better the colour. For tasks that need accurate colour differentiation, globes with a CRI of 90 or higher are a good bet.
If energy efficiency is on your radar, look for a globe that has A++. This rating scales down to E, as the least efficient option. When you're shopping around, know the socket type of your globe. There are many on the market, but the most common for standard household light fittings is the E27 (27mm Edison screw).
Select lights for different areas of your home by considering the colour temperature. Measured in degrees of Kelvin (K), this describes the light appearance produced by a globe.
There are three main colour temperatures, soft white light (2700K-3000K); bright white (3500K-4100K) and daylight (5000K-6500K).
While it comes down to personal preference, as a guide, soft white is ideal for the relaxed areas of your home, bright white is excellent for the lounge, and daylight is perfect for the bathroom.
Some other things to consider include using subtle reading lights in the bedroom, coupled with soft white ambient light. Avoid lighting that casts harsh, scary shadows in the kids' bedroom, opt for even light instead.
The kitchen is the hub of the family home, so have some individually controlled lights here to maintain flexibility and encourage multi use. Use bright white for food preparation and try hanging pendants for close work over an island bench.
The living room is an area where layering works effectively. Include some floor lamps as task lighting for reading a book, and be sure to have a dimmable ambient light for watching the TV at night. When selecting colour temperature consider wall colour. Remember warm light complements oranges and reds with their warm colour palette.
View the full range of Ledvance lighting products available at your local Bunnings.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
