1. LEDs are incredibly energy efficient
Light emitting diodes (LEDs)are the latest technology in the lighting world. Since LEDs are such a new technology, shop carefully.
Like fluorescent lights, you’ll want to take a close look at the color rendering index (CRI) and the color temperature of any LED.
Color rendering index is a measure of any light source’s ability to render colors accurately. You want a CRI of at least 80.

Color temperature, which is measured in kelvins, gives you an idea of what the light will actually look like. The higher the number, the bluer the light source. Incandescent light is around 2700K-3000K. That color temperature in an LED typically looks very natural in the home. Avoid LEDs that are much above 4000K unless you prefer the look of a very “cool” light. Do not buy an LED that is much above 4000K for your home.

2. Use lumen output to choose a LED
Some LEDs on the market claim to be incredibly efficient and they are, in that they use very little energy. However, it’s no use replacing inefficient incandescents with LEDs if you mistakenly select an LED that doesn’t emit enough light.

Most people judge light output by watts (energy consumption); but for energy efficient sources, this is an inadequate measure. What you’re really looking for is lumens (light output).

3. Fluorescent light is one of the most efficient lighting sources
For the minimal amount of energy consumed, fluorescent lights give off a surprising amount of light output. And if the word “fluorescent” makes you think of unpleasant, slightly blue office lights, think again. Fluorescent lighting has come a long way since it was invented in the 1930s.

Fluorescent lamps typically are available in “warm white,” “neutral white,” “cool white” and “daylight.” Most people prefer “warm white” for the home, as this is most similar to the familiar yellowish glow of the incandescent light.