The type of light bulb you use in your home can have an impact on the way in which a room will look. This is thanks to the colour rendering index, also known as CRI. This index is there to help you measure how a specific light source will reveal the colours in your home in contrast to a natural light source such as the sun.
Colour rendering index
In other words, CRI is the measurement of light in relation to how it affects the appearance of colour. This can also depend on the temperature of the light. Lighting temperatures can range from infrared to ultraviolet. But for your home, the lighting you choose will depend on how you want that room to be used.
The CRI is rated on a scale from 0 to 100, with the higher end corresponding to daylight or a white light defined as “ideal”, based on a black backdrop. The lower end of the index is consistent with a light that has indistinct colours.
CRI & LEDs
While you will likely find a perfect CRI score for incandescent and halogen bulbs, LEDs have taken their time with reaching this point. This is due to issues at the infrared end of the spectrum. However, a lot has changed over the years and some lamps can even reach a CRI score that’s in the 90s! Therefore, finding the best lighting for your home has never been easier. The majority of commercially available LEDs have a CRI score that is more than suitable for the home.
CRI for lighting fixtures
When it’s time to buy the perfect light bulbs for your home, you cannot overlook CRI. It is important to bear in mind how the lighting will affect the décor, paint colour choices and even the furniture. You must also factor in how the lighting you choose will affect the function of the space. For example, if you intend to use the space as a reading nook, you don’t want the light to be too harsh or cold.
The CRI scale has been popular since LED lighting was introduced to homes and would come with a quick guide on the packaging to help customers understand the properties of each bulb. These properties include the number of lumens, watts and efficiency metrics, and of course, the CRI. Choosing lights with a higher CRI rating ensures an accurate reflection of colour throughout the home.
Never ignore CRI
When choosing the correct lighting for your home, there are many things to consider, whether it be energy efficiency or price. The CRI is something that you must also consider as it will clarify how bright your home will be and whether the environment will be clear and crisp with perfect colour.
LED is a smart choice made by many and can be bought at a range of prices that are suitable for any budget. If you think it’s time to upgrade your lighting and brighten up your home, then look no further than ABM. We are more than happy to talk through your options to see what products would be best for you. Get in touch to find out more.
