There are concerns about certain types of light that can be a hazard to your eyes. And the possible long-term damage or eye disease from certain types of light wavelengths, are risky as well. Which types of light are considered healthy due to their color temperature? In this article, you’ll learn more about warm white and cool white, and which of these is better for you. You will also learn a bit about how warm white light is best used in your home. And also how it helps beautify aspects and decorative furniture you own.
What is a warm white light bulb?
Standard incandescent light bulbs have a filament inside them that burns as bright as the sun. As a result, the light they produce is a warm orange-yellow glow. Depending on the wattage used, a standard bulb will be brighter or dimmer. Warm white light is a type of LED bulb that’s been developed to copy the color temperature of incandescent light. Based on the Kelvin chart, this is often within 2000-3000K.
What is a cool white light bulb?
Cool white is a new variant of LED light that was also created not too long ago. It’s a very crisp white color that has a small amount of blue tint. This is rated between 3100-4500K, and is ideal and task-related lighting. You see it used in hospitals, offices, and places where details can be seen clearer in work-related places. Recently, it’s also ideal for decorative lighting in certain aspects.
Why warm white light is better for your eyes for reading?
It’s been proven that warm white light is perfect for reading. The color temperature has an appealing effect on white paper. It also gives paper less of a blinding effect, so reading the words is not a strain on your eyes. When reading in normal sunlight, the glare of the sun washes-out printed words making it harder to read as well. This is why it’s recommended to use warm white light, allowing your retinas to be relaxed while you read.
1. Blue light damage to your retinas
Blue light is a sad part of our society since we’re surrounded by electronic media that all emit blue light. This included computer screens, TVs, smartphones, and LED lights. While it won’t kill you, it can damage your retinas over time. Common symptoms include dry eyes and headaches. But it can lead to serious conditions if the level of blue light is too much. This is why the common complaint of cool white is brought up
2. Is cool white dangerous for your eyes?
LED bulbs don’t emit UV radiation despite the hype. The truth is that fluorescent lighting is more harmful to your eyes than LED light can. Despite the bluish tint from cool white, this light is considered healthy for your eyes. The controversy began from a recent French study that stated intense exposure would cause retinal damage. Actual damage comes from the flicker emitted by LED bulbs. Since cheaper bulbs flicker more often, these will be more hazardous to your eyes than anything else.
3. Macular degeneration and Cataracts
This is a condition that happens with age and over a long period. The blue light that comes from computer screens and mobile touchscreens is more intense than LED lighting. In the worst cases, computer-related media will damage your retinas and cause blindness over time. The same will happen if you spend a lot of time outside in daylight working conditions too. It’s less of a threat working under LED lighting since UV rays aren’t coming from them.
Eye diseases related to lighting
Your eyes can absorb UV rays with any kind of light. The worst kinds of lighting in a home or office are fluorescent, halogen, and even incandescent lighting. These types of light emit the largest amount of Infrared and UV light. This is why many new cases of eye damage are being reported lately. Macular degeneration, Cataracts, and Pterygium are all attributed to eye damage caused by these light sources. While Pterygium (Surfer’s Eye) is not cancerous, there has been a link to excessive UV damage that may be attributed to certain lights.
How to select the LED bulbs with warm white light?
Reviewing a chart on warm white LED bulbs is helpful for the purpose of aesthetics and preference. Since the spectrum is between 2000-3000K, you’ll have several choices within that range. The warmer the hue that is attractive to you also should have a certain amount of wattage so there is adequate light. Darker orange color hues may be good for the atmosphere, while the brighter warm white is perfect for lighting up a room.
Types of warm white light we can use at home
1. Recessed light
This type of lighting unit is usually beneath a ceiling panel so no light source is showing. Only when the light is turned on do you get a flood of light that pours out of these open holes. It’s a nice way to light large areas such as rooms or work areas.
2. Wall washer light
These lamps are especially effective at creating a dramatic wall of light effect. If done properly, you can create a stunning modern effect that looks good indoors and outdoors. Using color-changing LEDs will especially be impressive for the holidays or special occasions.
3. Ceiling fan bulbs
Every ceiling fan will include an optional light built-in somewhere. These can be swapped out with LED bulbs that reduce energy costs and have brighter lighting instead of incandescent bulbs. It also gives your ceiling fan a classic look using a warm white bulb.
4. Floor lamp
Any home deserves a classy floor lamp to give just the right amount of spotlight. These lamps are perfect for reading and using when you don’t want to use the overhead lights. Such as watching TV or lounging on the couch.
5. Chandelier
If you have the room to install a chandelier, it’s worth all the comments from friends and family. It also gives a touch of class and family elegance that gives your home the perfect look. Using warm white for these bulbs adds warmth like nothing else.
In our conclusion
We hope this gives you a healthy understanding of how warm white is better for your eyes. Not only to add more beauty to your home but for conditions making reading easier too. And you’ll rest easier knowing that your eyes won’t be at risk using LED light either.