LED lightbulbs last longer and use less energy than their incandescent and fluorescent counterparts.

Light emitting diodes, otherwise known as LEDs, have come a long way since their invention in 1962. The general phase-out of incandescent lights has led to a rapid increase in both the quality and affordability of LED bulbs. Consider these factors when choosing a bulb:

• LED bulbs use less energy than their incandescent or fluorescent counterparts. The energy or watts used is not directly correlated with the amount of light they produce. Choose an LED bulb based on lumens rather than watts. To compare: 40-watt incandescent bulbs produce 450 lumens of light, 60-watt bulbs produce 800 lumens and 100-watt bulbs produce 1,600 lumens.

• LED lights come in a virtual rainbow of colors. The colors we see can be measured in Kelvins. The yellow glow produced by a standard incandescent light is duplicated by a LED bulb whose light temperature falls in the 2,700-3,200 Kelvin range. The higher the Kelvin, the warmer and whiter the light will be.

• LED light bulbs are more expensive than their incandescent or fluorescent counterparts, but they use less energy and last longer. A LED bulb will use one sixth the energy and last 25 times longer than its 60 watt incandescent equivalent.

• For the most part, LED bulbs are dimmable, but not all bulbs will work with all dimmers. Choose a bulb that is marked “dimmable.” If the bulb does not dim properly, consider updating the old dimmer switch to one that is compatible with LED bulbs.

• LED bulbs do not have a way of dispersing the heat they produce. The life expectancy of a LED bulb is directly related to its design for dispersing heat. Bulbs with a longer life expectancy have more elaborate means of dispersing heat and are therefore more expensive.

• When LED bulbs are used in tightly enclosed spaces, they are unable to disperse heat effectively. This dramatically reduces the bulb’s life expectancy. Choose an enclosed rated LED bulb for use in enclosed light fixtures. For recessed or canned light fixtures, use a LED retrofit kit rather than a LED bulb.

— Have a home improvement question for the Fix-It Chick? Email it to Linda Cottin at features@ljworld.com.