The Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Using FEIT Electric LED Light Bulbs: Brighten Your Home Efficiently and Safely
Upgrading your home’s lighting to FEIT Electric LED light bulbs is one of the simplest and most impactful home improvements you can make. These bulbs offer superior energy efficiency, long-lasting performance, and excellent light quality compared to old incandescent or CFL bulbs, directly translating into significant savings on your electricity bills and reduced maintenance. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the practical knowledge needed to understand, select, and install the right FEIT Electric LED light bulbs for every room and purpose in your home, ensuring you get the best value, performance, and safety from your purchase.
Understanding the FEIT Electric Brand and Its Place in the Market
FEIT Electric is a family-owned American company with a long history in the lighting industry, dating back to 1978. Based in California, the company has built a reputation for innovation, particularly in the energy-efficient lighting sector. They were early adopters and promoters of CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) technology and have successfully transitioned to become a major player in the LED lighting market. Unlike some brands that manufacture a wide range of electronics, FEIT focuses specifically on lighting solutions. This specialization often translates into a deeper understanding of photometrics—the science of light—and product reliability.
When you choose FEIT Electric LED light bulbs, you are selecting from a brand that prioritizes rigorous testing and compliance with industry standards. Their products are widely available through major home improvement retailers, electrical suppliers, and online marketstores, making them accessible for both DIY homeowners and professional contractors. The brand offers a vast array of LED products, from standard replacement bulbs to smart lighting and specialty fixtures, but their core lineup of replacement LED bulbs is where most consumers begin their journey toward an efficient home.
The Fundamental Advantages of LED Technology
Before diving into FEIT’s specific offerings, it’s crucial to understand why LED technology itself is the modern standard. LED stands for Light Emitting Diode. It is a semiconductor device that emits light when an electrical current passes through it. This method of producing light is fundamentally different from heating a filament (incandescent) or exciting gas (CFL), and it comes with several inherent benefits.
The first and most advertised benefit is energy efficiency. FEIT Electric LED light bulbs use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs to produce the same amount of light. This efficiency is measured by comparing lumens (light output) to watts (energy input). For example, a 60-watt incandescent bulb might produce about 800 lumens. A comparable LED bulb from FEIT will produce the same 800 lumens but use only about 8 to 10 watts.
The second major advantage is longevity. A typical incandescent bulb lasts about 1,000 hours. A standard FEIT Electric LED light bulb is rated to last 15,000 to 25,000 hours or more. For the average household using a bulb 3 hours per day, that translates to over 15 years of service. This dramatically reduces the frequency and hassle of bulb replacements, especially in hard-to-reach places like ceiling fixtures or outdoor enclosures.
Third is durability and safety. LEDs are solid-state lights, meaning they have no fragile glass envelope or thin filament. They are much more resistant to shock and vibration. Furthermore, because they are so efficient, FEIT Electric LED light bulbs operate at a much lower temperature than incandescent bulbs. This reduces the risk of accidental burns or fire hazards, particularly in enclosed fixtures or near sensitive materials.
Decoding FEIT LED Bulb Specifications: What the Labels Mean
Walking down the lighting aisle or browsing online can be overwhelming due to the technical terminology. Here’s a breakdown of the key specifications you’ll find on FEIT Electric LED light bulb packaging, explained in plain language.
- Lumens (lm): This is the measure of brightness. Forget watts when thinking about brightness; think lumens. More lumens means a brighter light. For reference, a 60W incandescent is roughly 800 lumens, a 75W is about 1100 lumens, and a 100W is about 1600 lumens.
- Watts (W): On an LED bulb, this indicates energy consumption. A lower wattage for the same lumen output means higher efficiency. The "Watt Equivalence" (e.g., "60W Equivalent") tells you what traditional bulb this LED replaces in terms of brightness, not energy use.
- Color Temperature (Kelvin, K): This describes the color appearance of the light, from warm to cool.
- 2700K - 3000K: Soft White or Warm White. This is the cozy, yellowish light similar to old incandescents. Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas where relaxation is key.
- 3500K - 4000K: Bright White or Neutral White. A cleaner, whiter light that is energizing without being harsh. Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, home offices, and garages.
- 5000K - 6500K: Daylight. This light has a bluish-white tint, mimicking noon daylight. It promotes alertness and is best for task lighting in workshops, reading lamps, or display areas. It can feel too cold for general room lighting in homes.
- Color Rendering Index (CRI): This is a scale from 0 to 100 that measures a light source's ability to reveal the true colors of objects compared to natural light. A CRI of 80 or above is good for most homes. A CRI of 90+ is considered excellent and is preferred for areas like art studios, kitchens, and bathrooms where accurate color is important. Many FEIT Electric LED light bulbs now feature high CRI ratings.
- Dimmability: Not all LED bulbs are dimmable. You must check the packaging specifically for the word "Dimmable." Even dimmable LEDs require compatibility with your existing dimmer switch. Older dimmers designed for incandescent bulbs can cause LED bulbs to flicker, buzz, or not dim smoothly. FEIT often provides a list of compatible dimmers on their website or packaging.
- Base Type: This is the part that screws into the socket. The most common is the E26 (medium) base in North America. Smaller fixtures like chandeliers or night lights often use an E12 (candelabra) base. Outdoor floodlights might use an E39 (mogul) base. Always check your fixture's base before purchasing.
- Shape and Size: FEIT offers LEDs in all traditional shapes: A19 (standard lamp shape), BR30 (flood for recessed cans), PAR38 (outdoor flood/spot), G25 (globe), and ST64 (vintage Edison style), among others. Ensure the bulb's physical dimensions fit your fixture, especially enclosed globes or recessed housings.
A Detailed Walkthrough of FEIT's Core LED Bulb Product Lines
FEIT categorizes its bulbs to help consumers find the right product for their need. Here’s an in-depth look at their primary categories.
1. Standard Replacement A-Shape Bulbs (A19):
This is the workhorse of household lighting, the classic bulb shape for table lamps, floor lamps, and open ceiling fixtures. FEIT's lineup here is vast. You can choose from:
- Non-Dimmable & Dimmable Options: Basic models for simple on/off fixtures and advanced dimmable models for controlled lighting.
- Various Color Temperatures: From warm 2700K to bright daylight 5000K.
- Different Brightness Levels: Ranging from 450 lumens (40W equivalent) to 1600 lumens (100W equivalent).
- Special Features: Some include high CRI (90+) for superior color quality, or are specifically rated for enclosed fixtures, a crucial detail for sealed outdoor lights or glass dome ceiling lights where heat buildup can be an issue for some LEDs.
2. Dimmable Enhancements and Filament LEDs:
FEIT offers bulbs designed specifically for a superior dimming experience. These are engineered to work with a wider range of dimmer switches to minimize flicker and provide smooth dimming down to very low light levels. Their Vintage/Edison Style LED bulbs (ST64, G25 shapes) with visible filament-style LEDs combine the nostalgic look of old incandescents with modern efficiency and are often fully dimmable, making them perfect for bars, restaurants, and open fixtures in homes.
3. Reflector Bulbs (BR30, BR40, PAR20, PAR30, PAR38):
These bulbs have an internal reflector that directs light forward. They are used primarily in recessed can lighting (downlights) in kitchens, hallways, and living rooms, and in track lighting.
- BR (Bulged Reflector) bulbs provide a wide "flood" of light, ideal for general illumination from a recessed can.
- PAR (Parabolic Aluminized Reflector) bulbs offer a more focused "spot" or "narrow flood" beam, better for accent lighting on artwork or architectural features. PAR38 bulbs are the standard for outdoor floodlights. FEIT's PAR38 LEDs are available in both flood and spot beam angles, with options for dusk-to-dawn sensors or motion sensors built right into the bulb.
4. Specialty and Decorative Bulbs:
This category includes:
- Globe Bulbs (G25, G40): For vanity mirrors, pendant lights, and open decorative fixtures.
- Candelabra Bulbs (E12 base): For chandeliers, sconces, and small accent lamps. Available in flame-tip shapes for a traditional look.
- Tube LEDs (T8, T10): Direct replacements for fluorescent tubes in garage and shop lights. They often offer better light quality, instant-on operation (no flickering), and can work with or without the existing ballast (ballast-bypass or direct-wire).
- Appliance Bulbs: Specifically designed to withstand the vibrations and temperature fluctuations inside refrigerators, ovens, and microwaves.
5. Smart LED Bulbs:
FEIT has a robust line of smart bulbs that connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. These can be controlled with a smartphone app, voice commands (via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit), and programmed for schedules, scenes, and automation. The key advantage is the ability to change the color temperature (from warm white to cool white) and, in color models, the full RGB color of the light, all without changing the physical bulb. This is a significant step beyond standard dimming.
Installation, Compatibility, and Troubleshooting
Installing a FEIT Electric LED light bulb is as simple as screwing in any old bulb: turn off the power, screw it in until snug (do not over-tighten), and turn the power back on. However, a few areas require extra attention.
Dimmer Switch Compatibility: This is the most common issue. If you experience flickering, buzzing, or limited dimming range with a dimmable FEIT LED, the dimmer switch is likely the culprit. The best solution is to replace the old dimmer with an LED-compatible dimmer switch. Leading brands like Lutron and Leviton have specific models designed for smooth LED control. Consulting an electrician is recommended for switch replacement.
Enclosed Fixture Ratings: If a bulb will be used in a fully enclosed glass or plastic fixture, you must select a bulb that is rated for enclosed fixtures. Standard LEDs can overheat in these confined spaces, which can shorten their lifespan. FEIT clearly marks bulbs with this rating on the box.
Outdoor Use: Ensure the bulb is rated for damp locations (protected outdoor areas like covered porches) or wet locations (exposed to rain and sprinklers). Most FEIT PAR38 floodlights and specific outdoor models carry these ratings.
Flickering in Non-Dimmed Circuits: If a non-dimmable LED flickers, it could indicate a loose connection in the socket or circuit, or incompatibility with a photoelectric eye or timer. Ensure the bulb is screwed in tightly and try it in a different fixture to isolate the problem.
Calculating Your Energy Savings and Return on Investment
The financial argument for switching to FEIT Electric LED light bulbs is compelling. Let’s create a clear example.
Scenario: Replacing ten 60-watt incandescent bulbs used 5 hours per day with 10-watt FEIT LED equivalents.
- Incandescent Annual Energy Cost:
- Total Watts: 10 bulbs * 60W = 600W
- Daily Energy: 600W * 5 hours = 3,000 Watt-hours (3 kWh)
- Annual Energy: 3 kWh * 365 days = 1,095 kWh
- Cost (@
0.15 per kWh): 1,095 kWh *0.15 = $164.25
- LED Annual Energy Cost:
- Total Watts: 10 bulbs * 10W = 100W
- Daily Energy: 100W * 5 hours = 500 Watt-hours (0.5 kWh)
- Annual Energy: 0.5 kWh * 365 days = 182.5 kWh
- Cost (@
0.15 per kWh): 182.5 kWh *0.15 = $27.38
- Annual Savings:
164.25 -27.38 = $136.87
The initial purchase price of ten quality LED bulbs might be 50-80. This investment pays for itself in well under a year, and then continues to save you over $130 every single year thereafter for the next decade or more. Furthermore, you avoid the cost and hassle of buying and replacing 5-10 incandescent bulbs per year (as they burn out).
Addressing Common Questions and Concerns
- Can I use FEIT LED bulbs with my existing fixtures? Yes, in the vast majority of cases. Just match the base type (E26, E12, etc.) and ensure the bulb's shape and size fit physically. Check for enclosed fixture or outdoor ratings as needed.
- Do LED bulbs contain mercury? No. Unlike CFLs, FEIT Electric LED light bulbs contain no mercury, making their disposal safer and easier.
- Why is there a delay when I turn on some LED bulbs? Most FEIT LEDs turn on instantly. A very slight, imperceptible delay might occur in some models, but it is not like the slow warm-up of old CFLs. Smart bulbs may take a few seconds to connect to the network.
- Can I use LEDs in ceiling fans? Yes, but choose bulbs rated for enclosed fixtures if the fan has a light kit with a glass globe, and ensure they are rated for the slight vibration. Standard A19 LEDs generally work fine.
- What about the warranty? FEIT Electric typically offers a long-term warranty on their LED bulbs (often 3, 5, or even 10 years). Keep your receipt as proof of purchase. If a bulb fails prematurely under normal use, you can contact FEIT customer service for a replacement.
Safety, Quality Certifications, and Environmental Impact
FEIT Electric designs its products to meet strict safety standards. Look for these marks on the packaging:
- UL Listed or ETL Listed: This means the product has been tested by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (Underwriters Laboratories or Intertek) and meets specific safety standards. This is a critical mark to look for to ensure electrical safety.
- Energy Star Certification: While not all FEIT bulbs are Energy Star certified, many are. This government-backed certification guarantees high efficiency, quality of light (color rendering, consistency), and a minimum lifespan. It is a reliable indicator of a top-tier product.
- RoHS Compliance: Indicates the product restricts the use of certain hazardous substances, making it more environmentally friendly.
From an environmental standpoint, the long life and low energy use of FEIT Electric LED light bulbs mean significantly less waste in landfills and reduced carbon emissions from power plants. Their lower operating temperature also reduces the energy burden on home cooling systems in the summer.
Purchasing Guide and Final Recommendations
When you're ready to purchase, follow this checklist:
- Determine the Fixture: Is it a lamp, recessed can, enclosed porch light, or chandelier?
- Check the Base: Unscrew an old bulb and note the base type (E26, E12, etc.).
- Decide on Brightness: How many lumens do you need? (800lm for a bedside lamp, 1100lm for a kitchen ceiling).
- Choose Color Temperature: Warm White (2700K-3000K) for cozy spaces, Bright White (4000K) for task areas, Daylight (5000K+) for workshops.
- Identify Special Needs: Dimmable? Enclosed Fixture? Damp/Wet Location? High CRI?
- Buy from Reputable Retailers: Home improvement stores, established electrical suppliers, or authorized online sellers to ensure you get genuine products and can leverage warranties.
Conclusion
Making the switch to FEIT Electric LED light bulbs is a straightforward decision with immediate and long-term benefits. You will notice a difference in your home's light quality and ambiance, and you will see a positive impact on your energy bills from the very first month. By understanding the basic specifications—lumens, color temperature, dimmability, and special ratings—you can confidently choose the perfect bulb for every socket in your house. FEIT’s broad product range, focus on quality and safety, and proven track record make their bulbs a reliable and smart choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home lighting to a more efficient, sustainable, and beautiful standard. Start with the most frequently used fixtures and experience the advantages for yourself.