Have you seen the new lighting fact label? You probably will the next time you’re shopping for light bulbs. You’d better know the difference between a watt and a lumen. We’ve got a quick primer for you so you’ll be ready!

Watt: a measurement of how much electrical power a device uses. The “old” way of buying a light bulb.

Lumen: a measurement of light output or brightness. The “new” way of buying a light bulb.

Here’s an example for you… a 60-watt incandescent bulb produces 800 lumens. If you want to replace a 60-watt bulb in a similar but more energy-efficient way, you will look for a CFL, halogen, or LED that produces 800 lumens, not something that uses 60-watts.

Also on the new label will be estimated energy costs, estimated bulb life, and whether or not the bulb contains mercury.