High-quality LED bulbs last 25,000 hours or more. At an average of five hours a day, 365 days a year, they can last for at least 14 years. You may find yourself having to look at the instructions on the package the next time you need to change one out.

Color rendering index (CRI) measures how well a lightbulb displays colors compared to sunlight. Incandescent bulbs set the standard with a score of 100. The latest LED products have a CRI of up to 90, making the light in your home look vivid and natural.

LEDs are inherently dimmable. That means you can turn down the lights for a romantic dinner at home or for an evening movie with the family. You'll save energy, as well.

Bulbs emit light in different tones, ranging from cool to warm. Warm (yellowish) light is great for your family room, while cool (bluish) light is better for performing tasks, such as in a workroom. LEDs cover the entire color range, so they can be used anywhere in your home or outdoors.

If you're looking to downsize your environmental footprint, switching to LEDs puts you on the right path. The lower energy use will reduce your household emissions. Also, LEDs contain no mercury, a hazardous substance found in other types of bulbs. This makes disposal simpler and easier on the planet.