"Warm light 60" means that this CFL provides the same
light as a 60-watt incandescent bulb. "Warm" indicates a color temperature between
2700-3000K.
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Brightness is a description of light output, which is measured in lumens (not watts).
Light bulb manufacturers include this information and the equivalent wattage right
on the packaging. Common terms are "soft white 60," "warm light 60," and "60 watt
replacement." Sometimes a diagram will show two images with an equal sign, as in
the packaging image to the right.
To save energy, find the bulbs with the light output you need, and then choose the
one with the lowest wattage. You can also look for a CFL that is labeled as equivalent
to the incandescent bulb you are replacing.
The color of light may also affect how bright a light appears, even if the lumens
are the same. Since most people are used to the soft yellowish glow from incandescent
light bulbs, CFLs that produce light closer to the color of daylight (color temperatures
above 3000K) may appear brighter because the color of the light is less yellow.
Learn more about color temperature.
For more detailed information about how you can reduce your energy consumption and
nurture the environment, visit the
Environmental Protection Agency.
Information courtesy of www.energystar.gov