Numbers on a light bulb - meaning?

dunroving

Am just fixing up things in preparation for my house, and took out the defunct bulb from my outdoor steps security light. The details printed on the bulb are:

GE Biax 2D (embossed on the central unit) and 16W 830 (printed on the glass part of the bulb)

The bulb has two pins, which clearly (to me) is important. I have found several similar bulbs that match everything except the "830" - so, I have found 827, 835 and 840. For example, this one on Amazon.

It looks similar - same overall shape, etc., although the central unit is a slightly different size (the bulb I am replacing is several years old, mind you).

It seems I should replace with another 16W bulb, to get similar light, and 2 pins (so it will fit). Does anyone know what the 830 refers to and whether that will make a difference in replacing the bulb?

Ant555

Its the 'colour' of the bulb - the 830 refers to warm white (quite soft) - the higher the numbers the more stark the lighting may appear - the lower/warmer numbers are softer.

https://www.ablamp.com/colour_temperature_chart.html

If its an outside light for security purposes then I would say you could definitely benefit from a higher number as the light will be more 'white'.

fwiw we have just replaced the flush fitting ceiling light bulbs similar to that one in the toilets at work with 'whiter' ones and it makes a heck of a difference!

hope this helps

DCFC79

Not seen bulbs like that before or maybe I have but not taken much notice lol. Keep your questions coming OP.

dunroving

Ant555 wrote: »

Its the 'colour' of the bulb - the 830 refers to warm white (quite soft) - the higher the numbers the more stark the lighting may appear - the lower/warmer numbers are softer.

https://www.ablamp.com/colour_temperature_chart.html

If its an outside light for security purposes then I would say you could definitely benefit from a higher number as the light will be more 'white'.

hope this helps

Grand, thank you! I may get a softer one (I think 827 is the lowest number I could find). It only lights up the steps up to my house, especially useful in winter when visitors are coming or leaving in the dark. I turn it on when I know they or coming, or as they leave.

My grumpy neighbour has complained before it keeps her awake, even though her bedroom is in the back, and she has a honking great street light outside her flat! Still, being a good neighbour, I will seek a softer light, now you have armed me with the correct information.

Off to Amazon!