What is CRI and Why is it Important When Selecting LED Lighting?

LED lighting is becoming increasingly popular due to its many benefits. However, one important factor to consider when choosing LED lighting is the Color Rendering Index (CRI).

CRI measures how accurately a light source renders the colors of objects. A higher CRI means that the light source will render colors more accurately, making objects appear more true to life.

CRI is important in LED lighting because it can affect the overall appearance of a space, the way people look, and productivity and well-being.

A light source with a low CRI can make colors appear dull, washed-out, or even distorted. This can be especially noticeable in spaces where color accuracy is important, such as art galleries, museums, and retail stores.

A light source with a low CRI can also make skin tones appear unnatural or even sickly. This can be a problem in spaces where people are frequently seen, such as offices, hospitals, and schools.

Studies have shown that people who work or live in spaces with high CRI lighting report feeling more alert, productive, and comfortable.

For these reasons, it is important to choose LED lighting with a high CRI. A CRI of 80 or higher is generally considered to be good, while a CRI of 90 or higher is considered to be excellent.

Here are some industries where CRI is particularly important:

• Medical: In the medical field, accurate color rendering is essential for things like diagnosing skin conditions, performing surgery, and reading medical charts.

• Retail: In retail, CRI is important for accurately displaying products and making them look their best. This is especially important in stores that sell clothing, jewelry, and other items that are highly dependent on color.

• Foodservice: In the foodservice industry, CRI is important for making food look its most appetizing. This can lead to increased sales and customer satisfaction.

Overall, CRI is an important factor to consider when choosing LED lighting. By choosing a light source with a high CRI, you can ensure that colors are rendered accurately, people look their best, and productivity and well-being are improved.