---
title: "What Is CRI? Electrical Glossary | Daniel Electric"
description: "CRI, the color rendering index, rates how true colors look under a light source compared with an ideal or natural light."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/cri
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Lighting

# CRI

CRI, the color rendering index, rates how true colors look under a light source compared with an ideal or natural light.

The Department of Energy says CRI is a measure of light quality, with a higher value indicating a better light source. ENERGY STAR-qualified bulbs must have a CRI of 80 or greater. A low CRI can make skin, paint and food look dull or off.

CRI matters most where color counts, such as kitchens, retail and offices. Check the package for CRI along with [color temperature](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/color-temperature) and [lumens](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/lumen). See [LED lighting installation](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/led-lighting-installation).

[Daniel Electric can helpLED lighting installation](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/led-lighting-installation)

## Related terms

-   [Color temperature](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/color-temperature)
-   [Lumen](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/lumen)
-   [LED](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/led)
-   [Recessed lighting](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/recessed-lighting)

## Sources

1.  [U.S. Department of Energy FEMP: Purchasing Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs](https://www.energy.gov/cmei/femp/purchasing-energy-efficient-light-bulbs)

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## Need an electrician in Southlake?

Call and tell us what is going on. A photo of the panel label or the problem helps us come prepared. Quotes on new installations are free.

[Call (817) 481-8606](tel:+1-817-481-8606)[Get a quote](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact)

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