Lighting

Incandescent versus fluorescent bulbs

• Although incandescent bulbs are used most frequently in the home, they aren't as energy efficient or as long lasting as fluorescent bulbs. While fluorescent bulbs may cost more to purchase, you save money in energy and replacement costs.
  
• Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents wherever practical. Compact fluorescents last 12 times longer and use only 1/3 the energy of incandescent bulbs.
  

Light output
Look for bulbs that deliver the most lumens (light output) at the lowest wattage. Try to get all the light output you can.

Long-life bulbs
Avoid using long-life bulbs. They are the least efficient of incandescent bulbs. They cost more and provide less light. Use them only in areas where bulbs are difficult to replace, such as high ceilings, hallways or stairs.

Wattage

• Use one higher-wattage bulb instead of several lower-wattage bulbs. One 100-watt bulb gives the same amount of light as two 60-watt bulbs, but uses 17% less energy. Just make sure you don't exceed the manufacturer's recommended wattage for the fixture.
• Keep bulbs and fixtures clean and free of dust. Dust absorbs light and reduces efficiency.
• Use light colors on walls, ceilings and floors to reduce lighting costs. Light-colored rooms reflect more light so you can use lower-wattage bulbs.
• In areas that don't need bright illumination, such as hallways or storage areas, use lower-wattage bulbs.  

Controls

Use dimmer controls, high/low switches or three-way bulbs to adjust the level of lighting to exactly what you need. Dimmers can help you save energy and increase bulb life, too.

Use timers or photocells to turn lights on at dusk and off at dawn. This creates an illusion of occupancy and provides a welcoming light in the evening without wasting electricity during daylight.

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