Lighting Residential Energy Efficiency Lighting Lighting accounts for only 5 percent to 10 percent of total energy use in most homes. Types of Lighting Incandescent lighting is very inefficient. Much of the electricity use is changed into heat instead of light, which shortens the bulb's life. These bulbs are the most common type used in residential lighting. Compact fluorescent lighting became available in the early 1980s.
Compact fluorescents save money compared to incandescents, but they cost more to buy.
Many incandescent bulbs can be replaced with compact fluorescent bulbs. However, because of their larger size, some fixtures cannot be retrofitted. Compact fluorescents have good color rendition and don't flicker or make noise. You may notice some do not light instantly and may be slow starting in cold temperatures. They can be used in three-way fixtures but will operate only on two of the three settings and provide one light level.