You want it to be energy efficient as well. The fact is, new energy-efficient light bulbs can save money on your electric bill, while saving energy, too. Highly efficient compact fluorescent bulbs cost more than regular incandescent bulbs. However, their efficient use of electricity and long operating life can offset the initial pinch of the purchase price. These bulbs, which provide most home lighting, are used in products from nightlights to floodlights.
Incandescent bulbs use electricity to heat a filament until it glows white hot, producing light.
About 90 percent of the electricity used by incandescent bulbs is lost as heat. Incandescent spotlights and floodlights. The reflective coating on these bulbs helps direct and focus the light. Commonly known as spotlights or floodlights, these bulbs often are used in recessed ceiling fixtures or outdoors. They burn for about 2,000 hours.