Incandescent, compact fluorescent (CFL), halogen, and light-emitting diode (LED) are the most common light bulb types for home use. However, each type has distinct features, pros, and cons, making selection challenging.
We’ll make it less complicated for you. After reading this article, you’ll know which light bulb is best for every room.
Most Common Light Bulb Types for Home Use
Nowadays, light bulbs are not only for brightening dark spaces at home. With many bulb types available, you can easily pick one to style a room and create the perfect ambience.
Having many options is good, but it also makes selection harder. So, as professional electricians, we made a list you can refer to when you need to replace some bulbs or remodel a space.
1. Incandescent Bulbs
These traditional bulbs generate a warm amber or yellow glow that works well with dimmers. They emit low-level brightness that suits smaller rooms.
Compared with other types of light bulbs, incandescent lights are the cheapest. However, they are also the least energy-efficient, with a lifespan of 1000 to 1500 hours.
Because of their poor cost-efficiency, Australia is gradually phasing incandescent bulbs out of production.
| PROS | CONS | BEST FOR |
| Inexpensive to buy and produce | Short lifespan | Small spaces |
| Made of non-toxic materials | Energy inefficient | Specialty use like oven lights |
2. Compact Fluorescent (CFL) Bulbs
CFL bulbs can produce a wide range of colours. They are also versatile since you can use them in houses or workplaces.
They are cheaper than LED lights and have a longer lifespan than incandescent bulbs. This type is also more energy-efficient than halogens and incandescents.
CFLs take some time to warm up to full brightness, though. Also, they often do not suit spaces with smaller light fittings. Extreme temperature and frequent on/off use can wear them out faster, too.
While recyclable, CFLs contain small amounts of mercury, so carefully handle and dispose of them once they burn out.
| PROS | CONS | BEST FOR |
| More energy-efficient | Sensitive to frequent use and extreme heat or cold | Large spaces like basements and kitchens |
| More affordable than LED lights | Contain some mercury | Workplaces |
3. Halogen Bulbs
Halogen lights are the levelled-up incandescents. They are cheap to buy and more energy-efficient. These compact bulbs also emit a clear, white light, simulating high-noon daylight.
They work best in directional or downlights, pendant or recessed lights, and under-cabinet lighting. Halogens also suit ceilings and outdoor spaces.
Out of all the light bulb types for home use, halogens have the shortest lifespan. They also heat up faster than other options, so keep them away from fire hazards. It’s advisable to wear gloves when changing them, especially when they become too hot.
| PROS | CONS | BEST FOR |
| More energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs | Shortest lifespan | Outdoors spaces and ceilings |
| Clear, white light | Get warm too quickly | Under-cabinet and recessed lighting |
4. Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Bulbs
Despite their higher cost, LED bulbs are the most in-demand lighting technology today because of their energy efficiency and bright light. LEDs have the longest lifespan compared with other options, lasting 15,000 to 50,000 hours.
They also generate little to no heat and do not contain mercury.
Homeowners also have the option to buy fixtures with built-in LED lights. However, switching to LED technology can be difficult due to incompatibility issues.
Nonetheless, long-lasting LED bulbs are perfect for hard-to-reach places in the home. Some LED products also support smart home lighting for automated control and remote access.
| PROS | CONS | BEST FOR |
| Most energy-efficient option | Expensive | Hard-to-reach places |
| Longest lifespan | Compatibility and voltage sensitivity issues | Mostly any area in the home |
Other Factors to Consider When Buying Light Bulbs for Your Home
Picking the best lighting solution for your home doesn’t stop from the bulb type. If you read the product packaging, you’ll see other vital specifications to consider before buying.
Here’s a quick rundown.
Watts and Lumens
These suggest energy use and how bright your light bulb will be. The higher the wattage and lumens value, the brighter the light. Your choice mainly depends on the size of the room and the usual activities that take place in the area:
| AREA | BRIGHTNESS REQUIREMENT (per square metre) |
| Living room, bedroom, and hallways | 300 to 400 lumens |
| Kitchen, bathrooms, and workspaces | 400 to 600 lumens |
| Gardens, walkways, and similar outdoor spaces | 50 to 300 lumens |
This table is a rough guide to help you decide how bright your light bulb should be. However, you can always choose a bulb with higher or lower lumens based on your preference.
Shape
The shape of your light bulb does not affect its brightness. However, it indicates the direction or distribution of the light it emits. For example:
- Traditional bulbs suit floor lamps, ceiling lights, and desk lamps
- Spiral bulbs suit most light fixtures as they emit light from their ends and side
- Candle or bullet bulbs suit smaller spaces, wall sconces, and chandeliers
- Downlights suit large spaces that need good or focal lighting, like kitchens
- Globe bulbs work like traditional ones but are more decorative and suitable for pendant lights
Colour temperature
The colour temperature represents the appearance of the light produced by the bulb.
You will see this factor in the packaging as kelvins (K), usually between 1000 and 10,000. Lower kelvins mean more yellow light, while higher kelvins mean whiter or bluer lights.
Generally, you choose:
- 1000K to 2600K for soft, ambient lighting (e.g., table and floor lamps)
- 2600K to 3000K for cosy, comfortable lighting (e.g., bedrooms, living areas)
- 3000K to 5000K for bright lighting (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms, offices)
- 5000K or more for outdoor and security lighting
Bulb Base
Before buying a light bulb, check its base to ensure it matches the socket. Light bulb bases are the bottom part of the globe that you plug in or screw into the fitting.
Some of the most common types of bulb bases include:
- Screw type that fits into the socket by twisting
- Bayonet type that fits into the socket with a twist lock
- Bi-pin type that clicks into the socket with a twist lock
Note that bulb bases also come in various sizes.
Ask Your Local Electrician for Your Lighting Needs
Understanding the different types of light bulbs for home use is one way to make the most of the lighting products you buy. Hopefully, this short guide will help you make the right choices the next time you need a light replacement.
For more guidance, consult lighting professionals and electricians like us. Contact SBH Electrical on 0418 390 046 or email us at info@sbhelectrical.com.au for recommendations, repairs, or installation services.