Lighting technology has changed significantly over the past decade and become much more energy efficient. Only a few years ago CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lights) were the darlings of new energy efficient lighting, and now even more efficient LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) have become less expensive and readily available. Since lighting accounts for 20% of the average American family's utility bill, there are significant savings to be had by replacing your light bulbs. Not only do CFLs and LEDs save energy and money, they also provide a better quality of light. Lighting technology has also improved enough to get warmer tones that you may have been used to with incandescent bulbs.

Even though lighting technologies have improved tremendously, it still pays to practice good ol' conservation. Turn lights off when you leave or when you don't need them.