Why Do People Still Use Incandescent Bulbs In Certain Fixtures

Despite widespread adoption of LED and CFL lighting, incandescent bulbs remain in use across homes, businesses, and specialty environments. While they are less energy-efficient and have shorter lifespans than modern alternatives, there are compelling reasons—ranging from light quality to fixture compatibility—why many people continue to choose incandescent bulbs for specific applications. From dimming performance to ambiance, thermal behavior to cost sensitivity, the persistence of incandescent lighting is not a relic of ignorance but often a deliberate, informed decision.

The Unique Light Quality of Incandescent Bulbs

One of the most frequently cited reasons for sticking with incandescent bulbs is the quality of light they produce. Incandescents emit a continuous spectrum of light that closely mimics natural sunlight, particularly during sunrise and sunset. This warm, full-spectrum glow renders colors more accurately and flatteringly than many LEDs, especially cheaper models that may have poor color rendering indexes (CRI).

In living rooms, dining areas, and bedrooms, where mood and atmosphere matter, incandescent lighting enhances skin tones and makes wood, fabric, and art appear richer and more authentic. Unlike some LEDs that can produce a slightly blue or harsh tint, incandescents offer a soft, yellowish-white light (typically 2700K–3000K) that feels inherently cozy.

“Incandescent light has a warmth that’s hard to replicate. It doesn’t just illuminate—it creates feeling.” — Daniel Ruiz, Lighting Designer & Architectural Consultant

Tip: For spaces where ambiance is key—like dining nooks or bedside lamps—consider using incandescent bulbs even if you’ve switched to LEDs elsewhere.

Compatibility with Dimmers and Older Fixtures

Many older homes and vintage lighting fixtures were designed with incandescent bulbs in mind. When paired with traditional dimmer switches, incandescents dim smoothly and consistently, maintaining their warm color temperature as brightness decreases. In contrast, many LED bulbs either flicker, buzz, or shift toward cooler tones when dimmed, unless specifically engineered for dimming compatibility.

This issue is particularly noticeable in chandeliers, wall sconces, and track lighting systems installed before 2010. Retrofitting these systems with compatible LED drivers and dimmers can be costly and technically complex. For homeowners and renters alike, replacing a $1 bulb is simpler—and often cheaper—than rewiring or upgrading an entire lighting circuit.

Feature	Incandescent Bulb	Standard LED Bulb
Dimming Performance	Smooth, warm dimming	May flicker or buzz; color shift common
Fixture Compatibility	Universal	May require compatible driver/dimmer
Heat Tolerance	Designed to handle heat buildup	Heat-sensitive; lifespan reduced in enclosed fixtures
Startup Time	Instant full brightness	Most instant, but some delay in cheaper models

Use in Enclosed or Heat-Sensitive Fixtures

It might seem counterintuitive, but incandescent bulbs are sometimes preferred in enclosed fixtures—not because they run cooler (they don’t), but because they are built to withstand heat. Many recessed can lights, glass-covered sconces, and outdoor-rated enclosures were originally designed for incandescent technology, which expects high internal temperatures.

LEDs, on the other hand, are sensitive to heat. Their electronic components degrade faster when trapped in poorly ventilated spaces. Even though LEDs generate less heat overall, their internal drivers can overheat in enclosed environments, leading to premature failure. Manufacturers often rate LEDs as “not suitable for fully enclosed fixtures,” creating a gap that incandescent bulbs still fill reliably.

This is especially true in older buildings where fixture upgrades aren’t feasible. A porch light or bathroom vanity with a sealed globe may work perfectly with an incandescent for years but kill multiple LED replacements prematurely.

Real-World Example: The Historic Home Dilemma

Sarah Thompson owns a 1920s Craftsman bungalow in Portland, Oregon. She upgraded her kitchen and office to LEDs but kept incandescent bulbs in her hallway’s original bronze sconces and dining room chandelier. “Every time I tried an LED in the sconces, it burned out within six months. The globes trap so much heat, and the dimmer is old. The incandescents last about a year—same as always. They’re cheap, they work, and they look right in the fixtures.”

For Sarah, switching isn’t just about function—it’s about preservation. The warm glow complements the woodwork and stained glass, and changing the lighting would alter the character of her home. Her solution? Use LEDs where efficiency matters most, and reserve incandescents for places where performance, aesthetics, and compatibility align.

Cold Weather and Outdoor Applications

In colder climates, incandescent bulbs can outperform LEDs in certain outdoor settings. While LEDs are generally more efficient, some models struggle in sub-freezing temperatures. Cold can delay startup times or reduce output in low-quality LEDs, especially in motion-sensor floodlights or garage fixtures.

Incandescent bulbs, by contrast, generate heat as a byproduct—which helps them operate reliably in freezing conditions. This makes them surprisingly effective in unheated garages, sheds, and exterior fixtures where consistent illumination is needed regardless of weather. Though less efficient, their reliability in extreme cold ensures they remain a pragmatic choice for seasonal or infrequently used outdoor lighting.

Tip: In unheated spaces like garages or barns, test LED performance in winter before fully committing. Consider keeping incandescents as backups.

Cost and Accessibility Factors

While LEDs save money over time, the upfront cost can be a barrier—especially for households on tight budgets or those needing multiple bulbs at once. A standard incandescent bulb costs as little as $0.50, while a quality dimmable LED can range from $3 to $8. For someone replacing six bulbs in a ceiling fixture, that’s a $3 vs. $24–$48 difference.

In rental properties, landlords often prioritize low initial costs over long-term savings. Tenants may also avoid investing in premium LEDs if they don’t plan to stay long-term. Additionally, in rural or underserved areas, access to a wide selection of specialty LEDs (like vintage-style filament LEDs or dimmable A19s) may be limited, making incandescents the only readily available option.

Checklist: When It Makes Sense to Use Incandescent Bulbs

• ✅ The fixture is enclosed and traps heat (e.g., glass domes, recessed cans)
• ✅ Paired with an older dimmer switch that causes LEDs to flicker
• ✅ Aesthetic match is critical (vintage fixtures, warm ambiance)
• ✅ Operating in very cold environments where LED startup is unreliable
• ✅ Budget constraints make low upfront cost a priority
• ✅ Fixture usage is infrequent (e.g., closet, attic, guest bathroom)
• ✅ Color rendering is essential (e.g., makeup vanities, art studios)

Regulatory Loopholes and Specialty Bulbs

While general-service incandescent bulbs have been phased out in many countries—including the U.S. under DOE regulations effective August 2023—several exemptions exist. These include appliance bulbs, rough service bulbs, shatter-resistant types, and bulbs under 40 watts or over 2,600 lumens. As a result, consumers can still legally purchase incandescent bulbs for specific purposes.

Specialty applications such as oven lights, refrigerator indicators, and heat lamps for reptile tanks rely on incandescent technology due to its resistance to vibration, moisture, and extreme temperatures. These niche uses ensure that incandescent production continues, preserving supply chains and consumer access.

Moreover, \"rough service\" incandescent bulbs—designed with reinforced filaments—are still used in industrial settings, ceiling fans, and garage door openers where vibrations would quickly destroy standard LEDs or CFLs. Their durability in high-movement environments makes them a go-to for contractors and maintenance crews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still buy incandescent bulbs legally?

Yes, but with restrictions. General-purpose incandescent bulbs (450–2,600 lumens) are banned in the U.S. as of August 2023. However, exempt categories like appliance bulbs, rough service bulbs, colored lamps, and three-way bulbs are still available for sale.

Are incandescent bulbs really that inefficient?

Yes. About 90% of the energy they consume is released as heat rather than light. A 60-watt incandescent produces roughly 800 lumens, while an equivalent LED uses only 8–10 watts for the same brightness. Over time, this inefficiency leads to higher electricity bills and greater environmental impact.

Why do some LEDs look “harsh” compared to incandescents?

Poor-quality LEDs often have lower CRI (Color Rendering Index) values, meaning they don’t display colors as naturally. Look for LEDs labeled “CRI 90+” and “2700K” for a warmer, more incandescent-like appearance. High-end filament LEDs now closely mimic the look and feel of traditional bulbs.

Step-by-Step Guide: Transitioning Wisely from Incandescent to Modern Lighting

1. Assess your fixtures: Identify which lights are used daily versus occasionally. Prioritize high-use areas (kitchen, office) for LED upgrades.
2. Test dimming compatibility: If you have dimmers, try one dimmable LED first. Watch for flickering, buzzing, or color shifts when dimmed.
3. Check enclosure ratings: Replace bulbs in open fixtures first. Avoid placing non-rated LEDs in sealed enclosures.
4. Evaluate light quality: Choose LEDs with 2700K color temperature and CRI 90+ for warmth and color accuracy.
5. Keep incandescents where they work best: Retain them in vintage fixtures, enclosed sconces, or cold environments until better alternatives prove reliable.
6. Monitor performance: Track how long LEDs last in different locations. Adjust your strategy based on real-world results.

Conclusion: Balancing Efficiency with Practicality

The continued use of incandescent bulbs isn’t about resistance to progress—it’s about matching the right tool to the job. While LEDs dominate in efficiency and longevity, incandescents still offer unmatched warmth, reliability in specific conditions, and seamless integration with legacy systems. Smart lighting choices aren’t about blanket replacements but thoughtful adaptation.

Homeowners, designers, and maintenance professionals who understand the strengths and limitations of each technology can create lighting schemes that balance energy savings, visual comfort, and functional reliability. Rather than treating incandescents as obsolete, we should recognize them as a specialized option—one that still earns its place in the modern world.

💬 What’s your experience with incandescent bulbs? Have you found a perfect replacement—or do you still rely on them in certain fixtures? Share your insights and help others make smarter lighting choices.