There are several types of lighting, each with a different purpose and effect to consider when updating the lighting scheme in a home. How a room is used makes a big difference in the kind of lighting that will work best.

Ambient or general lighting is the overall or background lighting in a home and should be evenly dispersed without glare. The colors and textures of walls, ceilings and floors can affect lighting as well, since light plays off certain colors to vary the effect. As a general rule, reflecting surfaces should not be too dark, ceilings should be a light color, regardless of texture, and walls should be only slightly darker than ceilings.

Local lighting is designed for specific tasks such as reading, cooking and sewing. Accent lighting also can be used to pinpoint or bathe a particular area in light.

The kitchen is often the most frequented room in the house, and cooking requires a well-lit area. Kitchens may require both general and local lighting. For general lighting, luminous ceiling light is ideal. Fluorescent light fixtures placed under cabinets are energy efficient and provide bright light without shadows.

The bathroom is another room that needs bright lighting, so fluorescent lights are effective in this room as well.

Although overhead lighting may be sufficient for bedrooms, many people prefer several table lamps with switches by the door and on the lamp itself for easy accessibility. Adjustable lamps are good for reading and can be mounted on a bedside table or on the wall above the bed.

Versatile lighting in the family room makes any activity possible. Lamps that hang from the ceiling with adjustable height or pivotal ceiling fixtures are options. A ceiling fan lamp is a great combination of air and light, especially in a commonly used room. Artwork can be displayed more prominently with spot lighting using specially designed art lights that attach to the frame of the picture. Decorative corners with knick-knacks or planters also can be brought into sharper focus with spot lighting. Wall sconces work beautifully to make hallways decorative and more interesting.

Since energy efficiency often is a concern, knowing which types of lighting save energy is useful. The most efficient lighting source is fluorescent, using 75 percent less energy and lasting up to 10 times longer than other types of lighting. Another tip for saving energy is to use motion-sensor lights for areas outside the home, such as near the garage or back porch.

In addition to energy efficiency, proper lighting is essential in setting the right mood when selling a home. A professional Realtor can help evaluate lighting needs as part of the overall effort to make the best impression on potential buyers.

Information provided in this column is presented by the Realtor members of the Silicon Valley Association of Realtors at www.silvar.org. Send questions on any topic to jnewton@jnpr.com.