Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

Lighting choices save you money

Lighting choices save you money

The average US household dedicates approximately 5% of its energy budget to lighting. According to Energy.gov, replacing your home’s five most frequently used light fixtures or bulbs with energy efficient models can save $75 each year. Using timers and motion sensors will save you even more money by reducing the amount of time lights are on but not being used.

There are many energy-efficient lighting to choose form. The most popular light bulbs available are halogen incandescents, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Although they are more expensive than traditional incandescent bulbs, They use less energy therefore they save you money.

Halogen incandescent (also called energy-saving incandescent) contain a capsule that holds gas around a filament. This increases the bulb’s efficiency by about 25%, helping it to last about three times longer than traditional incandescent light bulbs. They come in a wide range of shapes and colors and can be used with dimmers.

Energy-Saving Incandescent Light Bulbs

Energy-Saving Incandescent Light Bulbs

CFL bulbs uses 75% less energy and the last about 10 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. A typical CFL can pay for itself in energy savings in less than 9 months. It’s important to note that they contain a minuscule amount of mercury, therefore they should be recycled, not thrown away.

Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLS)

Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLS)

LED bulbs offer similar light quality to traditional incandescents. They last 25 times as long, and use even less energy than CFLs. They are available in a variety of colors, and some can be used with dimmers while some offer convenient features such as daylight and motion sensors. LEDs work well indoors and outdoors because of their durability and performance in cold environments.

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDS).

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDS).

Do this and save!

  • I you are planning to remodel your space, consider using recessed light fixtures or “cans” which are rated for contact with insulation and are air tight (ICAT rated – Insulation Contact Air Tight).
  • If you are replacing incandescent bulbs from recessed light fixtures, it is important to use energy-efficient bulbs that are rated for that purpose. For example, the heat buildup in downlights will significantly shorten the life of spiral CFLs.
  • Installing controls such as timers and photocells save electricity by turning lights off when not in use. Dimmers save electricity when used to lower light levels.
  • Keep your curtains or shades open to use daylighting instead of turning on lights.