Lighting
Modern lighting technology saves money, energy and extends the length of the bulb
Changing to compact fluorescents might be the simplest and best things you can do to start a sustainable future. When you replace conventional light bulbs with ENERGY STAR quality bulbs you help preserve energy resources and reduce carbon dioxide emissions that are tied to global warming.
Switch from incandescent bulbs to compact fluorescent bulbs - There is no longer any excuse for not using compact florescent bulbs. They are more efficient, 75 percent less energy to produce the same amount of light, and not much more expensive than conventional bulbs. Considering they also last 10 times longer as well the difference in cost shouldn't matter. So get over the up front costs and start thinking long term.
- Lighting controls - By controlling the timing or intensity of your lighting you can be free from having to remember to turn lights on and off and save energy and money.
- Timers are great for vacations but also for hard to reach plugs and lights that need to turn on at certain times of the day such as dusk.
- Photocells help evening lights on as it gets dark and off in the morning. This can create a house that feels warm and inviting in winter.
- Three-way bulbs are the most efficient way to use an incandescent bulb because they can be used in multiple ways. Dimmed lights to medium to high lights.
- Motion sensors have most often been used outdoors for security but are great for basements, work rooms, closets - if your hands are full a motion sensing light is helpful.
- Dimmer switches and multi stage lighting work well setting a mood as well as saving energy. Set the switch to the desired level and turn off and on to that level with the off/on switch.
Stop heat loss by recessed lighting
Light fixtures set into the ceiling often waste heat by leaking air into the floor above. Insulate around the fixtures with fiberglass wrap to prevent this loss of air. Be sure to read the fixture label to ensure it is designed to be in direct contact with any type of insulation without causing a fire hazard. Then lay insulation right up against such fixture or around the "can".
