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Energy Efficient Lighting
A home's lighting system is both a large user of electrical energy
(lighting consists of about 10% of your home energy bill) and is a major
source of internal heat. Increasing your lighting efficiency is one
of the fastest ways to decrease your energy bills.
Compact
Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Recent technology has improved energy efficient lighting considerably with compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs. CFL bulbs have a phosphorus coating on the inner surface that converts UV energy into light.
Overall, CFLs use about 25 percent the amount of energy than regular incandescent light bulbs. By switching from a 100-watt incandescent bulb to a 26- or 28-watt CFL bulb you can save over 70 watts worth of energy and last up to 10 times longer. Also, because more of the energy of a fluorescent bulb is converted into light and less into heat, you are also saving on air-conditioning costs.
How
to choose the right compact fluorescent bulb
Compact fluorescents cost a bit more initially but the long-term savings
offset the initial difference in price.
There are 3 things to look for when selecting the right fluorescent
bulb for your needs:
1. Lumens- lumens measure light output, watts measure
energy use. Bulb efficiency is measure by lumens per watt (LPW), calculated
by dividing lumens by watts. The higher the LPW, the more light received
for the energy used.
2. CRI- color rendering index measures the perceived
color of objects under artificial light. The higher the number, the
more natural and vibrant colors will appear. Bulbs with a CRI of 80
or above are acceptable for everyday residential use.
3. CCT- color correlated temperature measures how "warm"
or "cool" a light seems. A low CCT- below 3100 K- is a warm
white light.
Always compare brands for price, lumens, watts, CRI,
and CCT. Be sure to read the label and see where the
light can be used. Many are made for specific fixtures such as recessed cans, dimmer switches, or outdoor fixtures.
Outdoor lighting
Energy-saving bulbs are available for outdoor use as well. Again, always be sure to check the label to make sure the bulb and fixture are designed for outdoor use. Determine what activities will be happening in the lighted area and how much light you will need. Studies have shown that lower lighting reduces glare and helps homeowners to see their yards better at night than bright "security lights" which create deeper shadows and more hiding places.
- Motion sensors will turn the light on when movement is detected. In addition to saving energy, there is the added benefit of alerting you to activity in the area.
- Timers will automatically turn lights on and off according to the schedule you set.
- Photocell units respond to changes in natural light levels and will switch the lights on at dusk and off at dawn.
When
changing lighting