Winter is a time when people want to spend more time indoors, surrounded by the people they love in a warm and comfortable environment. For many, conserving energy is a priority throughout the year, even during the winter when utility bills tend to rise. The following tips are offered to help homeowners achieve the warm, welcoming lighting that they desire, while also reducing energy use.
Choose Light Fixtures Carefully
Simple math holds that a fixture that has multiple lights will use more energy than one with a single light source. Make thoughtful choices about the fixtures you select. Very often, the desired light output can be achieved with only one light, versus several in the same fixture. Even when a single incandescent bulb is replaced by several low-wattage bulbs, the result will still be increased energy usage.
Consider Using Lamps Instead of Overhead Lighting
Overhead lighting certainly has its place, such as in rooms where even and bright illumination is needed. However, in many areas of your home, lamps can provide a softer, more inviting source of light. Even better, there are lamps available in a multitude of styles and sizes, making it easy to find an option that suits your taste and decor. Some lamps are designed to softly light a larger portion of a room, while others provide directional or targeted light in a particular area.
Install Dimmer Switches
Having the ability to dim the lights provides homeowners with options when it comes to setting the mood of any given room. This is a great option for those who want the flexibility that comes with being able to select a warm, intimate level of light for a dinner party, while also having the ability to turn the lights to full strength to clean up afterward. Dimmers also help to extend the life of certain types of energy-efficient bulbs.
Maximize the Power of Natural Light
One great way to reduce power use is to harness natural daylight whenever possible. For those who are building a new home or completing major renovations, consider implementing skylights or downlights into the construction plans. Doing so will cut down on the need to use interior lights during many times of the day.
Small Tips for Big Results
It may seem like the obvious answer, but turning off lights when they are not in use can have a significant impact on monthly energy costs. Be aware of areas of your home where lights tend to be left on longer than necessary and involve the whole family in making greener choices when it comes to turning off lights when possible.
Switch to LED Lighting
Transitioning from incandescent bulbs to LED lighting can make a big difference in energy expenses. The statistics are impressive; experts believe that LEDs use between 25 and 80 percent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. Even better, LEDs last anywhere from 3 to 25 times longer than incandescents. Those numbers mean that making the switch will pay off in a relatively short period of time.
At Northern Lighting, we offer a wide range of options when it comes to reducing energy use while creating a warm and inviting feel in your home. We welcome you to come in today to learn more about our products and services, and to begin saving money on your energy use.
