Choosing the right light bulbs, and light fittings and then using your lighting correctly – by turning lights off when you’re not using them and using natural light wherever possible – will make your home more comfortable, and energy-efficient and save you money on energy bills.
On this article:
- Choose the right lights
- Choose the right light fittings
- Turn lights off when they’re not in use
- Employ Tactical task lighting
- Use natural light wherever possible
- Light bulb saver app
- Install Dimmers
- Keep light bulbs and fixtures clean
#1. Choose the right lights
LEDs and CFLs are the most efficient forms of lighting
Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) will cost you far less to run than halogen and other incandescent lights. A new bulb can produce the same amount of brightness (measured in lumens) as a traditional bulb using far less electricity (Watts).
Visit the Victorian Energy Saver website for information about lighting programs that can help you be more energy efficient.
The cost of running light is directly related to the wattage of the light globe or lamp
The higher the wattage, the higher the running cost. Reduce your power bills by switching to LEDs and CFLs throughout your home, and replacing halogen lights. Use the Light Bulb Saver app to identify the best light bulbs to replace incandescent and halogen bulbs.
#2. Choose the right light fittings
Using downlights rather than pendant or fluorescent fittings will mean you need to install more lights, resulting in higher energy use and running costs. Plan energy-efficient lighting to save energy and money.
#3. Turn lights off when they’re not in use
The longer your lights are left on, the higher your running costs will be. Switch lights off when they’re not in use, to keep your lighting energy costs down.
Looking to get more efficient lighting?
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#4. Employ Tactical task lighting
Lighting a painting, illuminating a staircase, or installing a reading light at your bedside; task lighting can be just as useful as main overhead ambient lighting in your effort to save energy and reduce your utility bill.
Installing useful and practical task lighting allows you to use a fraction of the energy of overhead lighting while still achieving satisfactory illumination of your space. Consider a reading light for evening convenience or a picture light to illuminate your favourite piece of art.Â
#5. Use natural light wherever possible
The size and orientation of your windows will affect the amount of sunlight entering your home. West, east and north-facing windows tend to be exposed to sunlight, while south-facing windows receive almost no direct sunlight. If you are planning a renovation, consider orienting your living areas and windows to the north, and rooms where you spend less time to the south. This will take advantage of the sun, keeping these rooms warm, light and bright.Â
#6. Light bulb saver app
The Light Bulb Saver App identifies the best light bulbs to replace incandescent and halogen bulbs and can help you calculate your savings by switching light bulbs. It also provides tips about choosing the right lighting for each room in your house. Download the free app from iTunes or Google Play.
#7. Install Dimmers
Dimming technology continues to advance and consumers that adopt this trend in their home or office often see benefits to both quality of life and their utility bill. Besides the obvious energy savings of dimming your lights and thus using less wattage, dimmers also extend the life of your light bulb, providing security for your investment in quality, energy-efficient light bulbs.
# 8. Keep light bulbs and fixtures clean
An oldie but goodie. Dust and particulates can keep your bulbs and fixtures from utilizing their full available illumination potential. Wiping bulbs with a soft, dry cloth using low pressure will help your bulbs’ efficiency over time and help return their original luminosity. Make sure that all electrical switches are off and bulbs are removed from their sockets before cleaning for best results.Â
Extra tip: Take advantage of the Victorian Energy Upgrades Program!Â
Although CFLs and LEDs can be more expensive to purchase initially, they will save you money because:Â
- they use up to 80% less energy to produce the same amount of light
- you won’t need to change them as often.
A solid long-term investment, switching old incandescent bulbs and fixtures to LED technology can save energy and cut electricity bills for businesses and homeowners. Switch to LEDand start saving.
Also, you can save money with the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.
Looking to get more efficient lighting?
Our experienced plumbing team can help you. Get the job done today!
While lighting is a vital component of our everyday lives, it’s important to consider the impacts of excessive energy usage from an ecological perspective as well as the strain on societal infrastructure. Properly conserving electricity through maintenance, technological advances, and lighting install logistics is not only responsible for the environment and future generations but can save many homeowners and business owners substantial money.