The big move in the lighting industry now is to encourage a switchover from energy inefficient incandescent bulbs to more energy efficient options. Fluorescents, CFLs (compact fluorescent lights), LEDs, halogens, xenon, etc, provide better, brighter light while using far less energy and lasting a much longer time. However, if you're at the top of the curve of change and have already begun your changeover to more energy efficient light fixtures and bulbs, there are still other ways to tweak your light usage and conserve even more energy and reduce expense at the same time. Consider the following tips: Paint Rooms Light Colors Painting walls and ceilings a light color will help to reflect light throughout the room, requiring less sources of light. Also, light fixtures such as spotlights, sconces, puck lights and Torchiere lamps can be used to direct light up or down bright colored walls and off of bright colored ceilings to increase the illumination of a room. Light Shades Using the proper light shade on any lamp or other light fixture which requires them will help to provide more light with less effort. Shades that are made of clear, slightly frosted or light, thin material are best as they allow the most light to pass through. Many decorative shades and shades made of colored glass are beautiful to look at, but they can significantly hinder the amount of light being released into the room. If your room happens to be dark, it will take other lights being utilized in the same area to provide the desired amount of light. And, of course, more lights equals more energy used. Light Reduction Turning off all lights which are not in use will further reduce energy consumption. A good rule of thumb is when you are leaving a room for more than 15 minutes, shut off all lights. If you should return to the room later on, you can turn on only the lights needed. If you should need or want to leave on a nightlight for going to and from the bathroom, for instance, use energy efficient LED light strips or other low-voltage options. Shutting off all lights that are not in use is a good habit for everyone to practice. However, it is especially a good practice to teach children who are not as energy savvy as adults. That way, as they grow older, they will already be trained to reduce energy use. Timers and Dimmers Placing key lighting units on timers and dimmers is an excellent way to reduce energy use within the home. Outdoor overnight security lights and interior lights used while away from home can be placed on timers so that the lights are on only for specified periods of time. With the help of a professional, attaching numerous indoor units to dimmers not only saves energy by reducing the amount of light needed for various tasks, but it also give you a lot of extra mood lighting options for the space. Utilizing energy efficient light fixtures and bulbs and following a few common sense tips can greatly reduce your overall energy consumption.
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