Saving Energy - Lighting
Light Bulbs
Your choice of light bulb can affect your energy consumption in the home.
Decide whether you need task or ambient lighting (or perhaps both) depending on the room's function and then use this information to help you choose the right light bulb.
Choose energy efficient compact fluorescent globes. They last 6-10 times longer and use 80% less energy than standard globes.
Use energy efficient fluorescent lamps in rooms where light is required for longer periods, such as kitchens and living areas.
Don't leave outdoor security lights on all night or during the day - consider installing a timer or sensor.
Avoid having several lights activated by one switch. Use separate switches for each light.
If switching to energy-saving bulbs, start by replacing the light bulbs in the rooms that you use most often since this will save the most energy and money.
Energy-saving bulbs give out the same amount of light as incandescent bulbs without losing energy in heat. They are considerably more expensive than regular bulbs, but you recoup your initial outlay quickly with the money you save in electricity bills.
Dimmer Switches
Dimmers are the ideal solution if you want to be able to change the light levels in a room and save energy.
Operating dimmer switches reduces the flow of electric current to the light bulbs and therefore uses less energy. You can adjust the light levels to what you need (whether its creating a romantic atmosphere, or bright light for tasks), and you will save on your electricity bill and save fossil fuels.
Standard light switches can be replaced with a dimmer mechanism quite quickly and easily by a professional electrician without having to change the wiring.
Maximizing Natural Light
A little bit of daylight is always nice, whether in your home or your office. Natural light has many advantages in the home, and can save you energy usually consumed by lighting and heating. Sunlight energizes us, affects out moods and breathes life into our homes.
Move tables and desks - key work surfaces - closer to a window if possible.
Keep blinds or shades open during the day.
South-facing windows (or north facing windows, in case you live in the south hemisphere) are highly advantageous for day-lighting: they allow most winter sunlight into the home; and if the building is properly shaded they will not cause too much sun during the summer.
Install skylights in upper-storey rooms to provide a source of natural light all day long. They should involve good glass (at least two panes glass) with a heat reflecting coating. Stick to high energy efficient skylights, otherwise they will cause unwanted heat or cold losses. More information about skylights.
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Types of light bulbs
The cheapest bulb to buy isn't always the most economical. Choose the right light for the right environment.
- Incandescent lights are common and cheap but more expensive to run. Gives off a lot of heat which wastes energy, so always switch off when not in use.
- Halogen lights are more expensive, but twice as energy efficient. Give off a brilliant white light, ideal for task lighting. Gives off a lot of heat but uses less eneregy than incandescent.
- Fluorescent lights are the most energy efficient. They use one-fifth of the energy of a standard light bulb. Can last up to 8 times longer.
- Compact fluorescent bulbs are the standard energy-saving bulbs. They last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs & are excellent for task lighting. Can be fitted into regular light sockets and last longer if left on for a period of time, rather than switched on and off.