If you are still using incandescent lightbulbs in your home, replace them with LED bulbs right away. LEDs can be as much as 90% more efficient than incandescent bulbs, which waste most of their energy as heat. LED bulbs can also last for a decade or longer. The light of LED bulbs no longer has to be cold and sterile. Technology has advanced to the point where they can be screwed into regular lamps and ceiling lights and can give off light that’s not only bright but mimics warm sunlight. LED bulbs can also save you as much as 75% when it comes to your monthly bill.
Use the Right Light for Different Areas
Another thing that a lot of homeowners don’t consider is picking the right type of light for different areas of your home. You may need bright light in the kitchen to help you prepare meals, cook and clean up properly. However, the light in the bedrooms doesn’t have to be so intense. You may need light that’s just bright enough to make reading comfortable. The light in a bathroom may need to have a certain color temperature for you to be able to apply makeup correctly. Figuring out what type of light a room needs can also save you money.
Turn the Lights off in a Naturally Bright Room
One way to save on energy costs without sacrificing brightness is to turn the lights off in a room that’s already full of naturally bright light. These rooms often have a south or southeastern exposure and get bright light for most of the day. A room with a western exposure gets good light in the afternoons. So, open the drapes, pull up the blinds, and let the sun shine in.
Clean the Lightbulbs
Anybody who has ever changed a lightbulb, and that’s most people, knows that they can collect an amazing amount of dust and dirt. Kitchen lightbulbs, which collect cooking grease as well as dust, can get especially filthy. Simply cleaning a lightbulb can increase the brightness in a room by 30 percent, according to the Department of Energy. Just make sure to unplug the lamp or turn off the fixture at the circuit box. Let the bulb cool off if it’s hot, unscrew it, clean it with a dry cloth, and replace it.
Learn More About Saving Money Without Sacrificing Brightness
As professional electricians, we can teach you how to save money when it comes to lighting your home without sacrificing the bright light that makes it cheerful, comfortable and welcoming. To learn more about your lighting and other electrical systems, give us a call at Current Electrical Systems of Ann Arbor, Michigan.