How to Save Energy on Lighting

Soaring energy costs have made it more important than ever to conserve energy whenever possible. One of the most common uses of electricity is for lighting. There are several simple steps you can take to save money on lighting and conserve the world's natural resources.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Compact fluorescent bulbs
• Timers
• Task lighting
• Lamps with multiple settings
• Fluorescent torchieres

1. Trade your older bulbs for new energy efficient ones. Choose compact fluorescent lamps that save energy and last much longer than traditional, incandescent bulbs. As a rule, look for the government's Energy Star designation on any new bulbs you plan to purchase.

2. Buy timers or motion detectors to install in your home's lighting system. Once you've done so, your lights will turn on and off automatically as you leave a room.

3. Replace large room lights with smaller lighting systems designed to light only the parts of a room you actually use. Commonly known as "task lighting," these lights help to reduce your overall light use. Install fluorescent lights around sinks and cabinets to illuminate counter space.

4. Purchase lights with multiple settings in addition to basic "on" and "off" modes. During the daytime, you may only need to supplement sunlight with a dim bulb, so invest in lamps that have high, medium and low settings.

5. Look for lighting fixtures that have metallic, reflective backings. This is a creative and simple way to help your bulbs distribute light. Instead of paying for more light, try to maximize the effectiveness of the light you already have.

6. Replace halogen lamps in torchiere fixtures with more energy efficient, fluorescent torchieres. Fluorescent torchieres can reduce energy use by as much as 80 percent while producing more light. Since fluorescent torchieres produce less heat, they also help to reduce the risk of household fires.

7. Save energy on lighting by limiting the use of outdoor lights. If you must use an outdoor lighting system, attach it to a motion detector or timer.

Tips & Warnings

• Take advantage of free lighting offered by the sun. When constructing a new house, position windows to face east and west to maximize exposure to direct sunlight. Consider installing wide bay windows in an existing house.
• Not every home lighting fixture will accommodate compact fluorescent bulbs. Make sure to check your lighting system's specifications before investing in energy efficient bulbs.

[hanklee]

on 11/2/2008 how can i save on lighting costs -presently i am using regular 8 feet fluorescent fixtures and bulbs for my factory production area?