Energy Tips

Lighting Tips:

• Get in the habit of turning off the lights every time you leave a room for more than a few minutes. For fluorescent lighting, turn them off if you'll be away for more than 15 minutes. This prolongs the life of the fixtures.
• Instead of leaving outdoor lights on all night while you sleep, use a motion detector to turn on lights when they detect motion. With motion detectors, use the lowest wattage incandescent bulb that will do the job. If security is a concern, leave a low-wattage porch light on all night. For maximum security, use a high-pressure sodium bulb on a timer or light sensor. High-pressure sodium bulbs perform best when they're on for long periods of time.
• Dust off light bulbs. Dirty, greasy, smoky light bulbs can reduce light output by as much as 10 percent.
• Use only the number of bulbs needed to light an area. Three bulbs can usually do the same job as four if they are positioned accurately.
• Use free light. Natural light is more efficient than electric.
• The lighter the colors you use on the wall and other decor, the less artificial lighting is required to illuminate the area.
• Use timers when on vacation to turn lights on and off at different times on different days. Your home looks more lived in this way.