How can I save energy on lighting?

A single light bulb doesn’t use a whole lot of energy. But when you add up all the lights in your home and think about how long they are usually on during the month, it can really add up. In fact, lighting is about 12% of your monthly bill.

Thinking about cutting down on your lighting energy use, and try these 12 tips.

1. Let the sun shine in
   In the Pacific Northwest sunshine is always welcome. So, open the blinds and curtains, and take advantage of the natural light.

2. Dim the lights
   Consider purchasing dimmer switches. They can increase bulb life while reducing electric consumption and operating cost. But don’t use them with compact fluorescent bulbs because they’re not compatible.

3. Use LEDs
   LEDstands for light emitting diode. LED lighting products produce light approximately 90% more efficiently than incandescent light bulbs. How do they work? An electrical current passes through a microchip, which illuminates the tiny light sources we call LEDs and the result is visible light.

4. Use motion sensors
   These make the lights go on or off when someone enters or leaves the room. These are perfect for the garage. They’re also great for outdoor lighting. Your lights will only come on when motion is detected.

5. Let times take on the task
   If you forget to turn off the lights, try timers. They turn lights on and off automatically and help with home security. Set it and forget it.

6. Decorate in light colors
   If you plan to redecorate, think about lighter colors to reflect light. Darker colors absorb light and require more watts to light the room.

7. Use light colored light shades
   A white lamp will give the best light. Tall, narrow shades or short, dark-colored shades let less light through. You’ll probably need to turn on another light to see properly, which means you’ll use more electricity.

8. Keep them clean
   Dirty or dusty light bulbs don’t put out as much light as clean bulbs because dirt and dust absorb light.
9. Plan for vacation
   If you’re going away you’ll probably want to leave some lights on for security reasons. Consider buying timers to turn your lights on and off instead of leaving them on 24 hours a day. The money you save on lighting could pay for the timers.
10. Use only what you need
    Do you ever go into a room and turn on all the lights? Or leave landscaping lighting on all night? Inside and outside, use only as much light as you need.