Saving electricity one lightbulb at a time

It is small, bright and comes in various sizes and colors. It is the source of light in almost every room yet often forgotten about until it must be replaced. This item can also make a huge difference in energy efficiency in your home with some minor adjustments. Any guesses on what it might be? Lightbulbs are a great and easy way to save money on your electrical bill every month with these simple changes.

Turn off lights. When you aren’t home, in the room or in need of the lights being on, flip the light switch! Even think about your outdoor lighting with this tip. If you have porch or patio lights or even string lights, make sure they are turned off or unplugged when not needed. This simple action can save a substantial amount of energy, especially if your lights are left on for an extended amount of time.

Use natural light. During the day, get the most out of the sun that you can! Open curtains and blinds while you are home to bring in the daylight rather than turning on your lights throughout the house. Consider placing furniture and mirrors to reflect and amplify natural light too.

Regularly clean lamps and fixtures. Dust and dirt happen, and lighting is typically not the first place you think of on your cleaning days. However, dust and dirt can reduce light output, causing more energy to be used to achieve the desired brightness. So, while you are cleaning up — add lamps and fixtures to the to do list!

Switch to LEDs. LED bulbs consume significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. In fact, LEDs often use 75% less energy compared to others. These bulbs are also more cost effective as they have a much longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements. LEDs are available in various color temperatures too.

Consider motion sensors, smart outlets, and dimmers. Motion sensors automatically turn lights on when movement is detected. Motion sensors also turn lights off when the area is vacant, preventing unnecessary energy use. Another great option is a smart plug or outlet, which gives you the convenience of controlling your lights through your smartphone. You can even set schedules to turn your lights on or off at a specific time. Dimmers allow you to adjust the level of your lights, which reduces energy consumption when full-level brightness isn’t needed.