Lighting Choices - How To Save Money In The Long Run?
There are various options available by which one can save money, however, the budget is the deciding factor in choosing the type of lighting one can avail. Moreover, it is necessary to consult a professional electrician who can cater and provide various options which are feasible and can help to save money in the long run.
An average household spends about 5% of its energy budget to lighting. Switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the easiest ways to cut the energy bills.
New light bulbs: what’s the difference?
Traditional incandescent bulbs use a lot of energy to produce light and over 90% of the energy is wasted as heat. Whereas, the energy-efficient light bulbs use about 20%-80% less energy than the traditional incandescent, saving a lot of money.
What are the different lighting choices available?
There are many energy-saving light bulbs available, such as compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), light emitting diodes (LEDs), etc. Although they cost more than the traditional incandescent bulbs, however, save a lot of money because they use less energy. One can easily find these in almost every hardware and home improvement store and can be fixed by taking help of a professional electrician.
CFL vs LED light bulbs: which is better?
Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are a version of the long tube fluorescent lights. They use less electricity than the traditional light bulbs. Moreover, an ENERGY STAR-rated CFL uses about one-fourth of the energy and lasts longer than a traditional incandescent that puts out the same amount of light. It contains mercury, which is a toxic heavy metal, which is harmful to both health and the environment.
The light-emitting diodes (LEDs) light up immediately, like an incandescent bulb and is a source of light that is reliable, instantaneous, and can be dimmed accordingly. They last up to five times longer than the CFLs, which can literally last a lifetime. Moreover, these are user-friendly as they do not contain mercury and are available in soft, warm, and bright white hues. LEDs work well both indoors and outdoors because of their durability in the cold environment and they are safer, studier and easy to install.
Comparing cost
While replacing the light bulbs, the budget is an important factor in deciding which lighting option to choose. It is necessary to buy good quality bulbs that last longer rather than buying a dozen or cheaper ones that keep burning out.
Although, both CFLs and LEDs use considerably less electricity than the traditional bulbs. However, long-lasting and more efficient light bulbs pay off over time. CFLs are comparatively cheaper than the LEDs, therefore, one can choose according to the set budget.
Other Important factors
It is recommended to get a professional home energy audit with the help of a professional electrician. This helps one to pinpoint areas where the home is losing energy and what all improvements are required to save money in the long run. The professional recommends making upgrades in a home energy audit, which can save up to 10%-30% of the annual utility bill.
Moreover, it is necessary to properly maintain the heating and cooling equipment; turning off lights when not in use; reducing electricity use throughout the home; reducing the use of hot water; ensuring if the home is adequately insulated; and smart use of home design elements, such as landscaping and window coverings can save more money in the long run.
Also, one can choose the lighting products which are energy star rated, as it exceeds the federal minimum standards for efficiency, to save money.
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