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Lights, computers and other
electron devices add to your electric bill.
Take these simple steps to reduce their effect.
- Turn off lights that are not in use.
- Turn off televisions that are not in use.
- Turn off computers printers, fax machines, copiers and
other electronic devices when not in use.
- Change light bulbs from incandescent to fluorescent in
lamps and fixtures that are routinely left on for long periods.
While fluorescent bulbs may cost more to purchase, you save money
in energy and replacement costs. You can also replace incandescent
bulbs with fluorescents wherever practical. Compact fluorescents
last 12 times longer and use only 1/3 the energy of incandescent
bulbs.
- Use bulbs that deliver the most lumens (light output) at
the lowest wattage. Try to get all the light output you can.
- Avoid using long-life bulbs. They are the least efficient
of incandescent bulbs. They cost more and provide less light. Use
them only in areas where bulbs are difficult to replace, such as
high ceilings or hallways.
- Use one higher-wattage bulb instead of several
lower-wattage bulbs. One 100-watt bulb gives the same amount of
light as two 60-watt bulbs, but uses 17 percent less energy. Make
sure you do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended wattage for
the fixture.
- Switch to low-wattage bulbs where only a small amount of
light is needed.
- Put motion detectors on exterior lights.
- Use timers to turn lights on and off when you are away
from home instead of leaving lights on continuously.
- Use dimmer controls, high/low switches or three-way bulbs
to adjust the level of lightning to exactly what you need. Dimmers
can help you save energy and increase bulb life, too.
- Dust your light bulbs regularly. Dust and dirt on light
bulbs can reduce their illumination by 50 percent.
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