Energy Efficiency With Interior Lighting

Compact Fluorescent Bulbs

• One of the easiest ways to improve your indoor lighting efficiency is to use compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) in all of your lighting fixtures. According to the Department of Energy, CFLs use up to 75 percent less energy and can last up to 10 times longer than standard light bulbs. The bulbs burn at a cooler temperature, and each one will save you about $30 over its lifetime. CFLs are most effective in lights that are on for long periods of time, but they can be used anywhere. Look for the Energy Star certification when shopping for efficient bulbs.

Lighting Controls

• Lighting controls can help you design a custom lighting scheme to suit different purposes; this is particularly useful when you don't need to illuminate an entire room to full brightness. Install dimmer switches to enable you to use less energy and only as much light as you need. You can also use motion sensors in areas where lights tend to be left on, such as on the staircase to a basement or attic.

Timers

• In buildings where lights tend to be left on for long periods of time, you can increase efficiency and reduce electricity bills by installing lighting timer systems. In an office, you might time the lights to shut off shortly after closing; employees can use workspace lights if they stay longer. At home, you can set timers so lights turn off automatically in rooms that don't see long periods of use, such as the laundry room or basement. If you travel frequently, look into occupancy timers, which mimic the way you use lights when you are home.

Daylighting

• To minimize the amount of electric light you use, find ways to maximize the amount of natural light in each room. If you are building a new structure, you can design it with south- and north-facing windows, which let in a great deal of sunlight without overly impacting the room temperature. For existing structures, you can use sheer curtains and blinds to ensure privacy while providing as much light as possible. To dramatically increase your natural light resource, install a skylight.