Lower Your Electric Bill with Energy Efficient Lighting
According to the Department of Energy, the average household spends 5% of its energy budget on lighting. Consequently, using energy-efficient lighting really pays off when it comes to lowering your electric bill.
The DOE provides insight on how home and business owners can cut energy cost by switching to energy-efficient lighting options. The following are energy saving lighting alternatives suggested by the DOE. Although these options may be a bit more costly, these Energy Star®-qualified lighting options use considerably less energy, last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, and come in a variety of types.
Halogen/Incandescent Bulbs
Energy Star qualified halogen bulbs save you money by lasting up to three times longer than traditional incandescent light bulbs. They come in a variety of colors and can be used with dimmers.
Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs)
CFLs are a great alternative to traditional incandescent lights as they use about 75% less energy and last up to 10 times longer. CFLs are ideal for indoor or outdoor lighting and available as floodlights. These bulbs provide significant energy savings and pay for themselves in about 9 months.
Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
LEDs offer the greatest energy savings as they use only about 20-25% of energy and lasts 25 times longer than traditional incandescent lights. Ideal for indoor or outdoor use, LEDs are available in screw-in bulbs, desk lamps, recessed down lights, and kitchen under cabinet lighting, and outdoor motion detection lights.
ENERGY TIP: To save even more on your energy bill, switch to Energy Star®-qualified light fixtures throughout your home or business. For more helpful tips, check out the DOE’s video Energy 101: Lighting Choices
