Trying to save money but not sure where to cut costs? What if we were to tell you that there’s something currently in your home that can easily be replaced and begin helping your budget in an impactful way?

Replacing your incandescent light bulbs for ones specifically made for energy-efficiency is your key to a more affordable and efficient home. Here’s why…

What are Incandescent Bulbs?
Incandescent lightbulbs are the most common light bulbs and, oftentimes, the ones people gravitate towards because they’re inexpensive to purchase, turn on instantly once installed, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit our needs. However, when it comes to energy efficiency, they’re not all that glamorous.

While they serve their purpose of producing light, incandescent light bulbs give off much more heat than is necessary. And while this may sound nice, especially during those cool winter nights, this is actually causing greater energy loss. In fact, about 90% of the energy incandescents use is given off as heat, shortening the lifespan of the bulb itself and wasting the energy that you’re paying for! Though their inexpensive cost makes them seem like the favorable option, the short life span and wasted energy winds up costing you than if you were to switch to an energy-efficient and long-lasting alternative.

What are my options?
Alternatives to standard incandescents are energy-efficient bulbs. There are three main types that Cameron recommends: halogen incandescent, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), and light emitting diodes (LEDs). Generally, bulbs made specifically for energy-efficiency can save 25 – 80% of energy as well as last up to 25 times longer than regular incandescents (depending on which type you choose). Each type of energy-efficient lighting option also has its own features and benefits. See below:

Halogen incandescents

  • Available in wide ranges of shapes and colors
  • Can be used with dimmers (to adjust the brightness of a room)
  • Contain a capsule inside the bulb to hold gas in and increase effectiveness

CFLs

  • Last approximately 10 times longer than a traditional incandescent
  • CFLs use about ⅓ the energy of halogen incandescent lighting
  • Come in range of colors, including warmer tones

LEDs

  • One the most energy-efficient lighting options
  • Can act as a replacement for reflector bulbs, small track lights, desk lamps, outdoor lights as well as 40W, 60W, and 75W incandescent light bulbs
  • Come in variety of colors
  • Some offer features like daylight and motion sensors
  • Durable and able to perform through ranging temperatures

 

On average, lighting consumes 5% of your home’s total energy costs. Let’s reduce that. Switching your lighting fixtures is a simple way to begin cutting costs while also improving your home’s energy efficiency. Follow the tips above and begin saving today!

Have questions or want more tips on how to continue saving money and energy in your home? Visit our Home Energy University or give us a call today at (443) 459-5800.