Switching to energy efficient lighting is one of the fastest ways to cut your energy bills. Lightbulbs are easy, fast, and inexpensive to replace, but they aren't your only option for saving money on energy and lighting. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- One LED (light-emitting diode) lightbulb uses up to 90% less energy than the old incandescent bulbs. The average household has about 70 lightbulbs; making the change to LEDs can save you more than $80 in electricity costs over its lifetime.
- LED lightbulbs last 15-25 times longer, so you'll buy fewer bulbs.
- Controls like timers and photocells save electricity by turning lights off when not in use. Dimmers save when used to lower light levels.
- Keep your curtains or shades open to use daylight instead of turning on the lights.
- Look for LED products and fixtures for outside use such as pathway lights, step lights, and porches.