Most folks take lighting for granted, but if you’ve ever lost power in a storm, you know the frustration of being left in the dark.
Lighting contributes to a space’s aesthetic appeal and allows the homeowner to go about their business 24/7. However, monthly electric bills are soaring. It’s time for some professional maintenance tips to achieve energy efficiency.
Begin With Your Light Bulbs
Simple, inexpensive adjustments can make a significant difference. Energy-efficient light bulbs can last up to 25 times longer and use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. That’s impressive when you consider that a light-emitting diode (LED) can keep burning for 25,000 hours or more. Now, compare that to a typical incandescent bulb, which only lasts around 1,000 hours.
Parents teach their children to turn off the lights when leaving a room, and that’s still good advice. Also, use dimmers at their lowest brightness level to reduce electricity usage.
Another maintenance tip is swapping out all your incandescent bulbs for ENERGY STAR LED bulbs. These are best for kitchen fixtures, recessed lighting and lights that are on for more than two hours a day.
Choose Advanced Solar Lighting
Your property can still enjoy plenty of lighting while saving you money and energy with solar options outdoors. Today’s solar lights are quite sophisticated, easy to set up and require barely any maintenance.
Look for solar lighting with smart features that can enhance energy efficiency, security and offer greater tailoring for outdoor spaces. Some of these include voice-assistant control, motion sensors and adjustable brightness.
Get Out the Dust Cloth
This may sound too simple, but it can have an impact on your lighting system. If you never dust or clean your lighting fixtures, you’re doing your home a disservice. Lighting fixtures, diffusers and bulbs can all accumulate dirt, dust and debris. When you don’t regularly dust and clean these components, the result is reduced light output and a higher energy consumption.
That small chore can make a difference. Remember to use a soft cloth and cleaning products that won’t damage vulnerable parts.
Seek Sound Electrical Connections
Here’s another lighting maintenance tip to ensure your systems are running properly and safely. Are your electrical connections all secure? Check for flickering lights and defective switches, outlets and wall plates. The last thing you need is an electrical short or fire. Always consult a licensed electrician to deal with potential hazards.
Are You Ready to Light Up Your Home?
Efficient lighting makes every home comfortable and operational. If you’re living in St. Louis, MO, contact the pros at Innovate Electric for the best in lighting installation services.