How to Save On Lighting Costs in Winter

Winters in New England can be bitterly cold, with unpredictable snow squalls and ice storms. The start of 2018 has brought unseasonably cold weather to Connecticut and some families may be worried about their next utility bill. While heat is a necessity in the winter, there are tips and tricks to saving energy this time of year; one is reduced lighting consumption. We offer 3 quick tips to cut back on lighting costs this season.

Let the Sunshine In

motorized window shadesDid you know the sun’s rays in winter can be even stronger than in summer? When sunlight is reflected off snow, it’s double trouble – you are being hit with sunshine from both the sky and ground. On green grass, sunlight does not bounce back up.

Although you may get an unexpected sunburn, there is a benefit to brighter sunshine in winter: More natural light to illuminate your home! During the day, keep the curtains open and let the sun work in place of your light fixtures. As an added bonus, you can retain some of the sun’s heat after dark if you close the curtains tight at sundown.

Install Lighting Controls

Many of us can overuse our lights, especially during winter when the sun goes down earlier in the day. However, you may not need the number of fixtures that you think to keep a room well-lit. We always recommend layering your lighting design, which means a balance of ambient, task and accent lighting. For instance, recessed cans paired with a lamp and wall sconces. In many cases, you do not need all three sources on full-strength. That’s where lighting controls comes in.

A dimmer switch allows you to manage the intensity of illumination coming from your pendants, flush mounts and more. While dimmers keep bulbs from working overtime, it’s also important to turn lights completely off when you leave a room.

Switch to LED Bulbs

Wattage measures the amount of power used to light a bulb, while lumens are the level of brightness. Not only can low wattage reduce energy consumption, but light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs are much more efficient than traditional bulbs. The average LED bulb can last 16 to 17 times longer than an incandescent, are free of toxic chemicals and 100 percent recyclable. Reduce your carbon footprint and deduct dollars from next month’s electricity bill with LEDs!

Connecticut Lighting Centers is your local source for indoor and outdoor lighting. We have lighting design experts who can come to your home and map out the placement of lights for maximum efficiency. To reduce your energy costs this winter, work with our team to find a lighting solution that suits your budget. Visit our Hartford or Southington showroom today!

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