When it comes to energy efficiency, many homeowners fail to take into account their home lighting. Oftentimes the light bulbs used in lighting fixtures can have an impact on your energy bills. So, which are the best for energy savings? Which may end up costing you more?
At Gulf Coast Electric, we encourage Destin energy efficiency so all homeowners in the area can enjoy lower electric bills. That’s why we’ve come up with a helpful guide to help you choose the best light bulbs for your home.
Can Certain Light Bulbs Really Save You Money?
Something as simple as changing the light bulbs in your home’s lighting fixtures can help save you money on your energy bills. 15 percent of your average electricity use each month is devoted solely to lighting.
This may not seem like much, but it adds up in the long run. Energy-efficient options are typically one of the best ways to lower your energy bill. In addition, turning off lights when not in use is another great way to save money.
Energy-Saving Light Bulbs
Did you know you could save about $225 on your yearly energy bills just by switching to LED bulbs? Think about how many lighting fixtures you have in your home. That’s a lot of electricity in use daily. Now, think of how much you could save if all of these fixtures used energy-efficient light bulbs.
LED bulbs labeled with the ENERGY STAR seal of approval have earned the right to be called energy-efficient. These safe and high-quality light bulbs can be found at your local hardware or department store. They use up to 90 percent less energy than traditional light bulbs and even last 25 percent longer.
Best of all, they don’t cost much more than a traditional light bulb. They even come in a variety of colors for mood lighting. With 40W, 60W, 75W, and 100W options, LED bulbs are a great way to cut down on your energy bill.
Light Bulbs to Avoid
If a light bulb doesn’t have the ENERGY STAR logo, it probably isn’t worth your money. Not only will this bulb eat away at your electricity, but it’ll die much sooner than an LED bulb. These are typically cheap, low-quality light bulbs that may not even produce much light.
Incandescent and halogen light bulbs are the least energy-efficient choices on the market. Their high wattage may produce a bright light, but it’ll cost you much more on your energy bill. Additionally, because these bulbs fade quicker, you’ll be spending more to replace them.
LED bulbs have such a good lifespan that they’re preferred for areas such as garages and basements, as they can be left unmaintained for years to come with proper use. You won’t get that kind of quality or longevity with bulbs not approved by ENERGY STAR.
Trust in the Home Energy Professionals
When it comes to electricity, the electricians at Gulf Coast Electric know how to safely and effectively get the job done. Whether you’re looking for increased energy efficiency or system maintenance, we’re the ones to rely on. Contact us today!
