A recent article in Better Homes and Gardens Lighting magazine highlighted ten easy ways to improve the lighting in your home. We thought these were excellent ideas and wanted to share them on our blog.
1. Change out the oldest lighting fixture in your home.
Your oldest fixtures and bulbs are probably your least energy efficient. Trade them out for a product with an Energy Star rating. You will get a new look, save on electricity bills and get a three year warranty.
2. Fix your media room lighting.
Add ambient and task lighting in your TV watching areas to decrease the glare on the screen from your overhead lights.
3. Swap out the lightbulb you leave on the longest.
Energy star labeled bulbs cut your energy use and save energy costs in addition to generating less heat.
4. Add a fixture outside an unlit door.
If you have a entrance, garage or side door without adequate light, add wall sconce(s) for increased safety and security.
5. Check the height of your dining room chandelier.
Your chandelier should be about 30 inches from the top of your table.
6. Replace at least one light switch, if not more.
The newer light bulbs will work best with newer switches.
7. Pick a new shade for a lamp you love.
Changing out your lamp shade will give you a new look and a chance enhance your decor without a big commitment. A light color will diffuse the light into a wider circle, while a darker shade will concentrate the light on a surface.
8. Download a lighting control app.
Apps for smart phones and tablets may allow you to control window treatments, home temperatures and other systems.
9. Find a new ceiling fan.
A new ceiling fan will be more energy efficient and many are much quieter than the older models.
10. Swap out your holiday lights for LED versions.
During the holiday season, 2.22 million kilowatt hours of electricity are used across the country. LED holiday lights use less energy and will last about 40 years, according to the EPA.
If any of these ideas have inspired you to improve the lighting in your home, we can help! Call us at (512) 251-0000 or come by our showroom to learn more and pick up your own copy of Better Homes and Gardens Lighting magazine.
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