Audit Outdoor Lighting for Energy Efficiency
Audit Outdoor Lighting for Energy Efficiency
Project Overview
We depend on outdoor lighting to keep our homes well-lit and secure. However, leaving outdoor lights on unnecessarily or lighting areas excessively can increase energy costs. Conduct an audit of your outdoor lighting to ensure it is energy efficient. Consider replacing incandescent bulbs with CFLs or installing solar LED landscape lighting. You could also install lighting controls such as timers, photocells or motion sensors to ensure your lights are on only when they need to be. There are many options, so choose the one that is right for you.
Step 1
Upgrade porch lights and post lanterns: Bulbs
Check to see what types of bulbs you currently use. Replace incandescents with compact fluorescents (CFLs), which use up to 75% less energy and last ten times longer. Look for the ENERGY STAR logo and choose bulbs that are 25 watts or less.
Be sure to check out the latest technology. There are now electronic ballasted CFLs rated to start at temperatures as low as -30oC. And if you plan on using lighting controls, check the packaging to ensure they are compatible with CFLs. If they are not, they will shorten the life of the bulb.
Step 2
Upgrade porch lights and post lanterns: Fixtures
If your current fixtures do not accommodate CFLs or do not have built in controls, it might be time for an upgrade. Look for ENERGY STAR fixtures for the best energy savings. Most porch lights and post lights can be easily installed with some basic electrical work. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for details.
Step 3
Install lighting controls: Timers
Timers allow you to set lights to turn on and off at specific times of day or night. Use timers for lights on the driveway, walkway, porch and front and back patio. You will save energy and enhance the safety and security of your home. For many timers, installation is as easy as plugging them in.
Note that some electronic timers do not work with CFL bulbs, so be sure to check the package of both items before purchasing to ensure they are compatible.
Step 4
Install lighting controls: Motion sensors
Motion sensors automatically turn lights on when motion is detected. They can be programmed to stay on for varying amounts of time and can be used in combination with timers. Choose an ENERGY STAR fixture with built-in motion sensor, or install one easily by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you are using compatible CFL bulbs, be sure to set your light to stay on for at least 15 minutes at a time. Frequently turning a CFL on and off will shorten the bulb’s lifespan.
Step 5
Install lighting controls: Photocells
Photocells turn outdoor lights on when it gets dark and off when natural light levels are high. Mount photocells inside outdoor light fixtures to ensure they turn on only after dark. Use in combination with a timer so they are not on throughout the entire night. Choose a fixture with built-in photocell, or install one easily by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Again, all photocells are not compatible with CFLs, so be sure to check the packaging before purchase.
Step 6
Use renewable energy: Solar landscape lighting
Don’t wait for spring to install solar-powered landscape lighting. These outdoor lights come in many shapes and sizes and do not use any electricity. They typically consist of a solar panel that collects energy from the sun and stores it in batteries that power light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs. Solar lights can be easily installed in ground or on the surface of a deck.
Contact your REALTOR at Coldwell Banker Vantage Realty for more tips and information on saving energy in your home.
Follow