Eco-conscious communities are always on the lookout for energy-efficient solutions for homes and office buildings. Actually, these days you may find that reducing your carbon footprint as well as finding ways to decrease daily living costs is on the mind of most homeowners and CEOs. Installing energy-saving equipment at home and in commercial buildings is something everyone should be thinking about, isn’t it?
Luckily, countries such as Australia have already introduced energy saving schemes to reduce pressure on the national grid while protecting the natural environment. Energy-efficient lighting solutions are one way of minimising harmful carbon emissions and with skylight installation Brisbane locals are doing their bit for the environment. What other solutions are there for homes and businesses? Read on!
5 Energy-Efficient Lighting Solutions for Homes and Office Buildings
1. Invest in Daylighting Systems
Daylighting systems or skylights capture natural light and channel it into interior spaces, brightening up the inside of a home or office building quickly and efficiently. It’s a cost-effective, energy-efficient solution that has several other benefits worth noting:
- More exposure to natural light is good for your mental and physical health.
- Improved workplace productivity.
- Reduced monthly energy bills.
- Installation requires minimal infrastructural changes.
Investing in home or commercial daylighting systems increases the resale value of your property and reduces your reliance on artificial lighting. Innovative technology and materials prevent solar gain in the hot summer months and limit heat loss in the colder seasons. A win-win situation all around!
2. Use Sensors or Timers on External Lighting Fixtures
How often do you leave for work forgetting to switch off your external lighting? Also, does it really matter?
Leaving lights on isn’t a deal breaker particularly if you’ve installed LED lighting fixtures. However, overall, it puts pressure on the national grid especially if everyone does it.
Using sensors or timers on your external lighting fixtures ensures they’ll switch off after a certain period. This reduces the amount of energy they’re using AND keeps your lighting bills low.
Smart technology allows you to control timers and exterior lighting day and night even when you’re not at home or in the office. How’s that for convenience and energy saving?
3. Experiment With LED Lighting
The industry got a lot of flak when LED light bulbs first came out! Consumers complained they were too weak and inadequate to provide good lighting compared to their incandescent counterparts. Fortunately, better technology has improved the abilities of LED lighting.
The cost of installing LED light bulbs was also a drawback for homeowners and businesses alike. However, good quality LED lighting gives you up to 200,000 light hours compared to old-fashioned bulbs which have lifespans of approximately 1,200 hours!
Experimenting with the different brands will help you find the right LED, energy-efficient lighting solution for your home or office.
4. Take Advantage of Large Windows and Daylight
If you’re building your home from scratch, make sure to include large windows in the design. The same applies to commercial properties – larger windows increase natural lighting, brightening up your indoor spaces sufficiently during the day. Large storefront windows are energy-efficient as well, saving you from spending money on artificial lighting.
Homeowners and businesses can offset high energy costs by installing large windows in areas that get ample sunlight. Removing overgrown shrubbery and trees close to windows will open them up and allow in more daylight.
5. Use the Right Window Treatment
Window treatments come in a variety of styles, colours and functionality. Using the right window covering can help you save on your lighting bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Consider the following options for energy-efficient lighting during the day:
- Louvred blinds: The slats allow you to control the amount of sunlight coming into your room ensuring you get adequate lighting during the day.
- Curtains: Traditionally used in homes, the drapes can be left open during the day to allow sunlight in for all-day lighting. Avoid heavy, bulky fabrics that could block out light.
- Window films: Good for reducing glare without blocking out light completely, window films let you keep the view while offering privacy and sufficient lighting on bright days.
Exterior shutters and shades can help to reduce solar glare while allowing dappled lighting during the day. However, if you want to avoid using artificial lighting during the day, these options may not be the best energy-efficient solution.
Final Thoughts
Energy-efficient lighting solutions needn’t cost you an arm or a leg! The simple act of switching off your lights every time you leave the room saves up to 20% of your monthly household electricity consumption! You’re not only saving on energy bills but you’re having an impact on the global climate change statistics as well.
Whether you decide to install home or commercial skylights, change your window treatments or get all the benefits of LED lighting, these energy-efficient solutions contribute to a healthier environment.
Your contribution makes a huge difference to global climate change whether you’re a homeowner or CEO – do your bit and be proud of your carbon footprint!