Making the Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting Systems

 
As Federal standards for light bulbs change, many homeowners may be considering moving from incandescent to halogen, fluorescent, and LED lamps, while still enjoying an attractive indoor/outdoor lighting environment. With the range of products now available, designing a lighting system that will meet energy efficiency standards and lower utility costs is possible.

The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 requires all general-purpose light bulbs that produce 310–2600 lumens of light be 30% more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs by 2012 to 2014. The efficiency standards will start by phasing out 100-watt bulbs in January 2012 and end by eliminating 40-watt bulbs in January 2014.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Energy Star program recommends purchasing com-pact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs, which are glass tubes filled with gas and a small amount of mercury. CFLs are 75% more efficient than incandescent bulbs and designed to last 10 times longer. CFLs now come in a variety of shapes similar to those of incandescent bulbs, and are suitable for most lamps.

Halogens are filaments encased in a bulb made of fused quartz or high silica glass containing a halogen gas and are only 25% more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs.

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are small, highly efficient solid bulbs that provide energy savings of 75% to 90% compared with incandescent bulbs. Like CFLs, LEDs come in various shapes and sizes; but unlike CFLs, LEDs do not contain mercury. Although considerably more expensive than CFLs, LEDs last up to 50 times longer than conventional bulbs. The price of LED bulbs is expected to decline with advanced manufacturing technology.

CFLs and LEDs, unlike filament bulbs, emit little or no heat, and come in warm colors similar to the yellowish light of incandescent bulbs, and whiter and bluish colors for reading and task lighting.

In addition to switching bulbs, many homeowners want to install motion sensors or dimmers, which save energy by being able to adjust the lighting. As not all CFL and LED bulbs are suitable for dimmers, motion sensors, or outdoor lighting, it is important to coordinate the bulb type with the fixture and desired use.

Copyright © 2012 MHM Publications. All Rights Reserved.

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