Category Archives: Light Bulbs

Why Consider Energy Star Lighting for the Home?

Posted on July 14, 2008 by marylmphr

Energy Star Rated products are designed with energy efficiency in mind. They use up to 75% less energy than standard products with the same features. For instance, the average energy star ceiling fan is 50%es lighting example more energy efficient than a standard ceiling fan model. These savings can be seen first hand on household utility bills.

There are thousands of energy star products on the market today. A great way to increase energy savings in the home is by installing an energy star rated lighting product such as a light fixture, light bulb and ceiling fan. When you use energy star products throughout your home you are saving money, saving energy, and saving the planet all at the same time.

What is Energy Star Lighting?

In order to be considered energy star rated, a product must meet specific guidelines that are set by the United States Department of Energy and the United States Environmental Protection Agency. These standards are set for each individual group of products and rate qualities that relate to the energy efficiency of the product when used under normal circumstances.

Energy Star products are specifically designed to use less energy, save money, and help protect the environment. Today there is a full line of products that have met specific product specifications and endured rigorous testing in order to earn the energy star rating. From appliances to electronics, office equipment to commercial food service equipment, and lighting fixtures to ceiling fans, there are thousands of products that can help you on your way to energy savings one small step at a time.

Energy Star Lighting Helps Saves Money and the Earth

More than 40% of United States carbon dioxide emissions stem from the burning of fossil fuels for the purpose of electricity generation. These harmful emissions contribute largely to the effects of global warming which has been blamed for rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and significant changes to the amount and pattern of precipitation. Many fear that global warming factors will have adverse effects on the Earth over time if the issue is not solved soon.

minka es Using less energy at home reduces the greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. This in return reduces the risks of global warming climate change. If every household takes steps toward reduced energy consumption then greenhouse gas emissions can be greatly reduced and the outlook of a cleaner planet is possible.

Some of the most used energy within the home comes from lighting, which is used on a daily basis in every home. Luckily we all have the ability to make a difference in the amount of energy that is consumed by taking small steps toward energy efficiency.

Using energy star rated products such as energy star lighting throughout the home can help you save hundreds of dollars annually on utility bills while at the same time helping save the Earth.

Energy star lighting midvale es

  • uses up to 75% less energy than standard lights
  • produces 75% less heat
  • lasts up to ten times longer than the average light bulb.

What this means to the consumer:

  • You can save on your utility bill through decreased energy consumption from both the light use as well as the cooling cost of your home since the light puts off less heat
  • You can save the Earth by reducing the amount of fossil fuels that are burned to create energy
  • You can save time by replacing light bulbs less often since energy star bulbs last ten times longer than the standard bulb

Energy Star Products Fit Any Design

Today there are energy star products that are sure to fit any home design. There is no longer the need to sacrifice style just to conserve energy and save the planet. From energy star lighting to ceiling fans there is an energy efficient, energy star product that will compliment any décor.

Energy star lighting can be used throughout the home to increase energy efficiency within the home and to add beauty. From elegant chandeliers to simple flush mount lighting, beautiful wall sconces to pendants there is a lighting fixture that is energy star approved for any room in the home.

Energy star lighting products come in finishes that will coordinate with any décor.

Popular finishes include:es outdoor one

  • Bronze
  • Brushed Nickel
  • Rust
  • Patina
  • Chrome
  • Oak

To conserve even more energy throughout the home, there are energy star rated ceiling fans that are perfect for every room. Energy Star ceiling fans not only use 50% less energy than a standard ceiling fan model, they also help to reduce the amount of energy used by air conditioning and heating in a home by 10-20%.
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Energy star ceiling fans are available in a variety of styles. From modern to traditional there is an energy star ceiling fan for every room in a home. Energy Star ceiling fan models are also available with a UL damp or wet rating for use in humid, damp, or wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, covered porches, pool areas, and salt water zones.

Energy Star ceiling fans come in finishes that are sure to compliment the décor of any room. Fan blades and motor housings can be chosen to coordinate with just about any home décor also.
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Popular fan finishes include:

  • White
  • Black
  • Brushed Nickel
  • Chrome1886
  • Bronze
  • Walnut
  • Brushed Steel
  • Aluminum
  • Pewter

Read more about why to choose an Energy Star rated fan for your Home.

What Energy Star Products are Available?

Energy Star products come in a variety of styles that are sure to compliment any home décor. There is no need to sacrifice beauty when saving energy.

Energy Star Ceiling Fans:  Energy Star Ceiling Fans come from the following manufacturers rosswell

  • Fanimation
  • Minka-Aire
  • Modern Fan Company
  • Monte Carlo
  • Casablanca Fan Company
  • Savoy House
  • Emerson
  • Hunter
  • Kichler
  • Period Arts
  • Quorum
  • Sea Gull Lighting
  • Ellington
  • Craftmade

These fans were designed with both energy efficiency and style in mind. They all feature enhanced energy efficient technology such as improved motor and blade designs.

Energy Star Kitchen Lighting: The kitchen is a very popular place within most homes. It is a place to both cook and entertain, so it must be both well lit and comfortable. Nobody wants to stand in a kitchen that is overheated just from the lighting. Choose the right kitchen lighting that is perfect to illuminate the kitchen area and is also Energy Star rated.

es kitchen light
Choose Energy Star pendant lighting to light up a kitchen island counter top or bar. For overhead lighting that is both simple and beautiful many choose recessed lighting for use throughout the kitchen area. There is Under Cabinet lighting that is energy star rated as well as energy star flush mount lights. Light layering will make a kitchen bright and beautiful and with energy star products it won’t cost a fortune.

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Energy Star Bathroom Lighting: Bathrooms are most used for tasks such as grooming, makeup application, and bathing. You should be able to see well when you are in the bathroom without the area being over lighted or having a glare.

There are single, double, and triple vanity lights that are all energy star rated and excellent for use in smaller bathrooms. For a larger bathroom, there are Quad bath lights and oversize vanity lights that span in excess of 4 feet in length. These are perfect for a Master Bathroom with a large mirrored wall.

Energy Star Outdoor Lighting: A well lit yard brings beauty and class to any home, but a well lit yard should not equal an outrageous utility bill. Not only does Energy Star Outdoor lighting save you money,minka outdoor bronze there is also Energy Star outdoor lighting that is International Dark Sky Association compliant which means it reduces the amount of night sky pollution that is omitted from the lighting itself.

From Flush mount lighting for the lanai to wall mount lighting beside the garage door there are numerous energy star rated outdoor light fixtures available online. Post mount lighting may be used around the yard to light specific areas while a hanging light may be placed over an entrance way for safety and style.

ferros Energy Star Chandeliers: The chandelier is a statement of class and beauty that draws attention and adds flare to a room. With Energy Star Chandeliers a home can be more energy efficient without sacrificing beauty. Most Energy Star Chandeliers consume an average of 75% less energy than their standard counterparts. What this means is that you can light your dining area with an energy star chandelier and enjoy the same amount of light as you would from a standard chandelier model for a fraction of the cost.

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Energy Star Wall Sconces: A wall sconce can be used throughout the home anywhere that light is needed and there is not a lot of space. Not only do energy star wall sconces save up to 75% on light energy consumption they are also a great choice for areas such as bathrooms, hallways, kitchens and dining areas where additional light or ambient light is needed.

Energy Star Pendants: Pendants are an excellent source of decorative light. They are a great choice for kitchen areas as well as dining areas. Energy Star Pendant lighting is energy efficient, decorative, and functional. Not only do energy star pendants save you money, they also provide an excellent source of light throughout the home in areas where a chandelier or flush mount light may not be the style you are looking for.

light bulb energy star Energy Star Light Bulbs: Whenever you have Energy Star Lighting throughout the home you have the need for energy star light bulbs. These bulbs are known for providing warm, bright light without the high energy use of a standard light bulb. These bulbs last up to 10,000 hours which reduces the constant need to change light bulbs. This saves both time and money in the long run.

Energy Star light bulbs come in a variety of shapes and sizes that are sure to fit just about any light fixture. These bulbs alone can help you save on your utility bills and paired with Energy Star Rated light fixtures you will maximize your home’s overall energy savings.

Posted in Energy Star, Light Bulbs, Lighting | Leave a comment

Q and A on Outdoor Lighting

Posted on October 31, 2007 by colby
Question. There were some break-ins in my neighborhood this past year, so I want to install some outdoor security lighting which can also be used when entertaining.  What are my options and which outdoor light fixtures are energy efficient?

Answer. Installing outdoor lighting is one method of reducing the risk of nighttime break-ins, but it should be planned with a variety issues in mind.  Most outdoor lighting consumes a lot of electricity, contributes to global warming, and creates problems for nocturnal wild life.  Also, in many major cities outdoor lighting contributes to vast amounts of light pollution making it difficult to enjoy a starry night.  More information about light pollution and it’s effects can be found at IDA

What Makes a Good Energy  and Environmentally Efficient Outdoor Light?

The keys to energy and environmentally efficient outdoor lighting are selecting the proper type of bulb, light fixture design and shortest on-time period. Using just two 150-watt floodlights at night can increase your electric bills by up to $100.00 per year. With fixed floodlights, would-be thieves can often figure a way to get around them.
halogen outdoor lightIn areas where you will not need the lighting for entertaining, install motion-sensing light fixtures or add-on motion-sensing switches. This greatly reduces the amount of on-time, increases the bulb life and reduces light pollution. Since the light is not on when the intruder arrives, he does not know to avoid it until it switches on from his movement. This generally scares him away.
For areas where you want the outdoor lighting for both security and entertaining, select fixtures which direct the lighting downward in the specific areas needed. This minimizes light pollution in the night sky and may allow you to use lower wattage bulbs to save electricity.  Add-on shields are available for existing floodlights you have already have.
As you would indoors, use fluorescent tubes and CFLs (compact fluorescent lights) outdoors.  These are four times more energy efficient than standard incandescent bulbs and last 10 times longer.  The light quality is now available in similar color rendition.
Some CFL’s may not perform properly in temperatures under 32 degrees. If you find this to be a problem, use halogen bulbs or LEDs.  Halogen bulbs are not as efficient as CFL’s or LED’s, but they are 15 percent more efficient than standard incandescent bulbs and last twice as long.  Halogen bulbs produce a very white light which is excellent when entertaining and it may enhance the appearance of your landscaping.
metal halide outdoor lightAlthough they are substantially more expensive to install, LPS (low pressure sodium) outdoor lighting fixtures are very efficient.  They use less than 15 percent as much electricity as incandescent bulbs. The only drawback is that they take time to heat up and come to full brightness and the light is a no chromatic yellow.
The newest most expensive outdoor lighting uses LED light bulbs.  These LED’s use much less energy and last up to 50,000 hours.  They main problems are low light levels and cost.
Posted in Light Bulbs, Lighting | Leave a comment

What Type of Lamp Should I Use for My Recessed Lighting?

Posted on August 8, 2007 by colby
Light bulbs a.k.a. lamps are a very important factor in a recessed lighting layout plan. Different light bulbs affect different light levels, color and recessed fixture spacing, which in turn could result in different moods.  In the end choosing the lamp is just as important as choosing the right recessed light fixture.

Here are a few questions you should ask your self at this level of your recessed lighting layout.

  • Do you want the room to feel warm and cozy?  Or Bright and efficient?
  • Will the space in your project be for performing tasks, or will it be a relaxed space just needing light to walk through safely?
  • Do you have artwork, statues or entry ways that need special lighting techniques to emphasize their presents.

Different Types of Light Bulbs and their Effects

NOTE: Lamp size is calculated by the number of 1/8 inch units across the widest part of the glass casing.  Example – A21 = 21 one-eighth-inch units across, which is (2-5/8″ across)

incandescent A lampIncandescent A-Lamps

  • These lamps create a warm amber light with a good color rendition.  Light shines in all directions with this light bulb so this light should be used for general, ambient or wall washing applications.  A-Lamps work best with a reflector in the recessed trim.  A-Lamps can be used with a light dimmer to create a softer light.  Low bulb cost – .99 to $ 1.39
  • Sizes = A15, A17, A19 (most Common) and A21
  • Lamp Life = 750 to 1250 hours
  • The A-Lamp is available in compact fluorescent energy saving lamps starting at $ 5.99 and has a lamp life of 7000 hours.  (compact fluorescent lamps can not be used with a light dimmer)

Incandescent BR and R lampsBR30 lamp

  • BR and R lamps create a warm amber light with a good color rendition. A reflector is built-in to the lamp that directs light where needed.   BR and R lamps should be used for general, ambient, task, accent, grazing or wallwashing applications.  BR and R lamps can be used with a light dimmer to create a softer light.  Low bulb cost - $ 1.39 to $ 2.39
  • Sizes = R20, BR30 and BR40
  • Lamp Life = 1500 to 2000 hours
  • The R and BR lamps are available in compact fluorescent energy saving lamps starting at $ 6.39 and have a lamp life of 7000 hours.  (compact fluorescent lamps can not be used with a light dimmer)

Halogen PAR lamps halogen par lamp

  • PAR lamps create a bright white light with true color rendition.  A reflector is built-in to the lamp for very good light beam control.   Halogen PAR lamps should be used for general, ambient, task, accent, grazing or wallwashing applications.  Halogen lamps can be used with a light dimmer to create a softer light.  High bulb cost - $ 4.39 to $ 8.39
  • Sizes = PAR16, PAR20, PAR30 and PAR38
  • Lamp Life = 3000 to 4000 hours

Low-Voltage Halogen lamps mr16 lamp

  • These lamps create a bright white light with true color rendition.  A reflector is built-in to the lamp for very good light beam control.  Low Voltage lamps have the best control of light output.  Low-Voltage lamps require a step down transformer from 120volts to 12 volts.  Low-Voltage lamps should be used for task, accent, grazing or wallwashing applications.  Low-Voltage lamps can be used special low-voltage light dimmers to create a softer light.  High bulb cost - $ 4.39 to $ 8.39 (fixture cost is usually a little more expensive as well)
  • Sizes = MR16, AR11 and PAR36
  • Lamp Life = 3000 to 4000 hours
  • Low-Voltage Bi-pin halogen bulbs are available in LED energy saving lamps starting at $ 36.39 and have a lamp life of 40,000 hours.

Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL)4-pin compact=

  • CFLs consume up to 75% less energy than incandescent and halogen lamps.  CFLs create a cool white light with a low color rendition although, technologies on CFLs are improving to provide softer light and better color rendition.  Light shines in all directions with this light bulb so this light should be used for general, ambient or wallwashing applications unless you use the R Lamp type CFLs that include a built-in reflector.  CFLs work best with a reflector in the recessed trim.  High bulb cost – $ 3.99 to $ 8.39
  • Styles = 2-pin, 4-pin, candelabra base and medium base
  • Lamp Life = 7000 hours

Suggested Light Levels for Various Applications

General or Ambient Recessed Lighting Layout
general recessed lighting

Should use low to medium light levels (5 to 20 foot candles).  We Suggest using these lamps:

  • A Lamps or BR30 lamps for ceilings 10′ or lower
  • BR40, PAR30 or PAR38 for ceilings 10′ or higher
  • Medium based R type CFLs (can not be used with a light dimmer)

With an 8 foot ceiling, space fixtures 3 feet from the walls and 6 to 7 feet apart in a balanced pattern.   With a 9 foot ceiling, space fixtures 3.5 feet from the walls and 7 to 8 feet apart in a balanced pattern.

My past post on lighting design software can assist you with a computer generated recessed lighting layout.
Task Recessed Lighting Layout recessed task lighting

Should use medium to high light levels (35 to 55 foot candles).  We Suggest using these lamps:

  • PAR30 lamps for ceilings 10′ or lower
  • PAR38 for ceilings 10′ or higher

With an 8 foot ceiling, space fixtures 3 feet apart, with a 10 foot ceiling, space fixtures 4 feet apart positioned over the edge of the work space to avoid shadowing.

Accent Recessed Lighting Layout
recessed accent lighting

Should 4 to 5 times more intense than the general or ambient light levels (60 to 100 foot candles).  We Suggest using these lamps:

  • PAR30 or MR16 lamps for ceilings 10′ or lower
  • PAR38 or PAR36 for ceilings 10′ or higher

With an 8 foot ceiling, space fixtures 18 – 24″ from wall, with a 10 foot ceiling, space fixtures 30 – 36″ from wall.   Light framed art and photos at a 30 degree angle from the suggested distance from the wall.  When lighting a free standing object use two lights from each side for a more dramatic appearance.

Wallwashing Recessed Lighting Layout recessed wallwashing

Should provide an even light level across wall with evenly spaced fixtures (35 to 55 foot candles).  We Suggest using these lamps:

  • A19 lamps or Compact Fluorescent Lamps

Space fixtures 3 feet from the wall and 3 feet apart for even light distribution.  Washing a wall gives you the feeling of a larger room.

Grazing Recessed Lighting Layout recessed grazing

Should emphasize wall textures with a shadowed appearance (20 to 25 foot candles).  We Suggest using these lamps:

  • BR30, PAR30 or CFL

Space fixtures 6 – 9″ from the wall and 12 – 18″ apart for even light distribution.  Grazing a brick, stone or heavy textured wall gives a deep shadow and light effect that will run down the vertical length of the wall.

These suggestions should assist you in understanding which light bulb you will want to use for your recessed downlight layout and you should know what type of light function you will want your recessed lighting to perform:  General, Task, Accent, Wallwash or Grazing

All lighting function images and some research has been provided by American Lighting Association
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Are you Recycling your Fluorescent Lamps?

Posted on July 13, 2007 by colby

Did you know that fluorescent tubes, compact fluorescent lamps and high intensity discharge (HID) lamps all contain mercury?

Yes, fluorescent tubes, compact fluorescent lamps and HID lamps are very efficient and are for the greater good of the Earth’s future; they reduce energy consumption and save you money.  But, they must be recycled or disposed of professionally because they contain mercury.

In California all Fluorescent Lamps must be Recycled as of February 8th, 2006

On February 8th, 2006 a bill was passed that said all fluorescent lamps and tubes are considered hazardous waste in California when they are discarded because they contain mercury.  (Title 22, division 4.5, chapter 11, section 66261.50)

These lamps must be recycled and disposed of correctly

  • Fluorescent Tubes
  • Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) compact fluorescent lamp
  • High Intensity Discharge (HID) Lamps

Every time a mercury containing lamp is disposed of in the regular trash and picked up for disposal, the lamps or tubes are broken and the mercury in them is released in to the environment.  These mercury vapors from the lamps can be absorbed through the lungs and bloodstream.  Mercury from broken lamps can also be washed into our rain water and eventually our public waterways.

The effects of mercury poisoning are felt in the nervous system, endocrine, kidneys and other vital organs.  Heavy exposure can lead to brain damage or ultimately death.

Effective July 12, 2005 New York began prohibiting mercury containing lamps from being discarded.

Where should you recycle your Mercury-Containing Lamps?

The recycling of mercury-containing lamps is not as popular as it should be.  Of the 670 million lamps discarded last year only 156 million are being recycled.  There are some places that you can bring your lamps to and you can find those locations from the State Lamp Recycling Regulations and Contacts.

If you do not live close enough to a Lamp Recycling facility then EasyPak can pick them up for you and show you exactly how to begin.

Posted in Light Bulbs, Lighting | Leave a comment