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% 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/or ceiling fans through out the main areas of a home. When you use energy star products throughout your home you are saving money, saving energy, and saving the planet all at the same time.
Although these products were once limited in selection, they are now available in a styles that fit any lifestyle. Energy star products come in a variety of shapes and styles that are sure to fit just about any décor. There is no need to sacrifice beauty when saving energy.
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.
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. 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 products are specifically designed to use less energy, save money, and help protect the environment. There are more than 50 product categories each with numerous energy star qualified products for the home.
Energy Star Lighting Save 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.
 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 and ceiling fans. These utilities are 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 you save the Earth.
Energy star lighting 
- 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
Just replacing the light bulbs of the 5 highest used lights through out your home with energy star bulbs will provide savings, but for maximum savings it is best to replace the fixtures also. By replacing the 5 most used light fixtures throughout the home with energy efficient models that have earned the energy star rating, and using energy star light bulbs you can be on your way to maximum energy savings.
Energy Star Products Fit Any Lifestyle
Today there are energy star products that are sure to fit any lifestyle. 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 fit any décor in the home.
Energy star lighting can be used throughout the home to increase energy efficiency within the home and to add beauty. There are hundreds of different energy star lighting products that are sure to fit any taste. From elegant chandeliers to simple flush 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:
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%.
Energy star ceiling fans are available in many of the same styles that standard ceiling fans come in. 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.
Popular fan finishes include:
- Chrome
Read More about Why Choose an Energy Star Rated Fan for your Home.
What Energy Star Lighting is Available?
Now that you know how much money you can save by using energy star products, you are probably asking the question—“Where can I find these products?” Local lighting showrooms or online lighting distributors.
Open your local phone directory and look under lighting or open an internet browser type in Google then type in the search bar Energy Star lighting. From light fixtures to ceiling fans you will find beautiful products that are sure to help you on your way to saving both your wallet and the earth at the same time.
Energy Star Ceiling Fans: Energy Star Ceiling Fans come from the following manufacturers 
These fans were designed with both energy efficiency and style in mind. They all feature enhanced energy efficient technology such as improved motor design and improved blades.
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 kitchen lighting to see Energy Star Lighting Products that are perfect for lighting the kitchen area and maintaining class and comfort.
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. A combination of light sources will make a kitchen bright and beautiful and with energy star products it won’t cost a fortune.
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 the bathroom. For a large area, 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, there is also Energy Star outdoor lighting that is International Dark Sky Association complaint 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.
 Energy Star Chandeliers: The chandelier is a statement of class and beauty that draws attention 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.
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 an excellent 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.
 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 an Energy Star Rated light fixture energy star light bulbs will help you to maximize your home’s overall energy savings.
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 Article created on Jul 14 by marylmphr
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 When it comes to saving the Planet an Energy Star fan is the way to go. These fans can be used to reduce energy consumption throughout the home both easily and effectively. Although an Energy Star ceiling fan looks just like a standard ceiling fan model, the components within the fan are far different.
All Energy Star Ceiling fans feature energy efficient technology that is a cut above the rest in the ceiling fan industry. The fans are designed with maximum energy conservation in mind every step of the way. What this means to the final consumer is that by using an Energy Star rated ceiling fan in the home you are not only afforded comfort and style, but you are saving the planet at the same time.
By using an Energy Star ceiling fan and conserving energy, you are helping to reduce the overuse of fossil fuels that cannot be replaced in the environment. The reduction of energy consumption over time can greatly reduce the amount of pollution that is released into the atmosphere. Reduced pollution results in an increase in the chance that the planet will last for many years to come.
With an Energy Star fan you get to save money, save electricity, reduce consumption of valuable fossil fuels, prevent harmful pollution from corroding the atmosphere, and add class to any room in your home. Although there was a time when energy efficiency meant that you had to sacrifice style or beauty, that time has long passed. Today, Energy Star fans are both beautiful and stylish while maintaining energy efficiency standards.
Energy Star Fans Feature Energy Efficient Technology
Energy Star fans also operate more efficiently thanks to improved blade designs. The blades of an Energy Star fan are pitched at precisely the right angle for maximum energy efficiency. Most Energy Star have blades that are pitched around 14 degrees. The blade pitch makes for excellent air movement efficiency when paired with a motor that is equally efficient and powerful enough to move the blades without overworking.
A curved fan blade design will move more air per minute than flat blades. In addition to greater air movement, these blades will put less wear and tear on a motor. The fan motor can operate at a lower speed with curved blades and still achieve adequate air movement in a room.
Energy Star ceiling fans use improved motors to increase overall energy efficiency. These motors are built to last longer, run quieter, and use less energy than a standard ceiling fan motor. A conventional ceiling fan motor is only able to convert 1-2% of the energy it uses into beneficial air movement while the average energy star rated fan is able to convert about 50% of the energy that the motor uses into air movement.
Energy Star fans come with advanced remote control that can be used to turn the fan on and off or adjust the speed based on room temperature. Some fans even come with motion sensors that will automatically turn the fan off or on when someone walks into the room. This feature will help eliminate even more wasted energy by making sure that a fan is not left on when there is nobody in the room to enjoy the benefits.
Energy Star Fans Save You Money
 Energy Star rated fans move air up to twenty percent more efficiently than conventional ceiling fan models. This means that an Energy Star fan can move the same amount of air as a standard fan while using as little as half of the electricity that a standard model would use. The result—increased comfort for a fraction of the price.
Energy Star ceiling fans consume about half of the power that a conventional ceiling fan would consume through average daily use. This amounts up to an annual savings of approximately $15-20 or as much as $30 depending on the region that the fan is used in. Even more savings can be realized overtime with the use of multiple Energy Star fans in a household.
Another way that an Energy Star ceiling fan save money is through the additional air conditioning and heating savings that can be realized when a ceiling fan is in use. With a ceiling fan in a room moving adequate air, the thermostat of the air conditioner in the summer months may be increased about 5 degrees and the room will still feel comfortable. The same savings may be seen during the winter months when the use of a ceiling fan allows you to lower the heating by 3-5 degrees.
Not only do you save on your utility bill when you install Energy Star ceiling fans in your home, you can also save even more money with an Energy Star qualified fan just because the fan is backed by an excellent warranty. In order for a ceiling fan to receive the Energy Star approval it must come with a minimum warranty of 30 years on the motor and at least one year for all other parts and components. What this means to the consumer is that every Energy Star fan that they purchase will carry a minimum warranty with many models offering increased warranty coverage.
Tips for Conserving Energy with an Energy Star Ceiling Fan
Some of the best blade and motor designs are said to be 3-9 times more efficient than the worst models. What this means is that although there are many Energy Star fans on the market, there is still a very vast range between the most efficient models and the least efficient models. There are a few things that you can consider when making the decision to purchase an Energy Star ceiling fan, such as air flow efficiency and blade pitch as well as motor efficiency.
When looking to purchase an Energy Star fan to conserve energy, pay close attention to air flow efficiency of the fan. Airflow efficiency is measured in Cubic Feet per Minute per Watt otherwise known as CFM/watt. This measurement of efficiency is given at each of the fans three speeds—high, medium, and low. You can find the air flow efficiency measurement in a special information box on all Energy Star labeled fan packages.
The air flow efficiency makes it easy to compare models side by side. The energy savings over the life of the fan can be greatly increased just by using a fan with a higher air flow efficiency factor. Keep in mind that in order for a fan to be considered for the Energy Star rating it must have an air flow efficiency of at least 155 CFM/watt at low speed, at least 100 CFM/watt at medium speed, and at least 75 CFM/watt when operated on high speed.
Turn Fan Off When Leaving the Room
 Ceiling fans cool by creating a low-level “wind chill” effect throughout the room. In rooms where indoor humidity is not really high, the “wind chill” effect that is produced by a ceiling fan can be very comforting. Just remember:
A ceiling fan only cools your body temperature and not the air within the room. The circulation from a fan creates a wind chill effect that is felt on human skin and does not actually lower room temperature. This wind chill effect is only noticeable if you are in the room so it is important that when trying to conserve energy you only use a ceiling fan when you are in the room.
More on Ceiling Fan Energy Efficiency
Save Even More with Energy Efficient Lighting
While ceiling fans can be substantial energy savers, the use of an Energy Star rated ceiling fan with lighting that is not energy star qualified can substantially increase energy use. It is important to use an Energy Star qualified light kit in order to keep the energy savings.
Energy Star.Gov states that you can dramatically increase the energy savings by not only using an Energy Star rated ceiling fan but also by using an Energy Star qualified light kit with the fan. Since most ceiling fan lights are used an average of 4 hours or more a day, the savings that can be realized through the use of Energy Star lighting attached to a ceiling fan can be very significant.
 The average ceiling fan light kit consumes approximately 300kwh/year while the average Energy Star rated light kit cuts consumption to approximately 120kwh/year. About 80% of the possible energy savings from a more efficient ceiling fan come from the lighting. By using Energy Star lighting with your Energy Star fan, you will save 60-80% and you will change light bulbs less often.
Just like the stringent requirements that are required of the Environmental Protection Agency regarding Energy Star Ceiling fans and the new EPACT many similar requirements must be met when qualifying a compatible light kit. The following is a list of the requirements for ceiling fan lighting to receive the Energy Star logo.
- All Light bulbs that come with a qualified Energy Star ceiling fan light kit must have a minimum average rated life of greater to or at least equal to10,000 hours
- All lamps should include a manufacturer designation that states manufacturer name, wattage, correlated color temperature, and color rendering index that must be labeled on the lamp or base
- Light kits which include dimming must be able to be dimmed from a factor of 100% down to 30% or less of maximum light output, or be able to be switched from three levels of brightness not including the off position.
- All ceiling fan light kits must come with a minimum of a two year warranty in order to be qualified to receive the Energy Star. This warranty should cover repair or replacement of defective parts of the light kit
Energy Star Fans Add Style to Any Room
Increase the comfort and style in any room of the house with an Energy Star ceiling fan. Not only will you be saving money and the planet, but you can add beauty and class to just about any space with the addition of an Energy Star ceiling fan.
 Modern Fan Company offers numerous Energy Star fan styles that fall within varied price points that are sure to be acceptable to most consumers. Currently, over half of Modern Fan Company’s products meet or exceed the criteria set by Energy Star.
Sophisticated designs such as the Altus fan with a blade pitch of 12 degrees are commonplace from Modern Fan Company. The Altus features a shape that is geometrically attractive and natural in appearance. This fan is perfect for just about any room in the home and will not take away from the décor.
For damp or humid environments such as the bathroom, kitchen, or even a covered porch area, the Ball comes in a UL damp rating which makes it safe for use in such environments. This popular model incorporates the simplicity of a perfect sphere that houses the motor. Four blades pitched at 12 degrees and spanning 52 inches make this fan an excellent choice for air movement.
Other Energy Efficient models fall within styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Such styles add class and comfort to any room in the home without sacrificing energy savings.
For a contemporary look, the Alchemy ceiling fan from Hunter Fan Company is the way to go. Featuring five blades and four finish options this fan is a great choice for a living area or bedroom. The 15 degree blade pitch paired with a light kit that is also Energy Star qualified allow for maximum energy efficiency.
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Article created on Jul 11 by marylmphr
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The ceiling fan was first introduced to the United States during the late 1800’s, but it was nothing like the typical ceiling fan that we see in so many households today. Although Michael Faraday, the great inventor of the 1800’s, had already invented the first electric motor by the year 1820, the first ceiling fans were not powered by electricity at all. They were instead the powered by a stream of water and a turbine that drove a vast system of belts that would turn the blades of these early two blade fan models.
 Early ceiling fans were seemingly expensive and not ideal for homes. They were mostly seen in restaurants, stores, and offices in the southern United States where temperatures were the hottest. It was during the late 1970’s, after the energy crisis, that the ceiling fan became increasingly popular within the United States. Ceiling fans became more popular at this time because they consumed far less energy than air conditioning. During this time, companies such as Casablanca Fan Co., which still dominate the ceiling fan business today, began increased production of ceiling fans to be marketed to the United States as well as other countries around the world.
Over time, air conditioning became more available and affordable, and the use of ceiling fans as the primary home cooling source declined. However, due to the recent rise in energy costs, and an increase in consumer awareness to the need to conserve energy, ceiling fan use is once again on the upward slope. With the many efficiencies that are produced by just one ceiling fan, it is no wonder that this appliance has become a staple to most households.
The Ceiling Fan Wind-Chill Effect
“Wind chill is the apparent temperature felt on exposed skin due to the combination of air temperature and wind speed.”
We often think of wind chill only in terms of winter weather issues such as, the wind chill factor making the temperature outside “feel” like it is freezing, or factoring in the wind chill to develop a new idea of outdoor temperature. We don’t typically think about a wind chill in a positive way such as that which is caused by using a ceiling fan during the warm summer months. However, a ceiling fan creates a wind chill factor that is both comfortable and desirable during the hot and often sticky summer months.
When operated in the NORMAL direction (counter-clockwise), ceiling fans move the air which helps to evaporate moisture from the skin. The evaporation of moisture from our skin helps create a cooling effect, otherwise known as a wind chill effect. In essence, this wind chill effect makes us “feel” like the air is much cooler than it actually is by cooling off body temperature.
The use of a ceiling fan creates a wind chill effect that can make you feel up to 8 degrees cooler than the air around you. This means that in a room with a stifling temperature of 78 degrees which is not very comfortable, the use of a ceiling fan could increase comfort by making the room feel like a cool 70 degrees. In return, the air conditioning thermostat can be set to a higher temperature and the room will continue to feel cooler thanks to the air circulation caused by the ceiling fan.
Lower Heating and Cooling Costs
By raising the thermostat during the summer months, the average American household could save as much as 40% on their air conditioning bill. However this is not the only time that a ceiling fan can help save money. Ceiling fans should also be used to reduce energy costs during the winter months.
Although we certainly do not want to create a wind chill effect during the already cold winter, with proper use a ceiling fan can help create a warming effect as well. When operated in the REVERSE (clockwise) direction on a low speed, a ceiling fan creates a gentle upward draft which circulates the hot air that often gets trapped at the ceiling. The fan pushes the warm air down from the ceiling toward the room’s occupants. Especially in rooms with cathedral type or high ceilings, the use of a ceiling fan can provide even, comfortable heat throughout an otherwise uncomfortable room.
Casablanca Fan suggests that “the re-circulation of warm air as caused by a ceiling fan allows you to lower the room’s thermostat setting.” The result of operating a ceiling fan in the REVERSE direction and pushing the warm air back down to floor level is a more effective use of the home’s heating system as well as lower energy consumption. This can save the average American household an additional 10% on heating costs during the winter months.
Ceiling Fans Reduce Energy Consumption
Ceiling fans are very energy efficient. In fact, Ron Rezek, an industrial designer who owns the Modern Fan Company, claims that a ceiling fan uses about the same amount of energy as the average 25-100 watt light bulb. Furthermore, the American Lighting Association or ALA as well as the Department of Energy have taken steps to assure that all ceiling fan manufacturers begin labeling products with a standard format making it easier for consumers to make smart choices regarding fan efficiency.
Beginning in January 2009, “all ceiling fan cartons, brochures, catalogs and Web sites will be required to provide the products electrical usage at high speed expressed in CFM.”(New Laws…) The labeling system will contain information for the consumer to make an informed purchase decision based on electricity use described in watts, the amount of air the fan will move described in CFM (cubic feet moved per minute), and airflow efficiency expressed in CFM/Watt (amount of air the product will move per watt of electricity). (Appliance Labeling Rule)
The use of a ceiling fan reduces the amount of energy consumed in a home by allowing us to increase the thermostat in the summer months, and lower it during winter months. Andrew Fanara of the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star Program says that since “the energy we use in our homes often comes from the burning of fossil fuels at power plants, which contributes to smog, acid rain, and global warming. So the less energy we use in our homes, the less air pollution we generate.” By consuming less energy, fewer CO2 emissions are released into the Earth’s atmosphere from the burning of fossil fuels. The reduction of CO2 emissions can greatly prolong the life of the Earth by slowing the effects of global warming.
Casablanca Fan Company suggests that “there are differences one should consider when seeking quality, lasting performance and value,” from a ceiling fan. The motor is one of the most important components of the fan in terms of efficiency. An undersized motor that is poorly constructed can lead to higher operating temperatures, humming and clicking, thus drastically reducing efficiency and possibly increasing energy consumption. “The powerful Casablanca ceiling fan motors move more cubic feet of air per minute (CFMs) while using significantly less energy.”
“Casablanca Fan Company is dedicated to creating fans that work smarter, not harder, so that each element is fine-tuned to contribute to overall savings in energy costs.” There are many ceiling fans available that are also Energy Star qualified providing greater energy efficiency. With efficiencies like this it seems inefficient for a home not to be equipped with ceiling fans throughout its rooms.
Ceiling Fans produce a Calming Effect
Aside from the comfort that a ceiling can provide, and the energy efficiencies that are afforded through proper ceiling fan use, there is another great quality provided by ceiling fans: the calming sound of the air circulating. Many people sleep better with the sound of a fan humming above and the feel of the air circulating around them. The calming effect produced by a ceiling fan can evoke deep sleep.
Ceiling Fans for All Environments
Today there are ceiling fans that are suitable for most every environment. Ceiling fans are available in both indoor model and outdoor ceiling fan model types. They are made to resist weather conditions and climate issues such as salt in the air in beachside locations or moisture in the air outside or in a bathroom. Outdoor fans come with a Wet or Damp rating and can be used in areas that are covered or uncovered.
Fans come in various sizes and styles. The average ceiling fan blade span ranges from 30 inches up to 60 inches. It is important to install a fan that has a blade span large enough to move the most air within the room without being so large as to become a hazard. There should be adequate space around the fan to promote rotation that is free of obstruction.
Casablanca Fan Company offers a variety of fans that range from contemporary ceiling fan models to traditional ceiling fan models. They offer ornamental styles with a hand carved look, period classics such as the 19th century or Victorian look, as well as casual look and décor specific for the designer home. Teamed with Energy Star efficiency, elegance, and comfort, Casablanca ceiling fans to fit just about anywhere.
If you are looking to make your whole home more energy efficient you might like to learn How to Make the Lighting in Your Home More Energy Efficient
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Article created on Jan 16 by marylmphr
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Money is tight now and our earth's ecosystem is suffering because of the way humans have abused our energy sources. This problem has grown out of control and we are already starting to see the effects it is having in the most north and south regions of the world. The over use of our current energy sources are polluting our atmosphere and are creating a warming trend that will soon devastate the coastal areas that many people live in. I believe that there is still something that we as individuals can do.
Why Should we be Concerned About Light Energy Consumption?
We use lighting every day and every night whether you are from the North Pole, Asia, America or anywhere else in the world, light in all forms is used for many reasons. People use light for safety, ambiance, performing tasks, driving at night, late night construction, looking in a drain pipe for that lost piece of jewelry or countless other things. Light sources come in many different forms from the kerosene lanterns used in rural villages in India to the high powered high pressure sodium highway street lights in Orlando, Florida
Anyway we look at it, luminous light output is an energy source that we have the ability to control with simple changes. These simple changes start with one person and take very little effort at all. Take this educated statistic in for example:
If every American home changed out just five high-use light fixtures or the bulbs in them with ones that have earned the ENERGY STAR Rating, each family would save about $60 every year in energy costs, and together we’d save about $6.5 billion each year in energy costs and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions from more than 8 million cars. Said by Energy Star
This has to start with us as an individual.
Energy Star Light Technology is Changing
Years ago fluorescent lighting was thought of as that draining office light that took all the energy out of you. The problem is that the light sources were so efficient that that theory lasted as long as the lamps did. Most of these older fluorescent energy efficient lamps have a higher Kelvin temperature in the high 4000Ks resulting in a blue toned, harsh and bright light output. Most incandescent (most inefficient light source outside of fire) lamps have a warmer 2500K to 2800K producing a more intimate light output.
Below is Kelvin temperature description:
- 1800K - Very warm - Candle or a clear sunset
- 2700K - Warm - Average incandescent lamp
- 3500K - Reddish white - Theatrical Lighting
- 4100K - Cool - Most fluorescent lamps
- 5000K - Very Cool - Clear Summer day light
- 7500K - Icy Blue white - Standing on one of our melting glaciers
Today fluorescent lamp technology is readily available in warmer tones matching the intimate incandescent light output color. As well fluorescent lamps are available with dimmable ballasts that allow the user to reduce and intensify the light output.
What Lighting Changes can You make?
By making a simple plan and a few simple lighting fixture changes you can help.
Let me first give examples of different types of light sources which are also called lamps or bulbs. Annual energy cost is calculated at $.08 per kilowatt-hour.
 Incandescent light source - average life is about 500 to 1500 hours or 6 months to a year - this is the least efficient light source other than fire. A 75watt lamp running for 2000 hours in a year would have an annual energy cost of about $ 18.00 and you would have already had to change the lamp. Low initial cost.  Halogen light source - average life is about 2000 to 5000 hours or 2 to 3 years - Halogen lamps are about 10-15% more energy efficient than incandescent light sources. Medium to high initial cost.  Fluorescent or compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) – average life is about 6000 to 10000 hours or about 3.5 to 7 years. Energy Star rated light fixtures and sources must last up to 10000 hours or 7 years. Fluorescent light sources are up to five times more energy efficient than incandescent. Medium to high initial cost.
The steps below will show you how a few simple changes can increase the energy efficiency in your home.
First, identify the parts of your home where you use the most light. Typically the most light is used in the laundry room, kitchen and bathroom. Closets, home offices and breakfast areas use a lot of light but usually not for long periods of time.
Second, make a list of the different types of light sources used and then the different types of sockets in the areas of the most light used. The two main types of incandescent lamp sockets are medium base and candelabra base.
Third, if you do not want to change the existing light fixtures in these areas then most of the time you can just change out the regular incandescent lamps to a more energy efficient lamp (fluorescent or halogen lamp). And or you can combine energy efficient light sources with dimmable light sources.
Light dimming is also an easy way to extend incandescent lamp life and increase energy efficiency. By extending the lamp life you reduce the amount of times you need to replace the lamp. This reduces the labor involved in relamping and also reduces the materials used to manufacture new lamps.
Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are available with medium based sockets and candelabra based sockets. CFLs come in 3-way (low, medium and high light levels), dimmable and standard models. These CFLs are also now available in the 2700-3000 Kelvin temperatures to match the intimate color out put of the incandescent light sources. The cost of CFLs range from $ 6-14.00 and you can even purchase them at your local supermarket.
These small changes in your home can make major impacts on our Earth’s future.
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Article created on Apr 27 by colby
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BlogLighting.com is an information resource to help people solve and troubleshoot there lighting and ceiling fan problems and current information on the best lighting and ceiling fan manufacturers.
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