Lighting Fixures that Save

Lighting creates mood and atmosphere, giving your home character. Lighting fixtures and bulbs are another great opportunity for easy green renovation in your home. The "big thing" in green lighting right now is the compact fluorescent light bulb, or CFL. An ENERGY STAR® rated CFL, while initially costing more than an incandescent light  bulb, will quickly pay for itself by using up to 75% less electricity, and lasting ten times longer. Another emerging  technology in green lighting is the light-emitting diode, more commonly known as LED. Like CFL's, they too use 75% less energy than an incandescent light bulb, and may last up to 25 times longer. Keep in mind that ENERGY STAR qualified lighting provides bright, warm light while it requires 2/3 less energy than standard lighting, generates 70% less heat, and lasts up to 10 times longer. ENERGY STAR qualified fixtures are available in hundreds of popular styles. To save the most energy and money, replace your highest used fixtures or the light bulbs in them with energy-efficient models. The 5 highest-use fixtures in a home are typically the kitchen ceiling light, the living room table and floor lamps, bathroom vanity, and outdoor porch or post lamp.