PLAN FOR ECONOMY

Switching: Arranging switching so that only those lights which are required at a particular time or place are operated.

The use of two-way or multi-way switching for passageways, stairwells and rooms with more than one entry provides convenience and the lights for home safety. Lighting controls should always be readily accessible.

Dimming: Consideration should be given to using dimmer controls in most multi purpose rooms, not only for setting the mood but for saving power.

Fluorescents: Fluorescent lamps are about four times as efficient and incandescent lamps and have a much longer life. They are readily available in a wide range of shapes and sizes to suit a variety of decorative fixtures and downlights. White fluorescent lamps are available in a variety of tones and care should be taken to ensure that colour rendering of the lamp and lamp shade chosen, complements the colour scheme of the room.

Natural Light: Skylights can be used to advantage in windowless rooms, or poorly lit rooms, such as kitchens where extra daylight can be most attractive and can also save power. Artificial lighting can be incorporated in skylights if necessary.

Extra Low Voltage Lighting

Very pleasing effects can be achieved by the usage of extra low voltage outdoor lighting fittings in and around the home and garden areas. They need to be placed strategically to highlight plants, garden paths, trees etc. and in a well designed landscape would be dotted around amongst plants and trees and used to define garden paths.

Once advantage with this system is that it is not necessary to disturb an existing garden layout to install extra low voltage fittings.

Power Outlets

Ensure that sufficient power outlets are provided – with a thought to future needs. It is also advisable to install double or multi-way outlets to avoid the use of double adaptors. Though should also be given to additional power points in study areas for computers etc.

FLUORESCENT LIGHT

The harsh light of fluorescents in the past has given them a bad name, but today's fluorescents are colour rendered to produce a range of light from warm (like a regular incandescent light) to cool (like daylight).

Bulky and unattractive tubes have been superseded by compact fluorescent bulbs that can be used like standard light bulbs. Look for the ‘energy saver’ labels.

Fluorescents are the most cost effective energy efficient light sources to use for home lighting. The bulbs cost more to buy, but they consume up to five times less energy and last for up to eight times as long. For instance, a 75 watt incandescent bulb can be replaced with a 15-watt compact fluorescent.

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) are great to areas where lights need to be left on for long periods (front door security, for instance) or in utility areas, such as kitchens, bathroom, laundries and hallways, where an even light is required. Compact fluorescents can be used in a variety of fittings. Select the type of CFL carefully, many cannot be dimmed – so where you need it, select a dimmable type.

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