Lighting is a design element that can create the most luxurious, clean effect with a low amount of effort. It provides the “seasoning” to a room, and gives it the overall breath and life once every other detail is in place.
However, lighting efficiently, while still being beautiful, can be difficult as some people are unaware of electricity costs with their lighting choices. Especially if you live in one of the New England states like New York, or places like California, Hawaii, or Alaska, your electricity costs can be a substantial portion of your budget. Consider these design and money saving tips as you complete your home’s looks.
Time to Switch to LED
If you have been holding off on switching to LED while waiting for the price to go down, it’s now time to make the change. Prices have dropped significantly over the last few years, and the initial price shock many experienced when first looking into the revolutionary LED lights no longer exists.
Sure, the bulbs and lights are still more expensive than incandescent lights and traditional options, but now you can recoup the savings much faster than in the past – months instead of years. Especially for lights located on walls and in ceilings that tend to be on for longer amounts of time during the day (more than two hours), consider using LED lighting options.
Only Use What You Need
With opportunities for cost savings by using LED lighting and bulbs, many people may be inclined to light areas they wouldn’t normally light if it weren’t for the cheap prices. But more light doesn’t always equate to better light. Fortunately, there is a way you can provide lighting just for when and how much you need it.
First, work with a reputable electrician or a supplier who can help you plan your design based on the overall lumens (or brightness), the range of the lights (or the width of the beam of light), and the right color for the space. They also consider the uniformity or smoothness of the lighting for the required tasks.
Having an electrician on your side when selecting your lighting can save you a lot of money in helping you avoid unnecessary purchases when you have a design based on first-hand knowledge. Knowledgeable and experienced electricians receive training to focus on the quality, rather than the quantity, of the lighting to make sure you design an energy-efficient home.
Next, consider installing dimmable options like LED recessed downlights so you can adjust your lighting and energy needs accordingly. When you match dimming capability with smaller, task lights, you are giving yourself the ideal option for only using what you need. Try under-counter LED lights for a kitchen desk or recipe area. Use a wall light or LED wallpack for an outdoor entertainment area.
Light with Your Materials in Mind
Be sure to check your design materials under your selected lighting or vice versa. Colors and lighting can look incredibly different in different scenarios:
- If your elements include warm wood tones, copper, or bronze, select lighting in the warm range of 2700-3500 kelvin (K) range.
- For stainless steel, glass tile, gray walls, or metal colors, select cooler lighting in the 3500-5000 K range.
Author bio
Gilbert Cabrales has been with CS LED since its inception in 2008, first as an employee and then as a valued partner. Gilbert has vast experience in both lighting and electrical work and has a unique method for collaborating with his clients. He doesn’t stop at the sale. Instead, he works to truly connect with his clients and remains a resource throughout the lifespan of each one of their lighting projects. From design to implementation and beyond, you can count on “Gil” to deliver LED expertise and true partnership capabilities.
Images courtesy of Pixabay