Efficient Lighting

Lighting technology has transformed in recent years. LED bulbs now provide warm, pleasant light at a fraction of the energy use of older technologies. If you haven't upgraded your lighting, it's one of the easiest efficiency improvements you can make.

Why LEDs

Energy Use

LED bulbs use dramatically less energy than older bulb types:

• About 75-80% less energy than incandescent
• About 25-30% less than CFLs (compact fluorescent)
• Convert more energy to light, less to heat

Longevity

• LED bulbs last years, not months
• Typically rated for 15,000-25,000+ hours
• Fewer replacements over time

Light Quality

• Modern LEDs produce warm, natural-looking light
• Available in various color temperatures (warm to cool)
• Instant on—no warm-up time like older CFLs
• Dimmable versions available

Choosing LED Bulbs

Brightness (Lumens)

Lumens measure actual light output (watts measure energy use):

• 40W incandescent equivalent: ~450 lumens
• 60W equivalent: ~800 lumens
• 75W equivalent: ~1100 lumens
• 100W equivalent: ~1600 lumens

Color Temperature (Kelvin)

Color temperature affects the "feel" of light:

• 2700K (Soft White): Warm, yellowish—similar to incandescent
• 3000K (Warm White): Slightly cooler, still warm
• 4000K (Cool White): Neutral, clear light
• 5000K+ (Daylight): Blue-white, energizing

For living spaces, most people prefer 2700K-3000K. For task areas, 3500K-4000K works well.

Dimming Compatibility

• Not all LEDs are dimmable—check the package
• Dimmable LEDs cost slightly more
• May not work with all dimmer switches (some need LED-compatible dimmers)

Smart Lighting

Smart Bulbs

LED bulbs with wireless control capabilities:

• Control via app or voice assistant
• Schedule on/off times automatically
• Dim without special switches
• Some offer color-changing options

Smart Switches

Replace the switch instead of the bulb:

• Works with any bulb
• Scheduling and remote control
• May require neutral wire (not all apartments have this)
• Typically requires landlord permission

Energy Benefits

• Scheduling ensures lights turn off when you're away
• Remote control lets you turn off lights you forgot
• Motion-sensing modes available

Lighting Habits

The Basics

• Turn off lights when leaving a room
• Use natural light during the day
• Open blinds/curtains in daytime

Task Lighting

Light specific areas rather than whole rooms:

• Reading lamp instead of overhead light
• Desk lamp for work area
• Under-cabinet lights for kitchen tasks
• Lighter room colors reflect more light

Layered Lighting

• Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting
• Use only what you need for the activity
• Dimmers allow flexibility

For Renters

Swapping Bulbs

• Keep original bulbs to reinstall when moving
• Take your LEDs to your next place
• Label or photograph original bulb locations

Adding Lighting

• Plug-in lamps require no installation
• Battery-operated motion lights for closets
• LED strip lights with adhesive backing